WOW (Words.of.Wisdom)

Dear 2020 High School Graduates, 

Let me start off by saying...the world is yours! It’s an exciting time as I scroll down the good ol’ Social Media timelines and see beautiful smiles, pictures, videos and words of encouragement from proud family members, teachers, and friends. It’s inspiring to see the world come together during this pandemic to recognize your efforts. Class 2020 will be different, as those before you had the option to attend our “Last Dance” (Prom); to receive a speech from our valedictorians, and to walk the stage to receive our certificate to life (diploma) in recognition of our efforts from grades K-12 as our first steps in education to display for the world to see. It’s unfortunate you were unable to experience these things. However, with a little bit of creativity your Class Reunion committees can come together to recreate your 2020 prom and/commencement ceremonies to make those missed opportunities a reality (although it may not be same). Additionally, there has been significant changes to our economy, the way we live, and society as a whole. So now, the real work begins...some of you may be off to college, joining the military or immediately entering the workforce. While others may choose to take a break from education to marry their high school sweethearts and/have children...there’s nothing wrong with these life decisions as long as you plan accordingly to secure your families  future. Now is the time to write a “past future” letter to yourselves to document your thoughts of today to reflect on your growth 10-20 years from now. I’ve learned over the years that “Growth has roots, but no ceiling” meaning never be afraid to learn new things about yourself and others no matter what you were taught, use the nourishments (new lessons) to grow as the sky is the limit. There will be good and bad days...friendships gained and lost...classmates lost along the way and life challenges and changes amongst a world of strangers. You’ll discover yourself in ways that you never thought before and when you greet your classmates again, you’ll share those life changing experiences; not for belittlement/boasting, but to acknowledge growth through betterment and to pick up your fellow classmate where they may have faltered. Remember, we all have flaws, but together we can achieve and conquer so much more. It does not matter the color of your skin; we may bleed the same, but we all dream different. Now is the time to understand that your voice and legacy in our communities matter. It takes a village to raise a child, but the unity in our communities goes deeper and much further than politics. Your graduating class will advance more changes over the years to come. Your innovation and leadership will challenge those after you to be better, stronger, smarter and faster. The famous line from Spider-Man echoes in mind when Uncle Ben tells Peter “With great power comes great responsibility” and now is your time to show strength in numbers to thrive and establish greatness. We value you...we trust you and overall we are proud of you! Go out, make a difference and show the world what you’re made of. Congratulations graduate...it’s your time! God Bless