I have noticed a shift in our culture over the past few years, yet have not read any critique by those who make their living criticizing such things. So allow me to direct your thoughts in this culture shift. The shift occurs in what people say during graduation speeches.

For years it seemed that graduation speeches and baccalaureate addresses centered around pursuit of your dreams. Perhaps this was hangover from the Vietnam era when many young soldiers were killed before they could fulfill their dreams. Graduates were encouraged to “go for it.” But lately when I read graduation speeches, they seem to be filled with a common message – “quit your whining, and work your tail off.” This perhaps is hangover from the 80s when new parents had signs in the window of their minivan declaring “Baby on Board”. Such signage led some to believe those born in the 80s are the most cared for generation of all time. 

With students graduating from high school and college, what message shall we send them? What message will they hear from the church? Do we squash their “go for it” dreams and invite them to come work their tails off? Do we equip them to fulfill their dreams and teach them hard work pays off? The other question is “what do they teach us?” What message do they want us to hear?

Somewhere in this tension is our need to teach and learn from one another, so that we might continue to fulfill our mission of making disciples. Somewhere in this tension is another step to the fulfillment of our vision to be a loving, caring, overcoming community of faith centered in Christ Jesus. Take time to hug a graduate and congratulate them on their accomplishment! And let them know that we belong together because we belong to God!

Grace and peace, D.A. dabennett