Graduates should cherish their accomplishments
Congratulations to the graduating class of 2006, whose members walked across the stage for the past three nights in Warren and Van Buren counties.
Boyd Christian began local graduation ceremonies Thursday when 17 seniors received their diplomas. In Spencer Friday night, Van Buren County High School saw 47 proud graduates earn their degrees. Warren County High School capped local ceremonies Saturday when 376 seniors took part in graduation, and even more than that received diplomas.
Congratulations seniors for a job well done. You have reached one of your first major milestones. From this point forward, you must begin the process of shaping your futures and determining what to make of your life after high school.
Some of you will head off to a four-year university. Others will stay at home and work. Technical schools and two-year degrees are gaining popularity. Regardless of your goals, and what you consider your ultimate destination, you deserve to savor your accomplishments and enjoy your success.
Over the past three days, you were declared a high school graduate. Take pride in this achievement. You’ve earned it through years of math problems and reading assignments, by passing pop quizzes, spelling tests and Gateway exams.
The future, and many responsibilities, lie ahead. There will be children to raise, mortgage payments to make, food to put on the table. Enjoy this moment and remember what it feels like to be on top. May this feeling of accomplishment stay with you and may it drive you toward continued success.
Thus far, much of your life has been guided by your parents who have nurtured you, often held your hand through difficult decisions, and provided life?s essentials such as food and shelter. Most of you will always be able to count on your parents and family for support.
At the same time, part of the passage into adulthood revolves around handing over the reins of your life to you. Sometimes you will fail. That?s a fact of life no matter how old you are. But just as often, you will succeed – and it?s that fulfillment which will catapult you to continue working toward your goals.
Here at the Standard, our employees are caught up in the joys of graduation just like the rest of the community. Bookkeeper Teresa Warren watched her daughter, Melia, graduate from college earlier this month. Ad designer Kyle Ward also watched his wife, Stephanie, receive her college degree
Whether it?s high school or college, the Standard is proud to honor the fine graduates of the class of 2006.
Class of 2006, we wish you the very best.