A Thorn In Their Side

****

Four years later.

‘Oh, how the years have flown by,’ I thought to myself as I mounted the podium to give my speech.

As I stepped onto the graduation hall's stage, I couldn't help but marvel at how quickly the past four years had passed.

I was dressed in a flowing graduation gown, and had my cap perched atop my head.

I had a colorful sash raped around my neck, and I felt a surge of pride and nostalgia.

The auditorium was filled with excited chatter and anticipation, as my fellow graduates, their families, and friends eagerly awaited my speech.

The sea of faces in the crowd seemed to blur together, but I could pick out the beaming faces of Michael, Emily, and other loved ones who had come to support me on this momentous day.

I approached the podium, and adjusted the microphone.

I cleared my throat as I prepared to address the audience.

Taking a deep breath, I began, "Standing here today, surrounded by my peers and loved ones, I am filled with gratitude and a sense of accomplishme