Graduation in the Midst of a Pandemic

I remember my high school graduation...even though is was decades ago. The before and after parties, pictures with friends and family on the field, the speeches that I thought would never end, and the incredible feeling of shaking the principle's hand as he handed me my diploma and we smiled for the camera. High school graduation is a very special time in our life. It marks a great ending and signifies new beginnings. For some it's the end of school and the beginning of adult life in the work place, for others it's the beginning of college life and for some, it means the start of serving our country in the military.

Now as a parent, I've watched three of my kids celebrate as they stepped down from the stage, diploma in hand. I've wiped tears of pride away as I filmed them in cap and gown. And because of that, my heart is broken for all those kids who won't get to experience that exhilarating moment this year. I can only imagine their disappointment at being robbed of their senior rite.

If you have a high school senior in your family I hope you'll find some unique ways to make this a special time for them despite Covid-19. Let them know their graduation is still one of the major milestones in their life and marks the beginning of transition to adulthood. Tell them how proud you are in their great accomplishment and how excited you are about their future. Show them that in the midst of uncertainty and chaos, your support and love for them is unwavering.

Congratulations to the Class of 2020! A class like no other. Whether you get to walk across the stage or not...You did it and we're proud of you! You deserve the spotlight and the attention because you've earned it. We wish you all the best and know that you have an amazing future ahead of you.