WWW.MERIDIANSTAR.COM • CLARKDALE HIGH SCHOOL • GRADUATION 2020 • 11
PEYTON RIGDON
Salutatorian
Tonight is a very emotional night for all parties involved. In
life, there are going to be moments where you laugh so hard
your belly hurts, and then, there will be moments where the
tears never seem to stop falling. My time at Clarkdale has
been no different. I’ve definitely laughed more than I’ve
cried, but the tears hold more valuable lessons. As I talk,
remember that tears can mean many different things: tears
of joy, tears of sadness, tears of anger, and tears of fear. So
without further ado, here’s some of my most memorable melt
downs.
First: calculus. In the words of Troy Dukes, “here comes the
laugh cry.” I cried in this class at least once a week, and
that’s no exaggeration. No worries though, most of these
tears came from laughing until I cried. Remember that
school isn’t just about learning, be sure to have fun along
the way. I’ll remember the laughs in this class far before I
remember how to do implicit differentiation. Also a word of
advice, if you cry in front of Coach McMillian, Troy Dukes, or
Jakob Farmer, expect to be made fun of.
Coach Davis’s room. I’m pretty sure I cried for every. single.
senior song. Savor each moment, because they really do
fly by.
Math Smith’s room. This room reminds me of how loved I
really do feel by the teachers. While math is definitely one
of my least favorite subjects, I always looked forward to this
class. My junior year after the seniors’ last day, Mary sang
“Rivers and Roads” for us with the ukulele.
Little did I know then just how fast the next year would fly by.
The gym after the very last pep rally. I’ve been cheering on the
boys in Chris Mabry since 8th grade. To say I was sad the day
that ended would be an understatement. Underclassmen, go
all out for pep rallies, go to all the football games, and cheer
them on no matter what. You won’t regret it.
Chris Mabry field. My last year of soccer I got closer to all the
girls than I ever have been before. That team truly is a family. I learned what real dedication and hard work is: I learned that not only
should I work to better myself, but also those around me.
Ms. Rawson’s room during comp. I failed my very first college essay. At that moment, I felt more than defeated. However, high school
is full of defeat. You’re not always going to make the grade you want, but high school really is so much more than grades. Mrs. Scott
told AP Biology one day that it’s not just about the grades it’s about what you really learn. I think that’s true for both classes and life.
While there will be defeat in both, focus on the positive.
The lunch table. Again, this mostly consisted of me laughing until I cried. I truly cannot thank my friends enough for being there for
me throughout the last four years. For those of you who don’t know me, I have lots and lots of energy. Julie, Star, and Karsyn y’all
always kept me laughing, made the rough days a little better, and even dealt with me and all my hyperness. If you find good friends,
don’t lose them.
To say the least, I have some watery eyes. Life is full of emotions, and I’m choosing to embrace them. Before I finish I have to give
a few thank you’s. Jodee, thank you for being my best friend. You’ve stuck by my side since sixth grade, and there’s literally no way I’d
be here without you. Ps: I promise to always blow dry your hair in college. Mom and Dad, thank y’all for believing in my when I didn’t
believe in myself. Also, thank y’all for always letting me be myself, choose my own path, and supporting me no matter what. Twins,
thank y’all for not complaining too much when I made y’all help me study on the way to school, and when I sometimes made y’all late.
All the teachers, administrators, and faculty, y’all really are one of a kind. I can truthfully say that I never wished high school away.
I’m beyond thankful for everything you’ve all done for me not even just in high school but since kindergarten. To the rest of my family
and friends, thank you all for being there for me and loving me. Most of all, thank you for all the prayers. Y’all are the best. Lastly,
there is no way I’d be here without Jesus Christ. It is nothing short of a miracle that the worst procrastinator of all time is standing
here before you.
These are my final thoughts: Clarkdale has been my home for the last thirteen years. I’ve probably spent more time here than with
my family. With that being said, don’t just enjoy the moments, but make the moments. If you’re late to school, get breakfast. Throw
everyone a surprise party. Prank Coach Holliday.
Tailgate at the softball games. Tryout for a team. Join a club. You’re only in high school once so enjoy it.
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