For The Graduate

Although I’ve noticed the graduation cap and gown hanging in my daughter’s closet on those few occasions when I invade her private space, nothing brought her imminent graduation home so vividly as an awards night ceremony where her classmates were honored for their high school achievements.
A flood of images stirred from my memories. Most of these kids had been a part of Josie’s life since kindergarten (a few since preschool) and, therefore, a special part of my life as well.
At this threshold in their lives, they possess the facilities of youth and time, choice and flexibility, strength and potential; what could I give them that could make a difference as they get on with their adult lives?
Believing, like Solomon, that wisdom is the key and that having the presence of mind to recognize wisdom most important, I searched for current advice for graduates. Sue Morem, professional speaker and weekly columnist with Careerbuilder, has these thoughts:
Given the many options and opportunities available, you will likely have difficulty deciding which direction to take. You will rarely have time to check out everything that piques your interest.
Nothing you decide is meant to be a life sentence. Not everyone makes a living in his or her chosen field. You may change your course of study or your job later in life. Life is about growth and change.
It is unlikely that you will always make the right decisions, no matter how hard you try. Everyone makes mistakes and so will you. Make the mistake count by learning from it.
Life is an adventure and the thrill lies in the discovery of the unknown. Morem says, “If you hit what seems like a roadblock, think of it as a detour instead. And, if you realize the direction in which you are headed is not right, look for another route and change direction.”
With more professional advice, Maggie Craddock, author of The Authentic Career; Following the Path of Self-Discovery to Professional Fulfillment, offers these points:
You can’t be more successful than your self image allows you to be.
Your job security comes from knowing your authentic talents and how to apply them in a variety of different settings.
There is no more terrible price in life than giving up on your dreams.
In Craddock’s words, “Never forget that while your career is one of your most precious possessions, it is also your greatest gift to others. When you realize your own authentic potential, you are playing a vital part in our culture at all levels.”
Best wishes to all graduates!