Finality.

We had seats in the shade and the wind threatened everyone's propriety. It was chilly. The class president talked about her sorority experience. The commencement speaker, some ad executive, talked about the importance of personal branding. He was not interesting. We went to stand in the marginally-warmer sunlight.

I had consumed a small yogurt and some dry Cheerios at seven that morning and had the detached, instantly nostalgic feeling that comes from eating too little. We walked to my sister's degree presentation--College of Visual and Performing Arts--and I looked at the sundresses. All the dancers accepted their diplomas barefoot.

Eventually we went out to eat. Abigail's boyfriend, Will, was with us. He's an anthropology/archaeology major, lackadaisical and bearded, and he suits my sister. Paying attention to the conversation took up most of my energy. We ordered all of the desserts, shifting them around the table like a game of musical delicious.

On the way home I looked out my window and just...gaped. Giant sky, a few clouds. Rolling green fields. Red barns and silos that looked so small. Bits of forest, Blue Ridge in the background. Sometimes this place is so beautiful it makes me want to weep. I didn't take a picture, but maybe it's better that way.