Missed It

After 7 long years of persistent poking, I finally managed to complete my Master of Church Music degree. Concert service was in the spring, comprehensive exams and orals accomplished in June, dissertation approved and submitted late summer. At long last I have completed the requirements and earned the degree. Commencement was today.

I had made all the arrangements to go, ordered my gown and hood, filled out the requisite forms. But the closer I got to the date, the more I realized that it wasn't going to happen. My energy levels are not quite where they need to be, I am dealing with 3 more broken teeth, I have had to pay for some unexpected things and my budget is just too tight.

With so many potential roadblocks, I just didn't have the oomph to undertake the journey. Seems to be my MO. I missed my graduation for my Master of Library Science degree too - well I should say I attended that virtually. Still, its not the same as being there.

Reluctantly I emailed my advisers and told them I would not be coming. They both sent encouraging emails of support and asked me to stay in touch, which I will. I suppose the ceremony is sort of anti-climactic in a way because the real work, the continued planning of the dvd for cancer patients puts to use much of what I have learned and experienced during my program.


Instead, I spent the day at home resting and spending time with Drew. We did mail a box to North Carolina for Christmas but other than that, just took it easy. I was supposed to see the dentist, but he cancelled. Just as well. I am not up to having bare roots pulled out of my head today.