Graduation 2016

grad·u·a·tion
ˌɡrajəˈwāSH(ə)n/
noun

1. 
   the receiving or conferring of an academic degree or diploma.
2. the action of dividing into degrees or other proportionate divisions on a graduated scale.

Yesterday I had the privilege of witnessing Paulo jr and his class from Bishop O'Byrne High School, graduate.  As a catholic school, the day started with a mass.  There was no candy coating the homily as the priest spoke of greed and murder in our world.  I wondered why but as he explained there was a good ending.  There was.  He spoke about how the world is.  How we all have a choice of how to live in it.  To be kind, compassionate and loving.  

The valedictorian spoke about how they all were embarking on a new life.
I like to think of it as a new chapter in the one life we have been given.
It was very interesting to imagine what all the different paths were going to be for these kids.  Some of the students graduated with an honours diploma and some with a certificate of completion.

As they each walked across that stage, I felt the excitement they had for their futures.  Some becoming doctors, lawyers, dentists, artists, teachers, trades and technical people, some free spirits and no real PLANS yet, but what I felt was God's hand in all of it.   

What I know for sure?  God has deposited gifts and talents into each of us.  None of us is better than another.  Although I recognized the talent of the honours students and their bright futures, I also felt excited for those students with gifts in other areas.  
What became readily apparent to me as I celebrated yesterday, was that with this one life, we are given an amazing opportunity to open the gifts God gave us and to live our best.  Compassion, kindness, generosity, understanding and ultimately LOVE will get you through anything and mostly FAITH.  I am so glad I believe in a power greater than me.  I choose to call it God, but you might call it Source, Universe, Creator.
Whatever you call it, I hope that you thank Him today.  I sure have.
My heart is full.  I only have one son.  I will never experience that day again in quite the same way.  

While I was sick I prayed for this day.  I asked God to be able to witness it and share it.  Today I am in so much gratitude.  I visualized it.  I accomplished it.

Not every day is good but there is good in every day. That is the secret of life.  To enjoy every moment.  To choose happy.  To ask God for help during the trying times in order to really enjoy the good days he gifts us.

Today I want to send many blessings to all the grads of 2016.  May all your dreams and desires come true.

Thank you to all the teachers along the way.  Thank you to family and friends  who have supported us through it all.  Thank you to all the doctors who have taken care of us and through life altering illnesses have helped us get and remain well.  Mostly, thank you God for this one precious human life. 

In the words of Therou
Go confidently in the direction of your dreams.  Live the life you have always imagined.


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