It seems to get harder every year seeing the seniors leave to embark on their newest journey.
You were just starting sixth grade beginning your venture at the middle school when I started at The Clarkston News.
It seemed to quick as I watched all of you collect your graduation caps and gowns on your last day of school before you took your final walk through Clarkston High School on May 20.
I hope through the years you learned – you learned through your triumphs but most importantly you learned through your defeats.
I hope you continue to learn and know if you get knocked down to just wipe the dirt off and get right back up.
So what is my gift to you – words.
“Never allow the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.” ~Babe Ruth
If you want to try something, try it. Don’t be afraid to do it. You won’t know what is going to happen. No one does. But take the chance and see what happens.
Some of the best twists in my life have happened just by taking a leap and not letting fear keep me away from the wonderous possibilities which might be right around the corner.
Be your own inspiration.
Here are a few more words, these are from a few people you might have gotten to know through the years. They were spoken during the Clarkston High School Commencement, June 2.
Dr. Rod Rock, Clarkston Community Schools Superintendent: “You inspire me.”
Gary Kaul, Clarkston High School Principal: “Now is the time to continue… You can be whatever you want. Be kind, determined, tough, compassionate…”
Kurt Richardson, Clarkston Wolves Varsity Football Head Coach and Clarkston High School Physical Education teacher: “This truly is a class of champions. The class of 2014 set a new standard. Do three things: remember your roots and remember things you learned; dare to dream and follow those dreams – fear is an illusion; follow your passion and find your niche.”
There you go – you have your words. Keep it around and put on a post-it.
Keep us updated – if not, your parents and your grandparents probably will.
Congrats Class of 2014. Now go show the world what you are made of!