Graduation has arrived. It’s time to celebrate all that’s good and wonderful. For some parents the emotions associated with this event may resemble the opening of flood gates. From the graduate, you may hear shrieks of joy as they prepare to move on to the next big thing. But you may also be wondering, what’s next?
Whatever plans are in the making they’re most likely met with a mixture of happy and sad.
High school seniors all over the country are graduating over the next few weeks and they and their families are experiencing nostalgia, joy, sadness, excitement, reflection, pride, and a bit of anxiousness and uncertainty. Their current journey is coming to a close and a new adventure awaits.
What’s Next?
Maybe your graduate is unsure of what the next step is. Or maybe, they have everything planned to a tee. Regardless, families will gather, friends will celebrate and the diplomas are ready to be awarded. Commencement is a special occasion and worth every bit of celebratory frenzy.
There’s no greater feeling than being proud of your graduate and their accomplishments. It’s a worthy fete. So much so, that I will attend my 50th graduation on Saturday. If you haven’t figured it out already, I love all that pomp and circumstance stuff and I love to see students beam at what they’ve experienced and be super pumped about what’s to come.
Getting to this moment though has taken a huge amount of dedication, perseverance and patience. It’s been years of supporting your kids through the steps and stages, the hills and valleys, and the successes and setbacks. Lessons have been learned, adversity overcome, and yet, we continue to help them move forward with confidence and courage. That’s our role as parents and family members.
But, now what?
What Will the Future Look Like?
Give thanks to those who helped your sons and daughters throughout their journey. Enjoy your time together. Celebrate their successes. And encourage them to spread their wings and fly.
One of my all time favorite Scriptures that I cling to is Jeremiah 29:11. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
There is tremendous comfort in that verse and I’ve always studied the Scriptures to gain a deeper understanding of His Word. The Lord is our leader and it is He who stirs us to move ahead. He has the perfect plan for us, provides our agenda and walks with us as we fulfill His mission. It doesn’t mean we won’t stumble or endure challenges and pain, but God will see us through to a glorious conclusion. I’m banking on that.
About five years ago I wrote a series of tips for graduates to guide them as they navigate their future. Here’s the latest version to remind them be true to themselves, take risks, care for others, and make the most of their journey.
Get the FREE PRINTABLE, ‘18 Tips for the Class of 2018,’ here. Enjoy. Savor these words. Add your own and then share with them. Tuck it away in their Bible so they can refer to it in the days ahead. Consider it words of wisdom to help them make their mark on the world.
This time is incredibly special and I’m praying for your graduate and your family.
**Contact me to request the free printable in your school colors.
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