Every May, students around the country throw on the cap and gown, march in single file to Pomp and Circumstance, and move their tassel. This year, my son will be one of those students, except I guarantee he and his friends won’t quite get the single file thing down, he probably will pull his cap off immediately, and Pomp and Circumstance isn’t nearly as cool as Encanto. That’s right, Kindergarten graduation is a real treat, but it doesn’t make it any less a moment for this sappy mom.
I can’t believe he is already heading to first grade. I remember my mom telling me how quickly time flies, but she is right. It’s lightning-fast. I’m not even sure my son will remember this moment, but here’s my wish to him on his Kindergarten graduation.
Dream Big
Oh yea, I went there. I started it right off with the traditional graduation cliché. But what parent doesn’t want their child to dream big. Nothing is off-limits, buddy, and I want you to dream big and work hard to achieve those dreams. You will find that life is filled with roadblocks, but I am here to support you and move mountains for you to get there and beyond.
Be Kind
I can’t say this enough. Use kind words to others and yourself. Make friends and then make some more because you can never have too many amazing people in your life. Be kind and show them the amazing boy you are every day. And be kind to yourself. Forgive, don’t hold grudges, and know that you are human and will make mistakes. Believe in yourself.
Try Something New
Remember what happened when you started eating school lunches you’ve never had before? You fell in love with chicken sandwiches, Bosco sticks, and school pizza! Just think about all the things you could do if you continued to try something new…and I’m not just talking about lunches. Try a new sport, club, activity, learn Spanish, chess, or even hockey. Talk to the new kid, read a new book, or comb your hair differently. I want you to look back on your life at your next graduation and know you have no regrets. Every new experience will shape you for the better.
Give Back
This is a big one. Giving back to others is one of the biggest things I hope you continue to do well into your adult life. You are a fortunate young man, and I hope you see that sharing with others, whether it’s a toy or your time, is so worthwhile. I will continue to raise you in a house that volunteers, donates, and gives back. And although you are just six, I look forward to sharing those experiences for the rest of my life.
Know You Are Loved
As you stride across the stage in your little cap and gown on graduation day, I’m confident you will be embarrassed, but your parent’s hearts are bursting. We couldn’t be prouder of the young man you are and will be. We love you and can’t wait to see what is next for you. It will be quite a journey, and I am excited to be in the front row.