Graduating to a Greater Perspective

I can still vividly recall the day I graduated from high school. It was a momentous occasion, with all my classmates gathering at the UNO Lakefront Arena in New Orleans, ready to bid farewell to our high school years. In that moment, as I reflected on my journey, I couldn't help but think about the challenges I had faced and the sacrifices I had made to reach that grand stage. Academically, I was never the top student, nor did I shine brightly on the honor roll. My high school years were marked by setbacks, yet they were also filled with some of the most enjoyable moments of my teenage life.

Walking towards the principal to shake her hand felt like crossing a bridge into the unknown. I glanced out into the audience and noticed our school band performing, realizing for the first time in three years that I was no longer part of that ensemble. The feeling of leaving it all behind became overwhelming, and a tear escaped my eye.

That, to me, encapsulates the essence of graduation.

According to Webster's definition, to graduate is to move from one stage of experience, proficiency, or prestige to a usually higher one. This concept extends beyond academia – ideally, we should aim to graduate from various aspects of our lives frequently. Consider the following examples:

• You graduated when you made the decision to leave a toxic work environment. Perhaps your contributions weren't valued, and quietly resigning was the best course of action.
• You graduated when you chose to surround yourself with a more positive group of friends. Sometimes, we outgrow certain habits and behaviors that tie us to certain people.
• You graduated when you walked away from an abusive relationship, prioritizing your mental and physical well-being over toxic companionship.
• You graduated when you found the courage to speak up for yourself after years of silence.
• You graduated when you shifted your perspective and began seeing challenging experiences as opportunities for growth and preparation for better things to come.

My friend, I urge you to take a proactive approach to your life and elevate your perspective. Make a conscious effort to mature your outlook on events that may initially dampen your spirits. Purposefully seek out the ways in which hardships can strengthen your character. This doesn't mean disregarding the significance of your emotions in the present moment; rather, it means redirecting your focus towards preparing for brighter days ahead. You've grown beyond being permanently overwhelmed by temporary challenges. Walk across that stage with tears in your eyes, yet hold your head high with pride.

Graduate!