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High hopes for this year's graduates
My son was among the group, which made the event even more special to me. Besides that, I was truly moved by the entire proceeding. As I watched each student receive his or her diploma, I couldn't help being transported back to May 19, 1981, when I walked across the stage at the high school I attended and crossed the threshold into adulthood. It was a scary, but also an exciting time in my life. I felt a true sense of accomplishment and at the same time a small bit of bewilderment at what the future might hold. As most of us, I have had my high and low points since that time. I have learned so much and that day seems almost like a dream now. All of us had such high hopes for our futures, which many have achieved. The world was wide open then as we decided what our next steps would be. Would we go to college, join the military or go straight into the workforce? The members of our class chose their paths and embarked on life's journey. The years have flown by since that time, with each one seemingly growing shorter and shorter. Careers have been built, families have been created and many of us from that class of 26 years ago are now watching as our children take that first step in shaping the rest of their lives. Perhaps the best advice I can offer to those embarking on their journey into the next phase of their lives, is to not be afraid to go after what you want. Be a little cautious, but by the same token, don't be afraid to take some risks. There are opportunities out there that await you, but if you don't aggressively pursue them, they may slip by. Another piece of advice I offer, as I approach middle age, is no matter what curves life throws you, keep following the road with a bright attitude. There will be times when you feel like just giving up, but don't let those feelings turn you away from your goals. With life experiences and age comes a sense of wisdom. Rejoice in your triumphs and embrace your failures. Examine your mistakes and learn from them, so that you don't repeat them. No matter what results your choices bring, be happy with yourself. This is one of the most important things I have learned through the years. If you aren't happy with yourself, you will never be successful. Don't measure your success by what you haven't done, measure it by how well you have done on the path you have chosen. We can't all be famous or rich, but we can be successful, not only in our careers, but in our relationships with others as well. Graduates, I congratulate you on reaching this point in your lives. It is a true accomplishment. Many of you have put in long hours of studying and worrying about exams to get to this point. Now that you have walked across that threshold, embrace what is to come and make the most of it. But, no matter how high you climb, don't forget your roots. Looking back at where you began is the best way to measure how far you have gone.
I am certain all of you will leave your mark on the world. In that moment you walked across that field and received your diploma, you left a mark in the hearts and minds of the parents who struggled to raise you. You carry our hopes and dreams with you on your journey as well.
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