Commencement: A season of change

Springtime is always a season of change. The plants and bugs are coming back out of their winter slumber. Farmers are turning dirt and sowing seeds. But one of the biggest changes we see every spring is that of graduation. No matter what level you are at, your graduation means that things are going to be different in your life. Preschool graduates get ready to be Kindergarteners, middle school graduates prepare for life in high school, and so on.

This past week I participated in a high school Baccalaureate service, and a preschool graduation. The preschool graduation brought back the memories of my two kids at that stage in life. Their excitement to get to go to the ‘big school’ and possibly ride the bus was enormous. Their love of learning was just starting to grow. I loved every minute of it. But, like most of you, it brought some sadness too. My sons were growing up too fast. They were headed off to a new school and new friends. Time needed to slow down. It hasn’t yet, and no matter how much we hope and pray, it never will.

The Baccalaureate service brought me back 22 years (That sounds like forever ago!). Our school didn’t have a Baccalaureate service, but I remember very vividly all the rest of the things leading up to graduation. I remember turning in the last of my assignments, and counting down the hours until I was free. I remember Senior Sunday in my church. I remember that the day I graduated it rained for the first time in a month, and it rained hard. Unfortunately, I also remember not wanting to be there that day. I was over high school. I had built walls and had closed myself off to those around me. I was stuck in the mud of life and needed a change, a fresh start. Some of it was brought about by the treatment of others, but a lot of it was brought about by how I perceived it and let it affect me. It led me to go to a university where no one else from my hometown was. It was scary and full of unknowns.

However, it was the decision I needed in the moment, and it worked out for me. I met my wife there, and created many lasting friendships with new and diverse people.

Enough about me though.

Graduation is a complex time. There is joy, there is sadness, there is eagerness and hesitation. To the graduates, it’s ok that you don’t have life figured out. You’ll figure things out in time. Just remember, as you move on to the next chapter, don’t forget the things you love and the people that love you. Your faith and your church don’t go away as you leave the house. Carry it with you and wear it with pride. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, and embrace your faith as it grows and changes.

To the parents and to the loved ones who have graduates this year. I see you, and I feel your emotions. This is a change for you too. But remember back to the first years of your kids lives, when you hoped your child would grow to be successful and a good human being. Growth is difficult, and watching those we love grow can be just as difficult. We would give anything to go back, even if it were just for one more day. But have grace, and be that solid foundation that you always have been. Much like God’s love, your love doesn’t change as your graduates leave. You may just have to find a new medium to keep that fire burning. Be proud of the person they have become, and embrace all the goodness they are about to have in their lives.

Blessings to all of you that are graduating! Good luck in the future! Jesus loves you, and don’t forget about the people that love you and are excited to watch you grow!