A Toast to the Frosh of 2005

It’s that time of the year again! Yesterday as I entered Eaton Center I heard shouts and cheers and applause. As I looked around for the source of the din, a middle-aged man smilingly said to me ” It’s those university kids. They were here yesterday as well.” A mix of emotions welled up in me in an instant… a part of me immediately thought of my own orientation experience in fall ’98, another part of me smiled at the energy and exuberance enamating from that rowdy bunch, and yet another part of me thought how strange and poignant to hear someone refer to them as “those university kids” when talking to me. Yes, I’ve crossed the bridge a few years ago, but still being a student at university and having so many undergrad friends I never really felt ‘othered’. Then again, the incoming frosh are all of 18 yrs old this year. Ah to be 18 again… the world at your door-step… a new chapter of life about to begin in university. New experiences awaiting, endless possibilities to be explored and endless energy abounding. I envy them a little… ok, a lot. Here’s to the Frosh of 2005… may they have a wonderful start to their 4 years of university life. May they savour the lessons that life will offer them and find the courage to face the challenges and pain that often accompany growth. Above all, may they have hope and passion as they cross the threshold into young adulthood. And while at a time in life when time seems to be in abundance, may they appreciate the preciousness of time and never fail to seize each moment and live it to the fullest!