Final Hours Until Passing Week
One winter’s evening a soothing warm intellectual breeze gripped the campus known as Southern Dominican Catholic University when all was quiet except in the library where the lights were gleaming and guiding the future through knowledge being memorized.
Freshman Biff Book sat very quietly looking up to the Sunday evening clock which said closing time was getting near and the examination bells will soon be ringing.
“I am ready for tomorrow,” he mumbled snapping the textbook shut after changing its black and white pages utilizing colorful study markers to highlight important details to be recited.
It was a quick trip down the elevator then outside into the Miami Shores air relaxing Biff wearing summer like shorts despite heading into uncharted educational waters.
Straight in front palm trees lined the postcard presentation with holiday brightness reminding Biff once finals ended shopping was the next priority task.
Keeping a respectable pace Biff decided to stop off for a rest inside the chapel anchoring the atmosphere that challenged weakness using mindful strength. As was tradition an easily negotiated entry welcomed Biff to collect thoughts.
Clasping hands while kneeling the student who was finding his way started a conversation in the silent and private fashion removing any distraction. Spiritually transmitting a request to be able to regurgitate information that was explained during lectures throughout the fall Biff conjured up faith.
Suddenly, another tranquil flurry made its way into the religious theater filled with artistic interpretive images, “my son, do not worry about what you fill in the dots that go into the computer. Feel secure in yourself that the concepts that you were introduced to are understood.”
Opening his eyes peering around Biff could not figure out where the voice came from but heeded the message.
“I have to pass these classes or else all I will hear on New Year’s Day will be ‘how much money I will need to retake the courses’,” Biff pondered reflecting about the cross where the man was being tortured for doing something those in power considered wrong.
Once again, the commentary could be heard in Biff’s mind, “relax the answers will come to you and they will be correct; all you have to do is be confident that you know what is right.”
Finding energy Biff stood up and gathered his belongings before reentering life’s battle walking towards a sophomoric attitude having collegiate experience in his eyes.
Watching from the distance two nuns observed, minding their peace despite having a concern for the youth.
“Such a tough week this is, Sister Laura,” Sister Judie mentioned.
“Yes, for three and a half months they have been working together and now it’s time for assessments,” Sister Laura responded.
“Before the festive time of Christmas?”
“Yes, Sister Judie, prior to the new birth they will realize something pass or fail,” Sister Laura submitted her wisdom, “remember unlike damaging defeat in the real world, here you can redo or repeat, then during the process they will become mature.”
“That is true,” Sister Judie agreed, “and if they are successful?”
“Well hopefully, they will remember these things when it counts.”
Sister Laura looked at Sister Judie and clarified, “so they do not win Trivial Pursuit that night.”
“And I suppose they can always google it these days,” Sister Judie suggested.
“Look if they show up, are honest, and give a true earnest try then they will achieve academically,” Sister Laura commented.
“Well, Christmas is the season of giving good grades,” Sister Laura paused, “to those who believe.”
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