This time of year always reminds me of the opening line from A Tale of Two Cities from the incomparable Charles Dickens, "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times." I am, of course, referring to graduation. Every May, I have the joy, and tears, to watch the students whom have become a treasured part of my life, walk across a stage and begin the rest of their lives. On one hand, my pride in them is immeasurable. I have watched them become amazing human beings in these 4 years, and I know they are about to go out and set the world on fire. On the other hand, I feel remarkable sadness because they will no longer be a part of my daily life.
To those of you reading who are RSU graduates, specifically class of 2021; thank you so, so much for blessing my life and allowing me to be part of your journey. I cannot wait to see the incredible things you do! You forever have my heart, and I will always be so, so proud of you!
Change is an inevitable part of life. We graduate, find and change jobs, get married, have children (or get pets!). Although it is difficult to not experience sadness when one door closes, it is also time to appreciate the door opening right in front of you. One of the things which brings the most excitement is a new opportunity or a new adventure. Think about the last time you did something new. Do you remember how excited you were? Do you remember how much you wanted to share with others? Change is sad and scary, but it also brings insurmountable joy!
I also know the best things in life happen when you do something which makes you uncomfortable. Some of my most uncomfortable moments include starting school (all three times, my bachelors, my masters, and my doctorate). Once I got through the discomfort, I got to do amazing things, and be genuinely happy with the opportunity presented to me at this point in my life.
Maybe you aren't a college graduate, but maybe it is time for you to find something to be excited about again. Perhaps its time to start writing (or finish) the novel you have had in your head for years. Maybe its time to start dating. Maybe its time for a new furbaby, or a job change, or anything that will relight the fire in your heart and give you another opportunity to set the world ablaze!
Yes, it is graduation season, but maybe, just maybe it is a time of renewal for all of us! A time to open the next door and embrace the uncertainty and joy which is life.
To the graduate of the class of 2021: Be blessed, be happy, and change the world. Congratulations.
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