The Ties that Bind  

by Luke Feely

50 Years ago, or so, we huddled as a class 
With caps and gowns and sheepskins on the football field grass. 

And the well-wishers said “Spread your wings. Fly. Go find your voice.” 
So we headed toward the future ‘cuz we didn’t have a choice.  

And by brains, or style, or luck, or guile, we got to where we are. 
And our roads are long and varied.  But we haven’t gone so far  

That now and then, unscheduled, a memory unwinds 
And images from high school go – marauding through our minds.  

When we had extra energy. When hair was where it ought to be, 
Skin was tight, eyes were bright, foolishness was fun, 
And decisions that were mostly wrong – could mostly be undone. 

We gave it up for fam’lies, debts, obligations, work. 
And we did it voluntarily.  Could be life’s greatest quirk. 

Now we celebrate a lesser quirk which has us here tonight. 
Where we check in with each other, and hope things are alright. 

And sit, and laugh or cringe, while spinning yarns of yesteryear. 
And pause and think about our friends no longer here.  

These periodic check-ins are proper, right, and good. 
‘Cuz we all helped to launch each other into adulthood.  

When reunion’s over; future’s once more baying, 
Sallie forth, soldier on (or chose another saying)  

With thanks for boosters, coaches, teachers, who helped us toward our graying. 
And pleasant thoughts of Dedham High.  Long may they be playing. 

And spin as many yarns as you can find. 
‘Cuz the yarns inside the mind…
are the ties that bind.