Graduation

I’ve been to a lot of graduations this year.

The DDD covered 11 school’s commencement ceremonies.

It’s a good thing I enjoy these events.

They all have similarities.

The senior class entering, family members looking on with tears in their eyes, awards given, and speeches made.

They are also unique.

You never know what might happen.

This year I witnessed a young man in the military, stationed in Japan, surprise his little sister by secretly coming into town and standing at the back of the gym, while she gave her valedictorian speech.

Priceless.

Also, the student’s speeches are unique. Each one a little different, but all filled with hope and excitement for what lies ahead.

These graduation moments will become cherished memories for the Class of 2019.

High school moments tend to stay with you for the rest of your life.

I remember well freshman initiation, the principal’s morning announcements over the P.A., and the dreaded final exams.

During these commencement ceremonies those memories came flooding back.

When you get older you look back at your life and you realize that the advice parents and teachers gave you is absolutely true.

Time does fly.

My advice is slow down, take it easy.

Enjoy every bit of it.

Someday it will be you in the graduation audience and I hope you’ll be able to say your school years were some of the best times of your life.

Congratulations to the class of 2019.

Do amazing things.

See you out there.