It was my final year in secondary school, and our graduation ceremony was drawing near. While my classmates were preparing with excitement, buying new clothes and getting set for the event, I had already made up my mind not to attend. My parents didn’t have the money for a new dress or shoes, and I couldn’t afford the payments others had made for the occasion. Everything discouraged me, so I stayed home, telling myself the celebration wasn’t meant for me.
On the morning of the ceremony, I went about my normal chores. I remember vividly sitting with a tray of beans, picking out stones for breakfast preparation. Little did I know that I was the very person the school was waiting for. The program had already started, but when I didn’t show up, teachers and students began searching for me. My closest friend explained that I had said I wasn’t coming. They tried contacting my parents and it wasn't going through. Somehow, they reached my pastor(which I don't know how till today) who directed them to church to meet one woman who stays there to further direct them to my place. The woman only directed them to a member who knew my place well. So they finally found my little house.
I was shocked and embarrassed to see my teachers at my doorstep. But they encouraged me to prepare quickly, assuring me that I was going to be honoured. I had nothing to wear but my school uniform. Yet on getting there, one of my classmates rushed home and brought me her dress and shoes. I put them on, received my graduation gown (though I hadn’t paid for it), and joined the ceremony.
When the awards were announced, my name was called for Best in Art and Best in English. I timidly walked up to receive them, thinking that was all. Then, to my greatest surprise, my name echoed again, this time for the Overall Best Student. The whole hall erupted in applause. My classmates surrounded me afterwards, taking pictures, congratulating me, and showering me with hugs.
I was given three breakable plates as prizes, and one woman even promised to sponsor my first semester if I gained admission into the university that year.
At the end of the day, I returned the borrowed clothes, wore my school uniform again, and went home with a heart overflowing with joy. My parents were so proud when I told them. That day remains the most unforgettable moment of my school life.
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