Grads, it’s your time to shine.
This may sound like lecturing, but it’s also your time to celebrate responsibly.
As much as everyone wants to cut loose, it’s not a license to make irrational decisions. Too many have done that in the past and the consequences can be dire.
Chemainus has not been immune over the years like communities of all sizes experiencing tragedy during what’s supposed to be a happy occasion. It can happen in an instant under purely innocent circumstances as much as being reckless.
No amount of nonsense is worth the risk. If it seems like behaviour that doesn’t sit right, don’t do it.
Cars are always the biggest culprits. And mixing drinking and driving has long been at the root of the most distressing situations.
The good news is the younger generation is much more inclined or aware to take precautions than those of the past so that’s one step in the right direction. It’s as simple as never getting behind the wheel after having a few drinks and making the necessary arrangements for a ride to parties or get-togethers, as necessary, with a parent or adult chaperone.
Anyone would be happy to lend a hand if it means averting the potential for harm. Larger communities often have volunteers at the ready to handle such circumstances for grad parties or celebrations.
This is a transition time for young people into adulthood and the world of possibilities that lie ahead. One nonsensical decision can throw everything down the drain and scar families forever.
It’s happened before and will happen again, but fortunately we’ve learned some things over the years that have made these incidents fewer and farther between.
We all want these to be memorable times for the Class of 2022 at Chemainus Secondary School, not scarred by some preventable incident.
It’s always too late once something has happened so looking ahead and planning carefully is always a good idea.
The entire community wishes the grads the very best in future endeavours. Some will stick around, others will relocate far afield, but their hearts will always remain here and we hope their backgrounds will create a bright future.
