Take It With You 05.22.2022

Dear Graduates, this is written from a parent to a child, but the sentiments reflect how we, your church family, feel as you turn the page to the next exciting chapter of your life.

A Letter to my Graduate – by Dean Goodson

I cannot buy you a set of morals;
I cannot build you a sense of responsibility;
I cannot hand you appreciation of beauty;
I cannot manufacture for you concern and compassion;
I cannot make yours a compelling, faithful, loyal spirit;
I cannot give you the ability to love.

I have no fortune to will you with which to gain you popularity,
Make you a philanthropist or help you leave memorials for charity.

I own no secret formula for success nor any new philosophy.
I’ve never written a book of wisdom.

I cannot send you away into the world on your own
with beautiful pictures only in your memory,
For you have seen me shake my fist in anger;
You have witnessed ugliness in my times of weakness.

As you accept your diploma, severing your relations with high school,
You step into new relationships with parents, friends, and the world.
The “apron-strings,” that have been lengthened as you matured,
Must soon be cut.

You have earned more than freedom from high school,
You have proven yourself trustworthy, dependable,
And mature enough to try on your own wings;
But I will be “on call” throughout my lifetime.

You are fully accountable to God your Heavenly Father,
Who loves you far more than I;
Who has riches in store beyond your comprehension;
But who expects much, punishes, sees, and knows-
Also beyond your comprehension.

I commit you to His care as the fire of the world
Tests the gold of your character-
And I will be in prayer.

~ Katie Herring