With the graduation of my third child quickly approaching, I can’t help but be a little nostalgic. I have always said that you should enjoy your children at the age they are today, because they will never be that age again. I still believe that to be true. There are things that will miss from each stage of my children’s lives. However, I remind myself that although I may long for the days when my babies were close at hand, I would really not want my babies to truly be babies forever. I am blessed with children who are smart, capable, and independent. I would never want to deprive my children of achieving their dreams and accomplishments or myself and my husband of the witnessing their dreams becoming reality and sharing in the honor of encouraging them and occasionally drying their tears and holding them close when things do not go as they have planned.

With all that in mind my advice for graduates is dream your dreams, reach for your goals, but make a plan to get there. The only way to achieve a dream or reach a goal is to have a plan. I promise you it will NEVER happen if you do not have a plan. Having said that, it does not mean that the plan is set in stone, you still need to be flexible and allow for “surprises!” I know many of you cannot wait to be out from under parents watchful eyes to be a little wild. Always remember all it takes is one second of a bad judgment or moment of indiscretion to totally mess up your life. How do you know if it is a bad idea? Ask yourself this question: “Would I be able to go home and tell my ______________( Mom, Grandmother, Grandfather, Dad, favorite teacher, pastor, etc) what I’m getting ready to do or what I’m doing?” If the answer is “no” then you probably should not be doing it!

To my own graduating daughter this is what I have to offer you:

My Dearest Little One,

Yes, I know you cringe when you hear that nickname, but it is how I will always think of you. You are my little one. I love your determination and your dedication to following your heart, but with the willingness to yield to God’s guidance and plan for your life. You never cease to amaze me with your ability to connect to those around you and your honesty in presenting your opinions.

I know that God has an amazing plan for your life. I have watched you as you have worked in Tiger Buddies and have helped in Mrs. Walker’s class. I love the way your eyes sparkle when you are sharing something with me. I am very proud of your choices and how you do not let peer pressure determine what you do.

I am very, very proud of you and love you with all of my heart, Little One.

Love,

Mom