My Dad's Graduation

From a student in my Advanced English class

He, happy in the warm lights
wore a cap and gown
both brilliant black

In an open room
off-white with walnut trim
we were crowded, busy and noisy

I didn't know
why they were happy
they were, so I was too

I didn't understand
They used words like
"graduation" and "degree"

I didn't understand
all those years ago
that day changed my life