As 319 purple graduation caps flew threw the air, time seemed to slow down and several thoughts occurred to me. The first: "Wow, I really hope everyone pays attention and no one gets hit by a falling hat. Those things look sharp." The second was a simple question. "Now what?"
I have only just finished my freshman year of high school, but I attended graduation this year because my older twin brothers, among several other close friends, finished high school this year. Throughout this year I have had mixed emotions about "the g-word," both dreading it and anticipating it. So as it finally hit me that it was actually happening last night, I knew there were some things I wanted to say, both to the graduates and to everyone else.
First, to the graduates at Canyon: I want to say thank you on behalf of myself and all the other underclassmen this past year. You have all impacted all of us in so many ways. Each of you has set such a phenomenal example of what it means to represent the C and what it means to be a leader. Your class, as was stated so many times last night, has left behind a legacy that will help all classes in the future to better themselves. We may not ever be able to accomplish all that you have again, but because of the CHS class of 2014, we have reason to try. All of the things Canyon High has accomplished this year in choir, band, basketball, baseball, football, volleyball, soccer, tennis, UIL academics, journalism, and so many other areas were possible mostly if not entirely because of you. Thank you for your talent, your hard work, and your investment in our school and in each of us individually. Canyon High will never be the same, and neither will we, thanks to you. Oh, and congratulations!!
Secondly, to graduates nationwide: Congratulations! You have received a diploma. You now have a choice. You can use that diploma not at all, if that's what you want to do. However, every dream you've had from as far back as you can remember has begun with a high school diploma. You have the option to take that diploma and make it into a college degree, get a job, and pursue your passions and dreams. No doubt with a lot of hard work, there's a lot you can accomplish. But though your own goals are important, the document you now possess gives you an opportunity to accomplish something so much greater. Your walk across the stage didn't end when you returned to your seat. You may now go out into the world and change it. It all starts with that diploma, but graduation isn't an end to anything. Is it not called a commencement ceremony? You've finished high school. Go out into the world and used what you've learned to make a difference. The end of high school is your chance to look at the world and say, "Where do I want to go now, and what do I want to do?" But I guarantee that if you answer those questions with just four simple words, there's nothing you won't be able to do. These four words: "Your will be done." Proverbs 3:5-6 and Isaiah 26:4 both have a very simple message. They say "Trust in the Lord." If you trust in the Father and his plans for your life, it may not be easy and it may not be where you thought you were going to go. But Proverbs 16:9 says that though you may have plans, the Lord establishes your steps. Trust that God is in control and know he is constantly at work in your life. And his plans are better than we can dare to dream.
Finally, to parents, siblings, family and friends: This may be as much a transition time for you as it is for your graduate. Life will undoubtedly be different as they move on from high school. However, it's important for you to know that God is just as much in control in your life as he is in the lives of each of these graduates. So no matter what stage of your life is coming next, trust in the Lord. You won't regret it.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. --Proverbs 3:5,6
