One of my favorite movie quotes that I find insightful and inspiring serves as a powerful reminder that we must be able to face challenges, adapt to adversity, and cope with change. Forrest Gump’s Mama said that “Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.” That quote has become widely recognized and is used in everything from everyday conversations to speech presentations. In fact, I used that quote in my own valedictory address when I graduated from nursing school. Since graduation season is in full swing, there’s a good chance it might pop up again. Graduating is a milestone that deserves celebration, reflection, and a deep breath. A new chapter is ready to unfold, and it is filled with possibilities but uncertainty as well.
Richard and I have exactly one niece and two great-nephews graduating from high school in the next few weeks, so I thought this would be a great place to share some advice with them and anyone else that wants to read on. I don’t think of myself as someone who always offers the best advice. I listen better than I speak. I don’t have all the answers, but I’m happy to share some of my experience and things I like to think I know. I’m also a firm believer in “keeping it real.” When my daughter, Emily, moved to her college campus, my advice for her was summed up in three words… “Don’t Be Stupid.”
I won’t say anything like “Don’t Drink.” Instead, I will say “If you choose to drink, don’t set your drink down and don’t drive.” I won’t say “Make a plan.” I will say “It’s great to have a plan but be ready for change and know that it’s ok to change your mind.” I would also encourage each of you to live with intentionality. Don’t let anyone tell you what’s important. Make your own decisions. Use your talents. Make a difference. Learn to say no when you need to. Chase your dreams. Grow in faith. Try new things. Build relationships and connections. Never be afraid to ask for help.
Graduation is hard. Life is hard and unpredictable, but it’s also a journey. You learn and grow with each experience. As a baby, you learn to crawl and then walk. You don’t go through the experience without hesitation and even some fear. You don’t learn to walk without developing some patience and trusting in the fact that someone will walk with you or behind you and help you get up when you fall. Winston Churchill said that “Success is not final, and failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts.”
So, here’s a piece of my mind for Aubrey, Jackson, Jacob, and anyone else that wants to listen- take those steps, try to make good choices, and live every day as a gift. Don’t be afraid to fail or fall because no matter what, you have people behind you and beside you that will always love you, including me. And we will always help you get back up. Yes, life is like a box of chocolates. It is a flavorful journey with a grand assortment of experiences. You never know what you’re gonna get, so make some memories as you go.
