I love watching the smiling faces parade single-file into the ceremony. The excitement is palpable as the graduates take their seats. I can’t help but chuckle when I notice “Hi Mom!” pinned to the top of one hat or “Done!” on another in pink duck tape. It truly is a day to be commemorated.

My favorite part of graduation is listening to the commencement speeches. Typically, a well-known guest speaker, perhaps even a celebrity, will impart wisdom to the graduate’s itchy ears. While these speeches are well-thought-out, the speaker relying on their gift of hindsight and life experience, I enjoy the words offered by the class representative.

In most cases, this is the valedictorian or class president, whom the study body respects and admires. These graduates impart wisdom and encouragement not from experience but from anticipating the future. Graduation ends one season of life and starts another. There are numerous decisions, paths, and choices. The prayer is always that they choose well, a sentiment that is echoed in many commencement speeches.

All graduations should be celebrated and cherished, but if you have a high school or college graduate in your circle, may you pray these prayers over their life.