Graduation

This weekend we are going to see my cousin Emily, age 17, graduate from high school. She is a home schooler and this event will be very intimate with just family and friends. This precious girl has asked me to speak at her graduation. Wow. No pressure huh? I'm not the main attraction - her preacher is - but the fact that she wants me to be part of her big day is humbling. As I started searching for just the right poem, bible verse, etc. to say I stumbled upon a list of the top 15 things to remember. Ding! The little light bulb over my head lit up and I decided to write the top 15 things Emily should remember. Granted, I have only lived 39 years, but I have discovered quite a bit since I was 17. If I'd only known then what I know now. "Squirrel" (That's what I say when I get off track) Ok ... back on track. Here are my top 15 things for my 17 year old cousin to remember as she embarks on a new chapter of her life
Fifteen Things for Emily to Remember
1.God loves you.
2.A person who is nice to you, but rude to a waiter is not a nice person.
3.Do not confuse falling in love with God as being religious.
4.Try really hard not to compare yourself to other women. God loves you exactly the way you are.
5.If you’re sad, go buy a new purse – contrary to what men say – it does make you feel better.
6.Go to your favorite restaurant at LEAST once a month.
7.Enjoy every minute of life – even when it’s tough.
8.Before making a huge decision go the Lord and say “This is what I want Lord, but if it’s not your will for me then change my heart.” This is a powerful prayer and must only be spoken when you are truly surrendered to what HE wants.
9.RIDE ROLLER COASTERS!
10.When your favorite song comes on sing it LOUD – no matter where you are.
11.Hug your parents and grandparents a lot. They know you’re grown, but no matter how much you want to be a big girl – you’ll always be their baby.
12.Jesus gave us two commands. You will have many questions in your life – if you can stay focused on these two commands the peace of Christ will reign in your heart. They are ... 1. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind. 2. Love your neighbor as yourself.
13.UNC is better than Duke (JUST KIDDING) Seriously, follow your dreams and don’t second guess what God has put in your heart.
14.Give to those less fortunate in anyway you can.
15.Remember that you are a miracle of God and His plans and purposes for you are perfect.
Jeremiah 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."