While it would probably be enough to just say “good luck” and “We love you,’ that’s not all there is to say- Not by a long shot- so before you cross that tassel over to the other side here goes:
First, Congratulations!
Ignore my (moms) crying and the zillion pictures I’ll be making you take. In fact, forget everyone and everything and make this moment about nothing other than you. Accept every hug and kiss from the grandmas. Take your victory lap. Jump in that river. This is one of those “big moments” we told you about. Soak in every second of it.
Keep moving.
Take your moment then move on. Now is the first time, but certainly not the last one, that you’ll learn that life just keeps moving. Hold your head up high, keep looking straight ahead, then take that next step. The truth is that we all worry about what’s supposed to come next. Everyday heroes put one foot in front of the other and just do it. You can too.
Take care of yourself.
Take care of yourself, your stuff, and especially, those you love. A good life is yours for the taking; just remember everything and everyone will need a little of your attention every now and then. Don’t ever get so busy making a living that you forget to have a life.
Hold your fire.
People, things, and even circumstances may be fully deserving of the full power of your fire. Hold it when you can. Count to ten, go for a drive, take a walk…Do whatever you have to do to find a peaceful but workable solution. The world needs more lovers, not fighters.
We’ve ALWAYS got your back.
You are never alone in this world. You’re lucky to have a safety net knit tightly of good friends and family who are all ready to be there when you need them. Let that love carry you in weak moments. And when you get a chance, do the same for someone else.
Dream big.
And I mean really, really big, but also live every day with a spirit of wonder and brave resolve too. A lot of adulthood is not so much an exciting new road but a familiar, well-worn path. Marvel at the simple joys and brace yourself for the sad, scary things that can, and will, pop up along the way. Have faith in yourself and in God and, I promise, everything will fall into place. Eventually.
Be there.
Celebrate others successes and ease the burden of their failures. Make them laugh and sit with them when they are sad. Go to boring parties, lame weddings, and uncomfortable dinner parties because someone asked you to be there for them. You’ll be amazed at the joy you’ll find from doing the thing you really didn’t want to do.
Love is all you need.
You will have a lot of choices to make the next few days, months, and years. It can all seem a little overwhelming. Let The Beatles provide a little clarity in the chaos: “all you need is love”. If you have it, give it. Plain and simple. Then you won’t just have a blessed life, you will be a blessing to others as well.
You look so handsome.
Seriously. Yes, I know I’m biased but I’m your mother and I’m allowed to be.
You have no idea what it’s like to watch someone grow up before your eyes but I hope you get that privilege.
We are so unbelievably proud of the young man you have become inside and out. And you look great in that cap and gown too. Like for real: you are rocking it.
We love you.
Truly, honestly, deeply. This day. Every day. Forever. Take that knowledge with you into a brave new world.
The best is yet to come, my baby. Keep shooting for those stars.
Love, Mom and Dad
P.S. Â I finally get to scratch off #6 from my To Do List! YAY ME!
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