A Salute to Graduates

Graduation time is a very important milestone in a young person’s life. Our congratulations to each of our graduates on this milestone in their lives. On the one hand, it spells the end of many long, arduous years of study. But, on the other hand, it marks the beginning of a new phase of life. Our graduates begin a new journey into adulthood with all its incumbent responsibilities. Because of the importance of the occasion, it seems appropriate to offer some suggestions.

First, it is important to dream. We all need a vision for life, but remember, dreams don’t always come true. Be realistic. If things don’t go exactly as you plan, make the most of what does come along. Life is uncertain, but that is not cause for despair. It is cause for trust (James 4:13-16).

Second, take responsibility for your life. Life is what we make of it. Success depends, not on luck, but on hard work. Determine what you want to do with your life, and then give it your best shot. Don’t let others discourage you. And, don’t interpret a momentary loss as permanent defeat. It often takes a lifetime to reach our destination. Stay on the right road. Keep moving forward (Philippians 3:13-16).

Third, whatever you do, give it your best shot. Anything worth doing is worth doing right. Commit to excellence. Be the best you can be. “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men” (Colossians 3:23).

Fourth, put others first. The key to a meaningful and happy life is found in service. The real joys in life come from giving, not getting (Acts 20:35).

Fifth, develop character. Society cries out for men and women of character. Let honesty, integrity and truth guide your steps. A wise teacher use to tell her students on examination day, “I’m giving you two tests today, one in trigonometry and one in honesty. If you can pass only one, make sure it is the test in honesty. There are a lot of good men who know no trigonometry, but there are no good men who are not honest.” Be honest in all you do (Romans 12:17).

Finally, make a place for God in your life. When life ends, and it does for all of us, there will be no consolation in the successes of this life, if God has been left out. Neither money, power, nor fame can provide peace when the end is near. Only a personal relationship with God through Christ can make that possible (Acts 4:12).

Again, congratulations!