You Have 3 Very Special Choices To Make

Source: Pinterest (Anonymous User)

Despite initial protests, the Wellesley College graduates heard a commencement address from Mrs. Barbara Bush, who was the current First Lady of the United States. In her address (watch, read), she reflected on her first visit, ten years prior, and described the beauty and spirit of the campus. She was a gracious guest and honored to speak.

Then she challenged the Class of 1990 to “consider making three very special choices”.

FIRST

“The first is to believe in something larger than yourself ... to get involved in some of the big ideas of our time.” Mrs. Bush chose “literacy because I honestly believe that if more people could read, write and comprehend, we would be that much closer to solving so many of the problems that plague our nation and our society.”

What is your big idea? What is your bigger than life challenge? What problems do you want to solve? As you search for these answers and pray that your “heart might be enlightened” (Ephesians 1:18), you’ll begin to discover your higher calling.

SECOND

The second choice is to “have joy. [Life is] supposed to be fun!” She said she married George Bush “because he made me laugh.”

The career and college planning process will have stressful moments. But don’t allow those issues take away your joy and laughter. As Paul wrote throughout his letter to the Philippians: “rejoice in the Lord!” Have fun exploring! Have fun living!

THIRD

“The third choice that must not be missed is to cherish your human connections: your relationships with family and friends,” said Mrs. Bush.

These relationships make living for something larger than yourself easier. And they make it fun! Your career as a registered nurse, elementary teacher, bookstore manager, or a small-business owner will teach you discipline, hard work, and how to earn a living. To make your career worthwhile, you need to learn how to develop healthy relationships.

As Mrs. Bush said, “you are a human being first and those human connections --- with spouses, with children, with friends -- are the most important investments you will ever make.”

FINALLY

Students, as the former First Lady Barbara Bush shared, you have three special choices to make. You don't have to wait until you graduate college. Start now.

Find your big idea.

Never lose your laugh.

And stay connected.

​I can help you do all three.

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