My oldest daughter will graduate with a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology on Saturday!!
I am one proud mama!
During the ceremony, speeches will echo out across a sea of caps and gowns. Most of what’s said will skip about the room with a low absorption rate. Most members of the audience will focus on one person in the room, their graduate.
It’s a shame there isn’t a way to personalize such a momentous occasion. To hear from each graduate about the circuitous path they followed to arrive at graduation would take weeks, or months, but oh the stories! To get a taste of the audience members perspective of that path would add a dimension never dreamed of before.
To share some small fraction of lessons learned in and out of the classroom while on that path would fill libraries.
I intended to dispense advice in my own little version of a graduation speech for my daughter. After all, I gave a graduation speech at my high school graduation eons ago.
But then, I thought of my daughter and her path to this point in her journey. She’s taught me more than I ever taught her. I’m certain of it.
She arrived in this world already confident and brave and friendly.
Now she is also: A world traveler. Caring. Smart. Beautiful. Open-minded, open-hearted. Anticipatory. Relaxed. Brave, adventurous, fun. Prepared. Strong. Kind. Willful. Opinionated. Easy going. Friendly. Wise.
What’s next? Graduate school? Maybe. A career? Maybe. She’s taking the summer to mull it over and relax. It’s been a long winding road.
My Advice?
- Be yourself.
- Trust your feelings.
- Remember you are loved.
- Keep your eyes open.
- Enjoy.
- Love.
- Give.
That’s about it. No speech from me.
She has what she needs, she’ll get where she’s going with style and grace and a smile on her face.
Oh, one last thing:
- Keep in touch with your mom.
That’s all.
I love you my sweet girl!