Hallelujah. That was the moment that had us all in tears. Of all the accomplishments of this year's TBB graduates, singing a song is, perhaps, the least remarkable. Yet, when they lifted their voices during the graduation ceremony on May 9th, it could not have been a more powerful symbol of their accomplishments and commitments.

It was an inspiring weekend for all.  Roxbury Latin, our gracious hosts in Boston, MA, offered a fabulous facility for bringing together many of the students, families, friends, and alumni that make up the TBB community.  This year's graduates shared their incredible Presentations of Learning. Through speeches and media they highlighted the assumptions they challenged and questions they raised over the course of the program. The TBB Co-Founders and Board President spoke at various moments throughout the weekend, recognizing how the dedication, commitment, and support of each member of the community makes TBB possible. Each of these events left families and friends awed by the poise, vision, and knowledge of the 2009-10 TBB graduates. There was a collective appreciation for the mission of TBB and its value in the lives of our students, families, and the greater society. 

 
Then the students sang.

 
For those unfamiliar with Rufus Wainwright's "Hallelujah", it is not the majestic "Hallelujah Chorus" of Handel. It is not about elation or jubilant celebration. Rather, it is soulful and melancholy. It recognizes that our world is composed of overwhelmingly simple beauty and complex human challenges. 

 
Sitting in the audience listening to their collective voices fill the hall, the symbolism of the moment was not lost. These students, their families, the Program Leaders, the host communities abroad, and so many others committed themselves to helping the students recognize the simple beauties in our world while confronting its challenges. Their POLs spoke of hope in the lives of South Africans living with AIDS, visions for a more sustainable relationship between humans and the environment, and the potential of clear and critical thought that comes from quality education. It was a moment when the hall was filled with an awareness of the challenges ahead and the ability of this group of students to confront them with the consciousness and understanding needed to pursue proactive change. There may not have been a dry eye in the house.