Ever attended a pre-school graduation? Too cute, or too much?
Case in point: Guess who I ran into at such a ceremony this week? None other than my former Grammar School principal, Mr. Alfred Leevy. ‘Sir’ denied any knowledge that our class would sneak naughty changes in wording of the school song ‘in his honour.’ He did recall however, that we were a particularly troublesome bunch. Included in the mix were the likes of, Simpson Roberts, Imani ‘Mother Cake’ Shaw, Derek Angol, Lindel Williams, Felix Wilson, Felix Henderson and of course, ‘Double L’ himself!
But I digress already…
Anyway, I was almost trampled by gushing Moms – their camera flashes making la-fimay! Grandparents themselves would not be denied either. They would spare no excess to ensure this is a memorable moment in the life of the family. Dads tried to hold back, chests puffed with pride. Can you see the words scribbled in the bubble above their heads? “Yeah…that’s my little princess” or “That’s my boy; yes, the one pulling the little girl’s braids.” It is truly a time of unfettered hope despite the doom and gloom that so easily besets us.
You see, life is a never-ending series of graduations from one stage to the next.Was it not the great English poet John Keats who said, “A thing of beauty is a joy forever?” From preschool to retirement and milestone anniversary celebrations, there is this irrepressible need to capture the beauty of such occasions for future generations. Throw in the weddings, holiday trips and reunion travels so common in this summer season and every one of us will find it really hard not to be swept up at some point into the beloved community.
Prom
Back then, graduation was just a barely modified final general assembly. Perhaps the most fun our class had was what we did afterward with chicken feet specimens for our biology O level exams. (Don’t you dare tell Mr. Leevy!) Today however, it’s all about joy to the group. Everyone cannot be valedictorian or pluck prizes. However, for everyone it is an incredible moment bonding, knowing that many will go off on separate paths. Some friends literally may never be seen again – except on Facebook.
The climax, then, of graduation really becomes the prom. For many, this is their first ‘gig’ – a giddy time to apply all that parental advice on how to treat or be treated by your date. It is an event of enormous anticipation where each can be a star and a high premium is placed on looking good.
Kendra
We would all agree that acne is perhaps the major self-confidence thief among the high school and college aged graduates. That simply should not be. Kendra’s talent is making one feel beautiful using the latest technologies in medical esthetics. Such an art is deeply rooted in the history of cosmetology from the beauty secrets of Nubian, Ethiopian and Egyptian royalty.
Kendra consults on Micro-D skin care
First, she taps into the generous local wisdom from Zion: showing how to use sugar with coconut oil or coffee for exfoliation; or the secrets of applying christophine juice to suppress active acne. If more intensive therapy is needed, she arranges a seamless transition to antibiotics and prescription topical astringents. No one should ever suffer needlessly with severe acne scarring. The final solution is always Accutane, the most powerful and effective drug for strict treatment.
However, the real ace up Kendra’s sleeve is Microdermabrasion. It is a medical procedure that smoothes the skin by removing the old top layer of cells. This freshens and rejuvenates, allowing baby-like skin to shine through. It is a non-surgical technique that recently crossed over from Hollywood to the mainstream that few know is available in Dominica.
Kendra makes small gentle swipes across the face using a diamond-tipped wand connected to constant suction. There may be slight tingle, but no discomfort. Her several clients never cease to be amazed by the stuff removed in the filter at the end of the procedure.
Microdermabrasion comes in handy for graduations later in life as well. In times past, I would dismiss all this as contributing nothing to ‘the struggle.’However,the truth is that with passing years, there is a growing need to reduce fine wrinkles and discoloration. This technique bestows on any complexion a younger-appearing, more radiant glow. Incidentally, guys pamper themselves with Micro-D as well, though they tend to be more secretive about it.
Limited Resources
At the rate that we are going, we may well get to the point of having formal graduations right out of nursery! Who knows? Infants with their pacifiers will get A+ for dribbling, C+ for cooing, and let’s say, a B diaper change. Babies attired in tiny caps and gowns will receive mini certificates from their paediatricians. Next to ward sister and incubator, they will pose for pics in the tender embrace of mommy’s bosoms.
Okay, that definitely would be taking it too far. After all, there would still be christening/dedication to come. No doubt there would be the same hue and cry about commercialism: Why not just thank the Almighty for blessing us with a baby, for building a hedge around our child, and simply move on. But check the world news and see the kind awful pursuits into which people of other lands invest their passions. Only then will we really reflect on the lyrics of ‘How sweet to hold a new-born baby, and feel the pride and joy he gives.’ This certainly goes for pre-schoolers as well -and any graduate for that matter.
