As our neighbors' daughter, Drew, graduated from Ottawa Hills High School, my thoughts returned to the day my daughter, Bridgette, graduated from Notre Dame Academy, and I recalled what I had written on that occasion. Back then, blogs were unheard of, but today in 2012, on Drew's graduation, I can share the same thoughts I had on Bridgette's.
It is a wish of mine
on this graduation day
That you may continue the search,
knowing the prize is often elusive..
That you may continue the struggle,
knowing victories are often hollow.
That you may achieve peace,
knowing it is temporary.
That you may build love,
knowing it will need constant attention.
That you may climb the mountain,
knowing you must descend.
That you may build an Eiffel Tower,
knowing it will rust.
That you may write poetry,
knowing it will be misunderstood.
That you may soar into space,
knowing the danger of re-entry.
That you may give birth,
knowing it is the beginning of death.
That you may design a cathedral,
knowing another is designing a bomb.
That you may embrace life,
knowing that it too will pass.
And, it is also a wish of mine:
that you will laugh more
than you cry
that you will win more
than you lose
that you will create more
than you destroy
that you will pray more
than you curse
that you will hope more
than you despair
that you will love more
than you hate.
And, if I may have one last wish,
may it be this:
that you always hold your head as high
as it is on this commencement day.
2 comments:
Ron, Great Poem, I was moved. Thanks for sharing it.
Gene
You were once a dreamer,
On your graduation, you’re an achiever.
My best graduation wishes to all graduates!
Congratulations!
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