Graduation is just the beginning

One thing I didn’t look forward to my senior year was walking down our football field in front of thousands of people during my high school graduation at Romeoville High School in 2005.

One reason was the amount of students graduating in my class. My class was about 400 students.

I just knew that it was going to take forever and a day to get to my name even though my name was in the front of the line.

In my mind, I was like, what if I had to go to the bathroom? Would I have to wait til the end of the ceremony? Or could I just parkour off the stage and use the port-o-john behind the bleachers?

Another thing I had going against me is the fact that I hadn’t been in school for half a year, because I graduated a semester early in order to start working. Don’t get me wrong, it was good seeing classmates that I grew up with, but I was still nervous.

Ultimately, I did see the significance and importance of receiving my diploma and walking off that stage on that hot and humid day.

It was important because my family was there and being the first graduate of three young men it made my mom and dad very proud.

I do hope to graduate with a collegiate degree one day, however that may take some time, with a child one the way.

Which brings me to my next point students around Phillips County that have just graduated, if a bachelors degree is your goal in college make sure you grab it before you start a family. Your brain and wallet will thank you.

Graduates of Dodson, Malta, Saco and Whitewater, (Hinsdale honorably mentioned) on behalf of the Phillips County News I, Pierre Bibbs, would like to congratulate you. You are the cream of the crop and I know you will make Phillips County proud.

Here comes the preaching...

If you make mistakes be sure to pick yourself up and know there’s always a hand to help you along the way. We’re rooting for you and know you will set the bar high.

Don’t get stuck in the world’s trends because honestly the world is going downhill. Quick. Instead be the difference. I’m sure you’ve already been told to be a leader not a follower now is your chance to prove your worth in today’s society.

Stick to what you know is right and don’t get caught up in drama.

The new found freedom you will experience, can be a gift but it can also lead to your demise.

Always keep your head on a swivel and listen to wisdom.

For those of you, who are planning to serve our country, thank you for your selflessness. This country couldn’t survive without your courage.

For those planning to go to college, be studious and while you may make lifetime friendships, remember bad company will corrupt good character.

Boys, save the video games for weekends. And for the love for everything good, shower daily...

Girls, don’t fall for just any idiot that gives you attention, focus on the prize.

To quote the cult classic film Gladiator:

“Brothers! What we do in life echoes in eternity.

-Maximus Decimus

Meridius

Don’t waste your life and always do your best in everything you do. Dominate.