GRADUATION DAY

By: Mike Hall, BL Faculty 
 
On this your graduation day,
pause . . . reflect . . . remember
   those who have loved and nurtured you through these years,
   those who have provided structure and discipline so you could understand boundaries,
   those who have encouraged you through your trials and struggles,
   those who have always had your back when detractors came at you from all sides.
 
Remember the diploma you will soon hold in your hand is not the end of your learning;
it is the beginning.
For instruction will continue from your most demanding instructor – life.
The lessons you must learn along the next phase of your journey
   will determine success . . . or failure.
Don’t fear the challenges you meet;
they will help you grow as you travel along life’s twisting and winding road.
For learning occurs
   when you are removed from your comfort zone,
   when you are forced to test your abilities,
   when you suffer setbacks (they are not failures unless you quit the game),
   when you search for solutions which seem beyond your reach.
 
Remember you were not meant to make this journey alone.
Seek out those who can aid you as you navigate this path.
Surround yourself with mentors who will bring out your best;
you are the only one who will limit . . . you.
Develop true friendships where you both hold each other accountable in every way,
forging lifelong bonds which will withstand the onslaught
   of all the naysayers and doubters trying to deter you as you march along.
 
Remember to be a source of encouragement springing from the wellspring of hope.
Be part of the solution for a better day for all of humanity.
It is better to jump into the fray instead of passively watching from the side,
for true courage occurs when you are willing to ride into the teeth of the battle
   even though you are filled with fear and apprehension.
 
Remember
   love and kindness,
      respect and courtesy,
         compassion and empathy . . . will never go out of style.
 
Remember to squeeze every ounce of joy out of each day you are given,
for it is a blessing from God to be used for His good purposes.
So, enjoy your Earthly journey with every fiber in your soul
   until you reach the final bend in your road and . . .
      He reaches out His hand on your final graduation day.