Today my oldest son graduates from high school. A couple of months ago major milestones seemed to begin approaching in rapid succession. College acceptance letters, senior pictures, cap and gown arrival, sports banquets, and the last day of school all resulted in a sense of completion. 

As I am privileged to have this front-row seat to the series of events quickly moving him into adulthood, I find myself wondering if I instructed him in the way the Lord wanted. I have had this feeling of wanting to impart instructions to him. I believe this comes from his increased independence, and the feeling that my influence in his life diminishing. My prayer has been that as my influence decreases the influence of the Holy Spirit would become even greater.

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As a writer, I like to jot down thoughts in different places so over the last month I began to write down little things or life lessons I would want to make sure he knew. I did this as checklist therapy for myself. But when I compiled the list from all my post-it notes and notepads, I realized I had quite a sweet little piece of advice for my graduate and maybe for yours too!

• Be independent, but learn to rely on God and the godly people he puts in your path. 
• Listen to your parent’s advice, but let your Heavenly Father’s voice always be louder. 
• Speak words about your Savior, but let others see Him in your actions as well.
• Remember who you are, but don’t forget about others.
• Strive for excellence, but stay humble.
• Get things done, but don’t rush.
• Know you will make mistakes, and when you do figure out what God wants you to learn from them.
• Make plans, but be spontaneous enough to enjoy an unexpected adventure.
• Use good manners, but don’t judge those who don’t. 
• Speak with good grammar, but more importantly speak with gentleness. 
• Work hard, but not so hard that you don’t take the time to play.
• Set goals as high as the mountain tops, and while you’re climbing take as many people with you as possible.
• Know it’s okay to be competitive sometimes, but be kind all the time.
• Take time to hear people’s words, but listen with your heart to know what they truly are saying. 
• Serve those around you, and do it without the expectations of return. 
• Spend time with people who sharpen your relationship with Christ, then take time to be with those who need sharpening.
• If you don’t know something ask, but make sure your answer is coming from a good source.
• Treat people with respect, even those who you feel don’t deserve it. Your respect may help them rise to the occasion. 
• Read your Bible and call your mom. 

Know you will make mistakes, and when you do figure out what God wants you to learn from them.

Marcy Martin @inthequiver #graduation #adviceformygraduate

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Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord.

•Proverbs 16:20•

Congratulations to the class of 2021!