Graduation Day

I’ve been to a lot of graduations in my time. With 6 kids and 12 grandkids (and some luck!) there’s been a lot of opportunities. And I’ve pretty much run the gamut, everything from kindergarten, to first grade to high school, college and even a graduate degree or two. They’re always fun in their own way, regardless of the grade completed. And I’m all for celebrating life’s accomplishments every chance we get, no matter how young or how old.

But these things are always more than just a fun celebration. Each graduation represents the culmination of years of ongoing effort, of challenges met and obstacles overcome. It’s never easy, and we don’t always know the hardships endured and sacrifices made to reach that goal. It’s something we should never take for granted, a milestone to be admired and cherished. I’m going to my son Michael’s graduation from college this weekend. It’ll be a happy time for the whole family. But it’s also the culmination of many years of hard work and dedication. I couldn’t be prouder. Congratulations Michael! And congratulations to all the new graduates out there!

God Bless,
Jim Shore