Happy Monday!

Welcome to graduation month! Whether you were present at a ceremony over the weekend or looking forward to attending or graduating yourself sometime this month, this is a time for celebration. But, with all the excitement, pomp, and circumstance, remember to pause for breaks and rest. Self-care is still essential when attending or participating in formalities – maybe more so.

I saw old pictures on social media the other day: one from my younger daughter’s high school graduation and another from my older daughter’s graduation. It’s hard to fathom how many years ago those pictures were taken, as both have pursued graduate work in their particular fields of endeavor. Both have followed cherished dreams and are living out many of the plans made long ago. Yet, if we look at those dreams as the architecture of their lives, we see the blueprint formed when they were young coming to fruition. It’s exciting to witness.

This quote from Napoleon Hill hit the mark for me, and perhaps it will work for you:

Napoleon Hill Family Quotes
No copyright infringement intended.

For graduates and their families, this is truly a time to cherish your journey and tend to your hearts’ desires. Some will be working in the medical field, and others are heading to law school. Some are working in music, theater, and the arts, while others are heading toward employment in the corporate world. Still, others have their minds set on cuisine, working with electricity, or in the automotive industry. Dreams come in many shapes and sizes, and all are attached to our ultimate desire to achieve excellence.

George Eliot once noted,

“It’s never too late to be what you might have been.”

Some of us have changed career tracks to realize those childhood dreams. Others should take a long look at our current reality and begin to fashion an exit strategy. Maybe we will be preparing for our own graduations in a year or two. There are no limitations to learning at any age.

As we seek to encourage our graduates, a couple of Scriptures come to mind:

“Remember that I have commanded you to be determined and confident! Do not be afraid or discouraged, for I, the Lord your God, am with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 (GNT)

“Later, I will give my Spirit to everyone. Your sons and daughters will prophesy. Your old men will have dreams, and your young men will see visions.” Joel 2:28 (CEV)

“For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.” Romans 15:4 (NIV)

How exciting it is to launch into a new season. There are, I’m sure, a plethora of thoughts running through your heads, both graduates and their supporting communities. Be encouraged, graduates, as you finish well. You have accomplished greatness in living your truth and striving for your personal bests. And those of you who stand in the wings providing safety, opportunity, and reassurance, congratulations on a job well done!

During graduation season, my prayer for you is for peace of mind and spirit, joy in the celebration, and increasing hope for the journey ahead!

Be Well & Be Blessed!
Lucinda