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| Kunsman Wedding - Madison, WI - 7/24/10 |
Before that big wedding day we acquire many qualities as we grow up on how to show compassion, love, patience, and support for someone other than ourselves. These become integral as life begins to happen soon after exchanging vows. It doesn't take long before these "tests" begin to show up, and they usually take form in the shape of needing a new transmission in the car, balancing a mortgage and utilities, replacing a water heater, or preparing for babies. The qualities we have learned along the way and the compassion, support, and commitment a husband and wife have for one another becomes far more important than the topper that we choose for the cake or the table arrangement at the reception. Don't get me wrong, neatly wrapped toasters, party favors, and photographers are great; however, these things quickly fade and give way to team decisions on a journey through life.
Another journey that is happening across the country as we head toward Memorial Day Weekend includes high school graduates that are about to walk across the stage, flip their tassels, and embark on their post-secondary dreams. In the meantime parents and family members are anxiously making preparations to throw a celebration for 14 or more years of hard work and learning that has taken place up to this point. Much like the newlywed couple, the graduating seniors will soon be embarking on many new challenges, and those that have made an impression on their lives can't help but wonder what kind of successes they will attain along the way. Just as couples build qualities before walking down the aisle, as educators and parents we have the important task of doing more than just throwing parties and getting that diploma in their hands. We must focus on setting our young people up for success after graduation where they can be life-long learners in an ever-changing global society. New graduates will have many challenges and opportunities before them, some beyond which we can even fathom, as our world becomes more saturated with technology and collaboration on a daily basis. Let's be sure to give our students the 21st Century Skills they will need along with the ability to persevere with whatever might come their way. So let the rice and confetti fall as we head into a summer of new beginnings, as we can be assured the work we have done up to this point will lead to a lifetime of purpose and success.
Another journey that is happening across the country as we head toward Memorial Day Weekend includes high school graduates that are about to walk across the stage, flip their tassels, and embark on their post-secondary dreams. In the meantime parents and family members are anxiously making preparations to throw a celebration for 14 or more years of hard work and learning that has taken place up to this point. Much like the newlywed couple, the graduating seniors will soon be embarking on many new challenges, and those that have made an impression on their lives can't help but wonder what kind of successes they will attain along the way. Just as couples build qualities before walking down the aisle, as educators and parents we have the important task of doing more than just throwing parties and getting that diploma in their hands. We must focus on setting our young people up for success after graduation where they can be life-long learners in an ever-changing global society. New graduates will have many challenges and opportunities before them, some beyond which we can even fathom, as our world becomes more saturated with technology and collaboration on a daily basis. Let's be sure to give our students the 21st Century Skills they will need along with the ability to persevere with whatever might come their way. So let the rice and confetti fall as we head into a summer of new beginnings, as we can be assured the work we have done up to this point will lead to a lifetime of purpose and success.
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