When you walked into that new school in mid-August four years ago, graduation day probably wasn’t even on the radar.

However, now that those four years have passed — most likely much faster than you thought — for seniors throughout Lawrence County will be walking across the stage to receive their diploma’s this week.

For me personally, this year is extra special for me because my younger brother graduated from Collins Career Technology Center this past week.

It was just like yesterday he was just a little boy that had all the spunk in the world.

I remember getting him dressed for various things like church, and one of the many memories I have is someone at church telling him he looked sharp.

His response was priceless, as he replied, “I’ll cut ya” referring to his attire. Everyone around started laughing hysterically.

This is not only true for the students, but the parents and siblings as well. Most parents have vivid memories of dropping their child off at school for the first time or putting them on the school bus.

Fifteen years later, I’m reminded of just how quickly time moves. Especially with the busy schedules many keep with sports and other events, it is important to just take a little time to sit back and enjoy the ride. Because all too soon, it will be over and the kids will be grown up and have families of their own.

For graduates, with all the things that kids deal with these days, do not let the time get away from you.

Because, for those going to college or starting their careers, the responsibility now falls squarely on your shoulders, as it will not be your parent’s obligation to ensure your papers or projects get done or you show up on time for work.

When you walk across the stage this week to receive your diploma, remember all the hard work that went into this chapter of your life.

And that is the truth; Life is a bunch of chapters as you would find in a textbook. For example, a chapter closed when you learned to walk, got your driver’s license and now will graduate from high school.

The next chapters could include receiving your college diploma, getting a promotion at your job, getting married and having children. 15 years from now, you will most likely look back just like I did this week and wonder where the time went.

But during the next chapter of your life, work hard to figure out what you want to do with your life. Develop goals and work as hard as you can to reach them.

Are those big decisions for an 18 or 19 year old? Sure they are.

Does that mean you won’t make a mistake or a bad decision along the way? Absolutely not.

But that is what the real world is about, as we all make important decisions each day. Those decisions do not always pan out, but if you do make a mistake, do not let it derail you from achieving what you want out of life.

I could list several things that could rear its ugly head during your journey from child to adult, but it would take up quite a bit of newsprint.

I do not have all the answers, and neither do you. Most likely, until the day you leave this earth, you will still make mistakes and continue to learn.

If I can leave you with a lasting thought, do not be afraid to fail or try something new, and make the best of every situation you encounter.

 

Josh Morrison is the general manager at The Tribune. To reach him, call 740-532-1441 ext. 16 or by email at josh.morrison@irontontribune.com.