Graduations

Graduations are generally happy times of celebration. Graduates have a feeling of accomplishment and anticipation. Parents rejoice and take pride in their children's achievements. But graduations, whether from grade school, high school, or college are just beginnings on the journey of life. In a 100-yard race, they are just the first few laps. There is so much more ahead, so many detours and unexpected turns. Hopefully, graduates have the preparation they need and enough support along the way to reach their goal. Some college graduates know exactly what they want to do and others are still searching. There will be surprises and disappointments as they continue their journey.
Commencement speeches are mostly forgotten in the excitement of the day. But if I were to offer graduates advice, I would tell them three things: be true to yourself; be generous with your gifts and talents; and be forgiving of yourself and others. Being true to yourself gives you integrity and character. Sharing your gifts will keep you from being self-centered and endear you to others. Learning to forgive makes us realize that we are all imperfect and in need of mercy. Sometimes I worry that young people today have so much and expect so much they will not appreciate all their opportunities. But I  pray that they will be successful and happy in whatever they choose to do with their lives.