It’s that time of year!
No, not allergy season, lol!
Graduations, caps and gowns, diplomas, certificates, parties and gifts.
Getting ready to take the next step: To junior college? To a university? To a job?
Mamas and daddies are worried about their babies leaving the nest, and how they will pay for it all. Are the graduates ready?
Well, were we ready when it was our time to step out from the familiar into the more independent and responsible world?
I was thinking about advice for graduates and I decided to question some of my friends and people I know from different age groups and situations. I got some interesting answers. One thing most adults said was they wished there had been more education in high school about different careers, so they could have made a more informed choice about their planning for the future and education.
Here’s some highlights in advice to high school graduates taking the next step in life:
A former teacher said: “I would tell them to remember who they are when they go to school or out into the world. Don’t let others sway them from their Christian values, whether it be college professors or people in the work force.” Big men!
A young professional man: “They should have an idea of what they want to do as a career. If I could go back now with the knowledge and understanding I have, I’d be that high school kid taking business and finance classes and giving it my all.”
A retired adult: “Study and follow your passion, but make sure it is practical and can support you!”
A retired adult from the medical field: “Be prepared to work hard — before, during and after school and classes.”
A retired lady who had several careers: “Put God first in everything! Be sure to do something so you can take care of yourself.”
A young professional family man: “Put the Lord first. Follow Him, and all will fall in place. You can’t do it on your own.”
From a young family man working for a corporation: “I say perseverance is key. It’s not a mistake if you keep going. Every painful situation teaches you something that the cowards who don’t endure don’t know, so you have the unique sacred knowledge only possessed by those who tried, failed, refused to let the failure be permanent, and found the path on the other side. Always be open to learning, seek to learn, but never quit!”
From me: “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will succeed.” Proverbs 16:3
“Whatever you do, do it from the heart for the Lord and not for people.” Colossians 3:23
“Instead, desire first and foremost God’s kingdom and God’s righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Matthew 6:33
There are many other things I would say, but no more room for now. Ask for help when you need it. Stay spiritually strong. Take care of your health. Call your mama and daddy.
Pray constantly.
