Four years ago, those seniors who are graduating probably thought this day would never get here.

However, looking back it may likely seem like the time flew by much quicker than you ever imagined. Even if it doesn’t right this second, a time will come relatively soon that you will wonder where the time went.

This sentiment is also true for the families of those graduating, as memories will come flooding back. Like the first day they dropped you off at school, your fifth grade graduation or the first day of high school.

You will tell stories for many years to come about the late night projects that were due the following day, or cramming for the exam.

Life is about the memories you make, both good and bad. Now 16 years later, I still remember the day I graduated, the anxiousness and nervousness about what was next for my life. But I also found joy of knowing that I completed a chapter in my life.

All too often, we all keep such busy schedules that we don’t slow and take the time to savor the moment. I encourage all those graduating this year to take a moment, even if it is just a second, to cherish this time.

For some, knowing exactly what they want to do in life was determined years ago. For others, that long-term career path hasn’t quite been determined yet. And that is OK.

In today’s society, it seems that we are simply afraid of going after our goals and dreams. We want everything to be exactly at the right place and time in order to work toward a goal. Unfortunately, it just doesn’t always work that way. Sometimes, you have to go out on a limb and take a risk. Does it always work out the way you wanted? No. But at least you can look back and know you gave your best shot. That’s part of life.

As you start the next chapter of your life, whether that is starting a job or going off to college, always have a goal in mind. Have short-term and long-term goals, develop and plan to achieve those goals and work hard. Will mistakes and bad decisions rear their ugly head along the way? Absolutely. Learn from them and have a better understanding the next time. Don’t think that you have all the answers right now, because quite frankly no one does. Now 16 years later, I learn new things and make mistakes every day. And that will be true for all of us until the day we leave this earth. Don’t let any mistake or bad decision wreck the ability to achieve your dreams.

At the same time, allow yourself the time to create and enjoy the memories being made. It may sometimes be difficult to do that, but doing so will allow you to stay focused.

I encourage all of us to be like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., have a dream and go after it. Don’t wait or rely on someone else to do it for you.

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.