126.5 in reply to 126.4
5. Just a chance that maybe we'll find better days…
"Seeley Joseph Booth."
The whole class erupts in a giant cheer as his name is read. He smiles as he accepts his diploma. He gives a humble wave to the audience before quietly taking his seat.
He can't believe this is finally happening. Graduation. It was time to be a man and be on his own.
Afterward there are pictures and congratulations from everyone there. Seeley looks around and smiles at the scene in front of him. High school was his savior. He was popular and athletic. The teachers all loved him, though he wasn't the best student, he was definitely respectful.
He was going into the Army. His recruiter became like a father to him and he was excited to go. He had six weeks until boot camp and he could not wait to leave.
Seeley felt guilty for leaving his mother and brother, but he had to get out. Even though the Army was something that could get him killed, it was better than staying here.
He smiled when he saw his grandfather walk slowly towards him. He took the old man by the arm and tried to offer him a seat.
"No Seeley, let's go for a walk." Seeley nodded and guided his grandfather away from the crowd.
"So Pops, I just want to tell you-" Seeley was interrupted by a hand in the air.
"Seeley, I think that you are a remarkable young man. What you have done with yourself, even what you have been through, defines who you are going to be as a man. And you will be a great one." His grandfather put his hand on his shoulder.
"I couldn't have done it without you." Seeley looked down at the ground. He felt his grandfather grab his hand and place something in it. Seeley opened his hand and found a gold chain with a pendent on it.
"It's Saint Christopher. He will keep you safe, while you are away from us."
Seeley smiled and placed it around his neck. He reached over and pulled the old man into a hug.
"Thank you. For everything."
Seeley wiped a tear out of his eye when he saw his grandfather do the same.
He hated to leave his grandfather, but he knew it was his time. Seeley walked with him and talked about his plans for the future.
He knew that he would soon see, better days.