Tip of My Iceberg

Graduation season is upon us, and many are finishing up well, whether it be pre-school with caps and gowns for the littles (just a tad overkill if you ask me), finishing up high school, to graduating from college or doing post-grad work. It’s all about ending well and preparing to move on to the next part of the journey.

I don’t think the transition from where these grads are now to where they want to be has ever been so convoluted. Cultural and technological changes have made the old playbook of strategies and procedures less than effective. There are no guarantees of getting ahead or achieving the goals people once thought so easily attainable.

What hasn’t changed is character. The need for values and dignity, no matter what field or endeavor someone enters, is still a necessity in the workplace. Employers may appreciate creativity and outside-of-the-box thinking, but not if it isn’t accompanied by someone kind, gracious, and faithful to finish the job asked of them.

Teagan and David have been friends for most of their lives. Though not related, both families have embraced the other young man as their own, making for a unique extended family. It was quite fitting that they celebrated graduation together, with family and friends present to honor their accomplishment.

Neither of them has a clear path forward other than wanting to somehow play soccer. Both are young men of character with serious people skills. They’re trustworthy and amazingly responsible for eighteen-year-olds.

They both have compassionate hearts. In a world that would just as soon cancel someone as embrace them, these two know how to be friends. Both of them have a love for Jesus that sets them apart from others. They’re fun and funny, but they’re also loyal and dependable.

It’s their faith that makes them young men of character. They’re not pushy about it, but their demeanor draws others in with their smiles and kindness.

They’re faithful.

Their journey will continue. They may change their minds about what they want to do over the next few years. What interests them now may not be a passion in five years. It will be their character that drives them forward. Abraham Lincoln said it best: “Be sure you put your feet in the right place, then stand firm.”

The Bible has much to say about doing our best, no matter what the situation. The apostle Paul, who underwent all kinds of persecution, including flogging, being shipwrecked, jailed, and thrown over a cliff, understood what it meant to do his best. He wasn’t discouraged by the circumstances he found himself in or what appeared to be setbacks. “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful.” 2 Timothy 4:7.

Character matters. Staying the course matters. People long for those they can trust, those who show respect to others, and offer dignity.

What I appreciate about these two young men is their character. They’re not perfect, but I know I can depend on both of them if need be. They finished high school well; now they’re ready to begin fresh. With faith and faithfulness.

What are you beginning with a fresh hope and faith?