Published: May 08, 2008 11:25 am      

A little scary...

A sigh of relief is escaping many seniors’ lips, “Finally, it’s over. I’m free!”

Graduating is a relief — no more cramming late nights for the “big test” or pulling out hair trying to compile the “big paper” that is due, but somehow put off to the last minute, or even sitting in those small cramped desks schools find economically efficient. Yeah, high school can be a stressful time, so can college for many of the college grads about to take the final walk. A teacher or professor is always hovering, keeping you on task.

True, the helicopter parent won’t be hanging around anymore. However, grads have to be ready to take care of themselves. That can be a scary thought, especially for parents. The kids are becoming adults and learning how to take responsibility for their own actions. After high school, some grads may turn to college, others may go straight into the work force, or take some time off. Either way, they’re growing up and parents are forced to cope with it.

It can be a scary world out there with questions constantly running through minds. “Am I ready for this?” or “Am I making the right decision?” or even “Do I really want to do this?”

Those questions are intimidating, but be prepared — the rest of your life will be filled with those questions. To answer any doubts about heading out into the real world, one must remember he will never know until he tries. Graduates have the opportunity to choose the life ahead of them and to choose an occupation that is fullfilling and satisfying. A favorite cliché and a sound piece of advice is, “Shoot for the moon. If you miss, you’ll land among the stars.”

Good luck to all the graduates in whatever endeavor you may choose.