To the graduating class of 2023.

Congratulations!!

You’ve accomplished so much, and each of you should be proud. As parents and members of your community, we certainly are proud of all of you.

The time and effort you’ve put in to get to this point in your life is immeasurable, and we hope you take a few moments to revel in your accomplishments. For at least the past twelve years you’ve worked towards this moment, attending class after class, learning from teacher after teacher, filling page after page with your notes.

Now, after years of late night homework, long days of testing, and untold hours of learning, all that is behind you and endless possibilities lay ahead.

Your future is what you make of it, and it’s yours to do with what you will. Whether you know exactly what you plan to do in your life, or you have no idea what you want to do, it’s all good.

For some college is the path, for others it may include travel, employment, or some other adventure yet to be discovered.

While your future may be uncertain, there is one thing you can be certain about: it’s your life, you are the captain of your ship, your story is yours to tell, and your life is what you make it.

So set forth with courage and conviction, and don’t be afraid of the future.

Take it day by day! Each sunrise is a fresh start, each day a blank slate. Surprise yourself. Try new things. Discover the world around you. Eat new foods, travel to new destinations, meet new people, and enjoy every minute of it.

To this point school has filled your days with endless books, lectures, and tests. This is but one way of learning, and your life to this point has revolved around the educational system and what it has to offer.

Now comes life, in all it’s forms.

As an adult—which you now officially are—there will be ups and downs, unforeseen events and unknown challenges yet to be overcome. When things are going well in your life, savor those moments and revel in the good times. When things are tough, do not despair, instead take the opportunity to learn from your mistakes and know that this too shall pass. But most of all, simply be present in the moment, enjoy this amazing time and in this beautiful place, as life is a journey meant to be lived.

Live it well!