Evelyn Lozada and Carl Crawford had a proud parent moment this week.
The former couple came together on Wednesday to support their son, Carl Crawford Jr., as he participated in his school’s Candle Lighting Ceremony, a rite of passage for sixth-grade students as they transition from Lower School to Middle School.
Held at the end of the academic year, the ceremony gives students an opportunity to reflect on their experiences through personal “I Am” poems.
After the event, Lozada shared a video on Instagram that showed Carl Jr. posing with his mom, dad, and big sister Shaniece Hairston. The clip also showed the graduate taking the stage to read part of the poem he wrote for the occasion.
In the caption, Evelyn Lozada celebrated her son’s accomplishment and shared a message for him.
“Candle Lighting Ceremony marked the end of lower campus and the beginning of a new chapter,” she wrote.
“@therealcarlleocrawford we are so proud of your dedication to both sports and school, but even more proud of the person you are. The greatest compliment we receive is hearing what a kind friend and great kid you are.”
She continued, “Never lose your big personality, your unfiltered self, and the spark that makes you uniquely you. We can’t wait to see what upper campus has in store for you.”
“Dream big, work hard, and know Mom & Dad love you so much.”
During his speech, Carl Jr. reflected on some of the experiences that have shaped him so far and the goals he hopes to accomplish in the future.
“I am from watching my brother play in his first MLB game in Philadelphia with all my friends and family, feeling nervous and excited at the same time, to now riding my electric dirt bike every chance I get, to one day attending the upper campus, having new freedom and the opportunity to play for the Sierra Canyon baseball team,” he said.
He concluded the poem by saying, “I am Carl Leo Crawford.”
