For the Class of 2008

Its hard to believe that all around us, newly diplomaed high school graduates are being released unto the world. Look out. Trust me, I've seen these kids for the past 4 years and you are not ready for them.

But for the class of 2008, I do have some advice. I've stood in front of our school every morning for the last two years and preached to them the importance of thank yous, you're welcomes, and a profanity-free vocabulary. Here is my last installment of this year's words of wisdom...

• Read. There are things that you cannot possibly find out in the real world, things that are only afforded to you through a book. Open one up every now and then and see you life be enriched beyond your wildest imagination.
• On that same note, read to your children. You will save them some of the heartache that you have suffered as students if you just open a book for them early in life. Show them the power of the written word and remind them of it daily. They will soar as high as you will let them.
• Wear sunscreen. This advice was given to the class of '99 in a fairly popular song of the time. It has not dimished in its power--wear sunscreen. Some of you will be alligator hides in a matter of years. Seal the lid of your tanning bed, put on at least some 15, and take care of the skin that you are stuck with for the rest of your life. If nothing else, look at Priscilla Presley as your Glamour Don't--plastic surgery CAN ruin your life.
• Open-toed shoes are great. Pairing them with panty hose or tights is your worst idea yet. Go with one or the other. No matter what the fashion mags say, let your cute pedi show!
• Invest in a nice set of slips. A nude, a white, a black...maybe more than one of each color. Some may tell you that these are out of date as well, but they aren't. Buy one that fits properly and it will give you a nice smooth line in your dresses. (BTW--don't look for them at Target. Apparently they don't have enough demand for them and they don't carry them anymore.)
• Learn something new every day. The world does not end at high school. There is much more to be learned and gained out there. Get out and explore and learn all that you can about the world around you.
• Look both ways before you cross the street. Look before you leap. Think about the lifelong implications of the day to day decisions that you make. Taking that path may not seem big now, but how will it effect you later on in life?
• Be kind. Above all else, be kind. Good karma will surround you for all of your days and will bless you endlessly.

So, that's it. That's my recipe for a good start to the next phase in life. This does not guarantee success. If you want that, stir in some hard work, diligence, and perseverance. At this day, the world is at your fingertips. But you have to be the one to get up and grab it.