I have just reread the letters concerning the high school graduations in Sunday’s edition. I don’t understand the big fuss about yelling and clapping for your loved one who has strived to complete 12 years of school.

If these young people were doing something wrong, we sure would be yelling and screaming so why not when they are accomplishing a milestone in their lives.

Why not take a little longer between names for a little applause? For all those wanting a “solemn” funeral-like ceremony, why not bring back the baccalaureate services we had when I was a graduate? I recall them being very solemn.

When my older sons graduated in 2004 and 2006, you bet I yelled. I was proud of them. They worked hard (one even graduated with honors), so why not let them hear Mom, Dad, even grandparents, yell, Lord knows I yelled enough to get them to the point of graduation.

Has anyone asked the graduating students what they would like? I’ll bet most would love to hear their names called from the stands and a little applause.

I say this is not a funeral, this is a celebration of a new milestone. You had best be prepared when my little ones graduate, I will yell for them, too.

Tina Rowland

Vicksburg