It’s graduation time and ceremonies and protocols are dramatically different.
As difficult as that is, there is always a silver lining.
This time boasts a chance to adapt.
A chance to go inward about what the accomplishments have been.
To have more of a thoughtful time to look at what’s next, unencumbered by the pull of “June Fever”.
The highs and lows have alchemized into more of a stasis, where we are developing muscles for distance, not sprints.
Between video games, technology, and long term viruses we are understanding the process and next levels, not finish lines and goals.
We are being driven to continual beginnings, rather than transitory ends.
My advice for Graduates, of all ages…
Breck’s Rules for Life: Observations and Suggestions
Let people come and go. Love them when they are here and love them when they are gone.
Be current. Just don’t go with the current.
Some people look good in hats, some don’t. Reconcile this early on so you don’t keep thinking, “Well maybe this one…” Sunglasses get a hall pass… we all need to wear them.
Let people think what they want to think about you. They will anyway.
Always surround yourself with people who will tell you the truth.
FOR MEN: You cannot go shirtless in a convertible after 25 years old, no matter what shape you are in.
Also along those lines no wife-beaters after 45 years old.
And no wife-beaters ever if you are hairy.
Stay open. Look to be surprised every day.
Embrace the breakdowns, that’s where the education is.
Don’t be jealous of what others have, be curious about how they got it.
Your fantasies have to die in order for your dreams to come true.
Don’t keep secrets. Keep confidences.
Love is the ability to cry publicly, laugh uncontrollably, and have your heart broken consistently.
A good life lesson: don’t get so hung up on the lyrics, enjoy the music.
Great partnerships are like bamboo. They grow fast. They are strong but they also have the ability to bend.
Faith is not a passive state.
Don’t look at the glass as half empty. And don’t look at the glass as half full. Look at the properties of the water.
If revenge really worked, I would have done it long ago.
Be more concerned with your character than your reputation.
Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.
Don’t try and be Happy. Happy is a manic state that’s hooked up to circumstances. Look to be joyful. Joy has to do with enjoying all that life throws at you.
There is no light at the end of the tunnel, get out the flashlight, and make some light.
Don’t be arrogant about what you have, be grateful for the time you have it because it will most certainly change.
Talk to a person’s chewy center-you will get the best part of them.