Doug Carried Lisa Through Graduation

On Planet College stuff happens on the road to any student's degree. While enrolled part-time and workin Doug learned he was to become a parent. Obligations like family demand a lot so Doug left school to work full-time. When his daughter, Lisa, was born Doug decided that someday, no matter what, he would finish his degree. Holding his tiny newborn in his arms Doug imagined himself carrying Lisa through the University's graduation ceremony. When time allowed Doug re-enrolled and started back on the road to graduation. Like most students stuff happened and the road became longer. Doug finished what courses he could but the road became longer, much longer than he had forseen. All the time Doug held the image of carrying Lisa through the ceremony. Eventually Doug did graduate. And when he did Lisa was nine. Still Doug did carry Lisa through the ceremony. When his name was called Doug had asked the graduation announcer to include "and Lisa" in the announcement. Doug proudly walked across the stage, his daughter's pretty red dress and matching red hair ribbons contrasting with Doug's flowing blue graduation gown. Doug received his diploma and shook hands with the President and the Dean. So did Lisa. Everyone beamed. It had been a long road but in that moment Doug knew it was all worth it.

How about you? Have you got somebody you'd like to carry, figuratively if not literally through your graduation ceremony? Perhaps the thought of someone who is very special to you can be an inspiration over the long, long road that Planet College often becomes. When you feel discouraged think of them. Or think of Doug and Lisa. They made it. And so can you.