Long ago, in ancient Greece, when formal education was for the very rich or the very
determined, a wise old teacher was approached by a group of noblemen.
"Our sons have completed their studies and it is time for them to return
to their homes and live in the style befitting their station. On the morrow, we will hold a great banquet in their honor and expect them to
be dressed in their finest garments."
The old man smilingly answered, "They will be there," and he added,
"appropriately dressed."
The following day, the banquet hall was filled with royalty and nobility
dressed in dazzling jewels and costly finery.
Then came the great moment when the students entered with their beloved
teacher. A startled cry arose from the crowds. For here were their young men
dressed, not in the garments of the noble, but in simple sackcloth robes, each
carrying a mortar board–the sign of a common workman.
"Let me explain," spoke the teacher as he raised his hands for
silence. "Your sons are dressed in the clothing of the mason, for their
destiny is to build."
"Some will build cities, some will build lives – perhaps one of them
may even build an empire. But all will be builders on the solid foundation of
knowledge."
And thus, over the years, the cap and gown have become a traditional part of
graduation, symbolizing the fact that our young men and women are builders –
of their own future – and the future of the world.
"To everything thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose
under heaven: A time to be born, and ....a time to build up" (Ecc.
3:3).
