The auditorium buzzed with the familiar joy of graduation day. Proud families leaned forward in their seats, cameras ready, waiting to capture one of life’s sweetest milestones. I clapped along with the rest, smiling as each student crossed the stage. Nothing felt unusual, at least not at first.
Then I rose from my seat.
A hush swept across the room as I walked toward the principal and quietly asked if I might say a few words. I wasn’t nervous, and I wasn’t hurt.
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