Dan G. Nielson: Exciting time, preparing to play the game for real
As the end of the 12th year of school draws near, there is all this talk and excitement about graduation. Many students are counting down the days left, and others just cannot wait to leave high school forever.
Announcements need to be sent out and finals need to be taken. Amid all this frenzy, does one ever stop and think about what graduation really is?
It is a transition from one phase of life to the beginning of another. For 12 years, we have worked hard and long, and finally, the end is in sight. Our reward is a high school diploma. This is a great and well-deserved accomplishment. This achievement is one that every graduating senior should be proud of.
There have been many memories made, obstacles overcome and lessons learned. We have been taught a broad knowledge of the world around us and have learned the basic principles of life. Now we are about to be turned loose.
Not only is this an exciting time, but also it is a frightening time as it is a step into un- charted territory. My question is, does a high school diploma really mean anything anymore? It is hard to go anywhere or become anyone with only a high school diploma. College education and specialized training is required for almost every job.
A high school diploma may not get us very far, but it is a great start to a successful life. So really, now is just the beginning of our lives. We will take everything we have learned and use it to pave our own route in the world. High school was almost like a practice run where we could try new things and have the opportunity to toss out the bad or keep the good.
We are now playing the game for real where there are no time outs. It is time to get serious and go out and win. Whatever course we pursue, hopefully we can strive to reach a higher level and continue to grow and progress.
We have made lasting friendships and memories that will help carry us through the next step on our journey. Graduation truly is one of the best times in our lives.