The Class of 1970 is widely regarded as the brightest and best of all who passed through the halls of Unadilla High School. That’s not just my opinion. I took a poll at our October reunion. It’s a blessing when you feel that way about your classmates.

Fifty-five years after graduation our favorite memories remain fresh. They are also increasingly subject to embellishment, further enhancing recollections of yesteryears. 

Pinehurst Elementary gave me the basics, then I transferred to Unadilla for the fourth grade. It only took one recess to make new friends. I was pretty fast back then, and a game of tag helped cement my acceptance.

Stories from our teenage years now remind me of God’s mercy. When I hear of youthful tragedies, I realize that could have been the outcome on many occasions. I believe the prayers of our parents helped, even when we were unaware. Luck may have played a role at times, but I’m convinced divine intervention deserves much of the credit.

We only had nine of our class attend the outdoor picnic, all of them boys. Another joined us who had repeated the eighth grade because his father, Unadilla’s principal and football coach, suggested it. Bland was headed to the ninth-grade classroom when his dad turned him around.

Bland was an exceptional athlete, and Coach Brooks wanted him to mature another year before high school. I shared at our reunion that I offered to stay back with him for the sake of the Blue Devils’ athletic program. Coach said if I repeated the eighth grade three times he thought I could make the B-Team. I joined the F.F.A. String Band instead.

Smitty, Don, David, Joe, Robbie, Thomas, and Wayne Godfrey were there. We were all glad to see each other, but the one we most enjoyed spending time with was Johnny Moore.

Johnny has been dealing with cancer for several years. The treatment options are all used up. Pound for pound he’s one of the toughest guys I’ve ever known, but also one of the best. No one is more loved or respected among our group. 

As he and Marcia visited with old friends a lot of stories began, “Do you remember the time Johnny…….” Rather than bemoaning his current situation, he helped us laugh about lighthearted moments of long ago. Even at this late hour he has the same quick wit and mischievous smile we’ve known since childhood.

Don offered an uplifting prayer as we gathered around Johnny and Marcia. Our friend is confident where he’s headed, an assurance that’s reflected in his attitude.

He was in their car when I went to Marcia’s side to say goodbye. She got out and said Johnny wanted to tell me something. “Thank you for making it easy,” he said. I’m grateful for that tender moment, but the truth is Johnny made it easy for us. That’s the kind of guy he is. 

Old stories with happy endings reminded me of God’s past mercies. And the warm smile of a friend with challenging circumstances reminded me those mercies are new every morning.  

The Class of 1970 may not have really been the brightest and best of all who have graduated from Unadilla High School, but one thing I can say with certainty. It’s a blessing when you feel that way about your classmates.