‘Tis the season! Fight other fevers. Indulge in this one. It’s their time, a truly precious time for anyone deserving to look and feel their very best.
Kendra Lockhart is a graduate of the Dominica State College with a special interest in skin care. She can be reached at 440-9313.
Dr. Sam Christian is a general surgeon and acupuncturist who manages the Urgent Care at 137 Bath Road. He is Medical Officer of the Dominica Cadet Corps and Medical Advisor of the Dominica Cancer Society. He can be reached at 613-8345 or [email protected]
no answer from the number
Is she located here?
lots of young individuals are suffering from this acne problem world wide. its good to know that results can be taken here in Dominica to help dealt with it naturally and medically.
Thanks Doc ! you did it again. another interesting article . Kendra is beautiful!
Dr. Christian, this is excellent form of advertisement for Kendra.
) for all, I read where Our Lord Jesus Christ appeared to someone. During his message, he said, “I will make you beautiful.” I also read where the Mother of God, the Ever Blessed Virgin Mary made a similar statement to a visionary. I have passed this on as I inform those who I speak to when the opportunity presents itself, this means with godly qualities/virtues as stated and more . . . the face will look beautiful not because one is beautiful but because of how well they pay God homage, lend a helpful hand, i.e., to perform deeds of love in that godly manner. In the end, it will show on their face even though they are not aware of it. Their faces will shine. They must take care to keep up the godliness. This will also determine how well they age.
Congratulations Kendra. Good luck and success in your endeavor.
We have heard of facials of different sorts. Especially these days, the talk is now about diet, vegan, organic.
I have accessed some health Websites and came across Lemon, drinking lemon juice/water and how much of it to drink with water, first thing in the morning which cleanses the body; also good for the complexion.
I was amazed the amount of health information of every sort there is on the Internet in addition to making our own home concoction according to the ingredients as stated.
While trying to make ourselves look beautiful, young and glowing, a few glasses of water is also necessary including eating the right types of foods, for breakfast, lunch and dinner. We must always remember that eating a lot and more are not necessary, just a little of this and that with fruits. Believe me, this also helps to keep healthy and to have a glowing skin, especially on the face.
What is more Dr. Christian, what is imbedded in the heart also projects on our faces. You should know what this means. Being a godly happy, kind, loving, cheerful, helpful and peaceful person helps to make the face glow.
A little secret (not so secret
Sometime ago I attended a Catholic prayerful gathering. The host and celebrant was an Indian Trinidadian Priest who would occasionally visit Toronto and conduct retreats. He is a convert to Catholicism. He told of this story. When I heard he was visiting, that specific week I attended every retreat he gave in Churches throughout the City. His sermons were out of this world.
If I were in D/ca I would not be against visiting her parlor/office.
The last time I was in D/ca I saw him. We had a good conversation. If the good Lord wills, when I return I have to challenge him on a religious matter. 
What a happy occasion and to also receive his blessing. At break time, one T/dadian person who was present looked at me and said “Your face is glowing!” The person stated more. I was surprised. Did not realize that but was happy to hear of it. At that time there was reason that this was mentioned to me.
This is not to exalt myself or seek compliments but as we give to the Lord, in this genuine manner (He cannot be deceived), going out of our way to be helpful to those in need and also when the occasion calls for it, the Lord Himself makes that person look beautiful/ handsome with a glowing face.
After all is said and done, we do have to take care of ourselves, a proper diet and yes, get some help from professionals as Kendra who will put the finishing touches.
I am pleased to know that D/ca has progressed to this point and D/cans can obtain many products and help for their health. facial and otherwise. In this case, it does not appear to be behind time. That is some progress with more to come.
If you ever see Alfred Leevy, tell him someone said hello. Give him cause to remain in suspense.
Dr. Christian, keep up the good work. I hope your cancer patients of all observe good nutrition so that they probably could be healed. With your expertise, you will help them. God bless!
I remember that!
The mansion he made was perfect
Nor could it be otherwise
He from his deep foundation
Made SLEEPY LOSE HIS patience
A school for human eyes.
‘Sleepy’ is what we use to call Mr. Leevy. That could get you in a lot of trouble those days.
After the exam, we persuaded the invigilator to give us the chicken feet to make a braf! Graduation as a rite of passage was what we made it. Kids have so good theses days. It’s nice to see parents get so involved. Of course, social media makes it a completely different story.
Thanks for stirring up those ‘old boys’ memories, Dr. Sam!
WOW! Doc you get an “A” for originality and making us aware of a broad area of medical care . Good to see pretty Ms Lockhart doing facials in a natural way and using local products. We’ll done guys.