At this time of year with school ending and graduation ceremonies commencing, I cannot help but be amazed by how quickly time passes. We have three graduations in our household this year. Wasn’t it only yesterday that Kelsey was painting a tepee in the back yard of our first house with her Dad? This past Saturday she graduated from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago in the Millennium Park pavillion.
What a memorable ceremony and setting it was. Patti Smith (70’s rocker, born in Chicago but lived for many years in Detroit) was the keynote speaker and singer. The perfect choice for an art school graduation where one student roller-skated to pick up her diploma while another graduate did a belly dance/twirl complete with ethnic costume. The rain held out for all but five minutes, enough time for us all to don our issued black slickers and then quickly take them off.
I have recently read that this will be one of the most difficult years in recent history for college graduates to find jobs, but I cannot help but feel hopeful for all these talented graduates. As Patti Smith said in her speech, “As a graduate, you know that you have accomplished something of substance and no one can take that away from you. Be proud”. Whether it be college, high school or even 8th grade, which is the third graduation in our household this year, be proud of this milestone. As parents we are very proud of you. Remember the toughest times in life often build the strongest character. I feel confidant that these graduates will make a difference in the world.
Transitions can be tough, but they are exciting too. Endings are always good beginnings and a fresh start in life. Commencement is actually defined as "the act or time of a beginning". Graduation is the ending of one chapter and just the start of new one. Congratulations graduates!
This may be the best post you have ever done. I have wet eyes. Love - Me
Posted by: Tim Keaton | May 26, 2011 at 08:45 PM