I was really inspired over the weekend, attending ceremonies to mark my nephew's graduation from Villanova University.  Don't laugh but I actually took notes, wanting to remember some of the great soundbites from the different speeches!

A theme that ran through many of them was "new beginnings."  The word "commencement" refers to "a time when something begins."  Because many graduates feel a bit sad about the end of their college life...how they'll be missing their friends...it helped to be reminded that this is a new beginning.  "It's the first day of the rest of your life," said one speaker.

Another encouraged students to take what they learned and experienced at college and use it in the next chapter of their lives.

The featured speaker, former NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg, reassured some uncertain grads when he shared that he didn't know what he wanted to do professionally, even after getting out of business school.  His words had a hopeful, character-building theme that included "loving work is a big part of loving life."

Words of wisdom shared by other speakers included:

See challenge as opportunity.

Make every second count.

Help heal others but first heal yourself.

Stop texting others when you're with people.

Parents give you roots.  School gives you wings.

I hope those words and any you may have heard at graduations over the weekend inspire you to have a great week!  Congratulations to all college grads!

 

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