Memo to the Class of 1999

This being the season of graduation, and since we are living in a age where our greatest lessons came from kindergarten, here are a few brief thoughts that may help you along the way. The woman who said, “Wear sunscreen” had a good point. But its not a big deal if you dont.

Life is short. It probably doesnt seem that way today, but soon enough youll look back and wonder where the years went.

Find your passion and then follow it. God never wastes anything, especially not the desires he puts inside your heart. Find out what you like to do, learn how to do it well, and then spend the rest of your life doing it. Figure out what you wont do and then dont do it. Youll be happy you didnt. Stand up for what you believe is righteven if you have to stand alone.

Make a list of the things youd like to do before you retire. Put the list where you can find it every few years so you can see how youre doing. Thirty years from now the list will give you a good laugh.

Honor your parents. God promised a special blessing when you do, and they deserve it. Even if you dont think they do, they do, and even if they dont, you need to do it anyway.

Keep a journal. Over the years you will be able to trace Gods fingerprints in your life.

Smile. Life is too short (see above) not to enjoy each day. Always have some duct tape handy. And a 3×5 card. Trust me on this.

Memo to guys: Girls are mysterious. This will not change over the years. Memo to girls: Guys dont have a clue. Never have, never will.

Learn how to write well and how to speak in public. If you can do those two things, you will always be able to find a job.

A good questionWhat would Jesus do? Another good questionHow would my parents handle this? Another good questionHow will I feel about this tomorrow? Another good questionWhat if my family and friends could see me now?

Success isnt final and failure isnt fatal. Popularity is overrated and jealousy doesnt satisfy. Pray every day to become the person God wants you to be.

Its okay to say “I love you” to those who mean the most to you.

Remember the First Rule of the Spiritual Life: Hes God and were not.

Congratulations to the Class of 1999. May your dreams be greater than your memories.