The month of May brings to the finish line all of the High School and College/University seniors as they graduate. It is a time to reflect upon what was accomplished over the years and to look to the future for new paths to walk. Many lessons have been learned, some by design and others by default.  Over are the structured days from start to finish of being guided by educators whom we hope are there to teach, inspire and bring out the best in our children.

 

As High School students decide what they want to do or become in the future, parents find themselves needing to let go and allow the foundation, upon which the child was brought up, to be the guide for the new destinations they are choosing. We want to continue to shelter and protect them from ever being in harm’s way in thought, word and deed. Our faith holds us steadfast in the plans for our child’s future as stated in Jerimiah 29:11, For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. What wonderful confirmations from our Lord that our children can take hold and go into the future strengthened by the conviction to Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. (Joshua 1:9) 

God has blessed us as parents with the gift of children and by giving us this awesome privilege to raise our children to follow His path for a future of success through Him. As parents we never really completely let go, but we do lighten the reigns and allow new bricks to be added to the foundation laid in the Lord from their birth. We give praise and prayers for patience and understanding as their new futures are being built one day at a time. Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. (Proverbs 3:5-6)

God’s blessing to all the parents and students for all the hard work and sacrifices that were made to get to this glorious graduation day. The future is brighter than ever for all of you through Christ Jesus, the greatest teacher, our Lord and Savior.

Linette Feltes, BSN, RN

St Paul Lutheran Church

Parish Nurse

Rochelle, Illinois