Tuesday, May 27, 2008

Starting out in this World


One high school graduation may seem just like the next to the antsy family observer. There is a difference however - a big one. Each batch of kids to joyfully accept that diploma holds a different set of possibilities. Who will rise from the group I watched traipse across the riser last Friday night to give the world something special? Whether they skipped or walked solemnly, each one had a world of endless possibilities awaiting them and they seemed to know it.

My niece, Molly, pictured here with my sister, Marty and brother-in-law, Dave, was as excited as any of the rest of her fellow classmates. But she said to me that it didn't feel real. When does it ever feel real? I wonder if it's something like that for the Olympic athletes that finally win a medal? Or those that garner a Pulitzer Prize? At the time, I suspect, it never feels real.

But the world out there is real and watching about 800 kids assembled, giggling and anxious, was a natural high. If I could just have one slice of their energy to take to my next project! If somehow, I could put the dreams they have on display so I won't forget my own!

I know that Molly will go on to do great things. She's been volunteering with her church during her summers to help poor children in the Dominican Republic. The experience helped her decide to become a nurse. I can't wait to see how her life turns out...and those of my daughter, son, and other nieces and nephews. As their stories unfold, I get to be a part of it. Isn't that exciting in itself?

Life is a great adventure and sometimes watching the younger generation can be almost as much fun as doing it yourself.