Graduation

Graduation season is here.
Moving up and on.

Graduation means progress.

It is the receiving or conferring of an academic degree or diploma.  It usually involves successfully completing a course of study.  It could be advancement to the next grade or to move up to another level.  

Graduation means change.

Progress and change will bring many feelings.  There can be joy at what has been accomplished, fear about what comes next, relief it is finished or maybe even confusion about the changes that are coming.

Graduation means wisdom.

When thinking about what wisdom has to do with graduation, I thought of this quote from the Oprah & Deepak 21 Day Meditation Experience which says, "To share wisdom and truth with others, we don't need a large audience or a scholarly mind.  We only need wisdom and truth alive in our consciousness along with a willingness to be of service to others in need."  True wisdom is seeing what needs to be done and then acting on your inner knowing.  

Graduation means celebration.

At Kelly's graduation the other night, I saw many happy people that were celebrating.  The people who were graduating and also friends, family and loved ones who were smiling, hugging and taking pictures.  There was clapping, cheers and some people even shed a few tears.  I observed many people with flowers, balloons, signs and gifts.  

Graduation comes with encouragement to be yourself.

Some walked awkwardly, others with a spring in their step.  Some threw their caps, others held onto them for a memory.  Some made it with flying colors, others barely squeaked by.  Some will travel light, others will be the light.  Some will lead, others will follow.  Some know where they are headed, others are searching.  Some are waiting to be inspired, others are the inspiration.

The questions I heard the most on that graduation evening:

• Where are you going now?
• What are your plans?
• What are you going to do next?

Not one person spoke of happiness.

Maybe being happy is the answer we all seek, 

what we want to be when we grow up. 

No one else can be who you are, so just be you. 

Live your best life.

And be happy.

Now! 

Way to go Kelly....proud of you for jumping through those invisible hoops.  Good bye Modesto Junior College, hello CSU Stanislaus.  Have fun and enjoy the next phase on your college journey.  Be happy.