Velada 2014: We are inspired; we are home

There is a beautiful tradition that brings a loving smile into the hearts of Assumption graduates year after year. This is called the velada, a joyous homecoming celebration that creates immense excitement for the entire Assumption community.

We are very grateful to this year’s hosts, the gracious Silver jubilarians of Assumption high school 1989. These diverse women of action have proven through individual initiatives and collective efforts on countless occasions how their Assumption education has inspired them to heed the call of those in need. Filled with gratitude to God for all they have been given, they never cease to love, to serve, to never say, “we have done enough.”  These sweet, dedicated ladies inspired nine jewel batches to unite, come home to their beloved Assumption, eager to present a remarkable performance at the Mother Rose Auditorium.

This year is an extra-special year for me because I belong to the high school class of 1979 Jade jubilarians, a group of strong-willed yet compassionate women whose deep friendships nurtured through the years have given us so much reason to celebrate. It was an absolute joy to bond with the batch mates I love, put on our dancing boots and push ourselves to the limit.

It was also an honor to celebrate with the Diamond batch high school class of 1954, lovable mothers of my batch mates. These women, who have built the sturdiest of friendships, having sustained a support system for 60 wonderful years, continue to inspire as they channel all their energies into uplifting the lives of 20 students of the Assumption Mission Schools in Baguio.

Under the loving gaze of Maribeth Bichara, our ace choreographer with a big heart, the Silver, Jade and Gold jubilarians each delivered a magnificent performance.

Truly this velada experience is one we shall all treasure for the rest of our lives.

(The other half of the velada program — with the Pearl, Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald, Gold and Blue Diamond jubilarians — will be continued in my next column.)

(Would love to hear from you at miladayjewels@yahoo.com.)