“Every end is a new beginning”

— Proverb

Dear Zachary,

Tonight, you gave your last drama performance at Whitford Middle School.

Zachary, as Professor Plum in Clue. Your last play at Whitford.

You came into 6th grade nearly three years ago a quiet kid, and much to our surprise and delight, immediately signed up for the Alice In Wonderland play. You were a sheep and we were proud.

In the intervening time, you have been Father Christmas in the Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe, Frederick in the Sound of Music, The Clown With the Tearaway Face in A Nightmare Before Christmas, Grandpa Joe in Willie Wonka, the inventor Maurice, Belle’s father, in Beauty and the Beast.

Tonight, you ended your middle school drama career as Professor Plum in Clue, by laying on the stage floor with your cast mates, shot dead by Wadsworth in the dramatically funny final scene. The audience roared.

In a few months, our quiet kid with a quirky sense of humor and a sharp mind will move on to high school. What will you do? Maybe you’ll take up a play or two … or seven. Or maybe, you’ll surprise us again by getting involved in something brand new. Whatever you decide, you’re going to be great!

I know it’s sad that this is an ending, but every story comes to an end. Without the endings though, there wouldn’t be any beginnings. Every story needs a beginning and an ending to be complete. And your next story is going to be even better.

I think Dr. Seuss put it best,

“Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.”

Proudly and with love,

Your Mom and Dad