Dear Graduate

It's that time of the year when everywhere you look, someone's in a cap and gown, crossing a stage to collect a diploma, signifying the end of one chapter and the beginning of a new one.  Three special young people from our church were celebrated recently as they graduated from high school and moved on to the next chapters in their lives.  Each has chosen to go to school to pursue more education in order to fulfill their dreams.  As they graduate, I have these words for them:  Be prepared to learn at every stage of life.  The collection of a diploma is truly the beginning of many additional important lessons that will come your way.  Don't be afraid to pursue your dreams.  Others will have grand ideas for you, but only the small wise voice inside of you will know your passions.  Pursue those passions so that you can reach the greatest potential that was meant for you.  As you move along life's journey, always remember to be kind.  There will be rewards of many types that will come to you -- new jobs, career advancements, bonuses and the like -- but taking the time to be kind to everyone, even when it's downright hard, will give you some of the greatest satisfaction and happiness.  Remember to be grateful along the way.  It's so easy to get caught up in worries, concerns and what-ifs, but they hold little power over your path or destiny when you stop to be grateful for what you already have.  Am I any kind of sage for imparting these tidbits?  No, I've just lived a while.  And during those years, life has taught me that the lessons will never end, we all carry dreams in our hearts, our passions tell us who we really are, being remembered for our kindness means more than any accolade, and being grateful makes every today a gift to be cherished.  Happy graduation!