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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Perfect balance

Nicole South St. Michael's Academy

St. Michael’s Class of 2005 is quirky, predictable, and sometimes downright pleasant to be around. Even though there are only 12 of us, we all hum our own tunes and walk to our own beat, creating an individual rhythm for our lives. But somehow, all those separate tunes and beats form a delightfully discordant whole. We are each our own instruments with a unique sound and shape which, when put together, composes a great orchestra. From the blare of the boisterous trumpets to the soft vibration of the violins, we each add a special sound to the production.

Although we find ourselves together as a class at St. Michael’s, it’s amazing to note the varied backgrounds of each member. Whether we live in Canada, Ohio or Washington, we’ve all seemed to make it back every school year ready to dive head first into our academics. The seniors have a perfect balance of instruments. There are the flutes to keep it light and happy in moments of distress. They are the drums who save the day and make the teachers laugh when we are supposed to be getting in trouble. There are the thoughtful cellos who suddenly open up to share a brilliant insight into themselves and then just as quickly cover back up again. And finally there are the trombones who aren’t afraid to say what they think, no matter who’s listening. And perhaps no one is listening, which doesn’t trouble them at all.

We all have our good and bad attributes, but the truly awesome thing is that we round each other out. All our sharp and flat notes are covered up by those around us. This allows our music to resonate, without fear of being different or out of place.

Because of how colorful we are, we have a sense of liberty that does not restrain individuality or threaten creativity. We stand tall and are proud of who we are and what we stand for.

As the year comes to a close we don’t plan to stop spreading our music but to resound to the world that is waiting for us. Our faith is our march and our ethics our music. As we all move on to college and jobs, we will continue all with the same beat, perhaps inspiring others to take up their own instruments and play along with us.