Believe, find a purpose, enjoy life
Thomas Henry Huxley once said, “The rung of a ladder was never meant to rest upon, but only to hold a man’s foot long enough to enable him to put the other somewhat higher.”
As the class of 2006, this quote is the true epitome of where we are in our lives. As we celebrate graduation, we are also overcome with a sense of sadness. What will I do next? What does being “grown up” entail? These are questions that we ponder on a daily basis. However, a chapter in our life is closing. With that comes some great opportunities that should not only excite us but make us eager to see what this great big world holds for us individually. It is time to climb the ladder.
The first rung that we need to climb is that of believing in ourselves. Every one of us is capable of great things. We all have something that we are good at and something very special to share. Don’t ever think that you don’t, because you do. I encourage you to not only find your talents but strive everyday to reach your full potential. It is only when we do our very best that we will feel fulfilled and satisfied. Find what you are good at and go after it!
The next rung for us to climb is finding our place. Thinking about this I am reminded of a song by Michael W. Smith. In the song the chorus says, “Looking for a reason, roaming through the night to find my place in this world.” I think we have all felt this way. Sometimes living in this great, big world we can feel pretty insignificant and small; however, life isn’t about being famous or doing big things, but rather doing those small things everyday.
Mother Teresa drove this point home for me when she said, “We cannot all do great things, but we can all do small things with great love.” Sometimes these small things can just be a simple smile or a friendly “hello.” An act of compassion, no matter how small and insignificant is may seem to you, can truly change the life of another. That is it! Life is about loving people.
Thinking this way truly empowers you to do more and to realize the impact that you may be making on another human being. We are the next generation; be the change you wish to see.
Another rung that is very important for us to climb is enjoying life. Success is the way we measure our lives here in America; everything is a competition to be won. But remember, true success can be measured in many different ways. We are not here forever, so finding things that bring you joy is imperative.
Always stop and realize the greatness life has to offer. Don’t let busyness take away from your joy. Enjoying those you love, observing nature, and appreciating the things you have been blessed with is a great start. There are so many exciting experiences to life. Sometimes difficult times are put in front of us to teach us and to make us strong. Then at other times exciting and fun things remind us that we have been blessed. But, no matter what, take the time to appreciate life and the experiences of it.
So, Class of 2006, as you continue to climb the ladder of life, rung by rung, strive to be your very best in everything you do, do the small things that make big impacts, and take time to just enjoy life. Finally remember, each and every one of you is important and can make a difference. Congratulations and good luck with your climb.