High School Graduation

On Tuesday, our second graduate in less than a month walked across the stage to receive a diploma. Before that, earlier in the program, Philip sang the Godwin alma mater. It was quite an honor for him to receive and a treat for us to enjoy as a family. Here's a picture of him singing.

I wish I could take some credit for Philip's vocal talent, but that would introduce facts not in evidence.

This Godwin High School Class of 2009 was made up of some awesome young people, and I was fortunate to get to know quite a few of them. The students who spoke at graduation were tremendously gifted and they all did a great job of relating to their audience.

Steps along a journey are filled with small accomplishments and setbacks. This night was just a convenient stopping place.

Best wishes to all the graduates!

Graduation Day

On Saturday Emily joined the ranks of James Madison University's graduating class of 2009. We were in Harrisonburg for the day, wishing all her classmates good fortune as nearly all of them look for employment. When I graduated nearly everyone in the class had job offers, and most had full-time employment waiting for them whenever they decided to start. But this year's class is looking for their first offer. Circumstances may not be in the favor of this year's grads, but they are determined to make something meaningful of their lives.

That is the spirit that was infectious on Saturday. You remember that graduation feeling, which included a mix of joyful at achieving something that was mostly accomplished on your own, kind of sad to leave college life and friends, at the same time a tiny bit of trepidation at entering the real world, and excitement at the same time.

The class of 2009 will be great! They will work hard and figure things out and make the most of their lives, just like we did. Congratulations!