pomp and circumstance in jeffersonville, ind.
May 30th, 2006
Life is too important to be taken seriously.
- Oscar Wilde
I attended my niece’s high school graduation ceremony this weekend.
While watching, I couldn’t help but be amused by the myriad of expressions on the faces of the new grads as they accepted their diplomas. Serious. Fun-loving. Uncaring. You name it. And in the course of the event, I also couldn’t help but think back to my own graduation and my own demeanor at the time. In review, I was undoubtedly one of the overly-serious grads.
But what was I so serious about?
I think my seriousness was due to the fact that I thought that’s what the world expected. That serious people become seriously successful. And that, of course, is what every 18-year-old boy wants … or at least this one.
A lot has changed since then. Somewhere between high school, college, corporate America and starting my own business, I think I’ve found the secret to success: Having fun.
Now, don’t get me wrong. I’m not the Poster Boy for The Slacker Generation. I’m not talking about being passionate about eating Cheerios (although competitive eating is a way to make a good living). I’m talking about finding something you’re greatly passionate about that the world needs. Then just do it. Love doing it. It won’t even seem like work. If you’re passionate about something, people will gravitate toward you. The opportunities and money will follow.
I know too many people who chase money for money’s sake. Disappointment usually ensues, because money, as the cliche goes, doesn’t buy happiness. How many well-to-do lawyers do you know who hate their profession, let alone their job?
So, to all those weekend grads, don’t take life too seriously. We’re all blessed with gifts that make us unique, special. Find your gifts. Fall in love with your gifts. Be passionate, live and have fun. Life’s too short not to.
June 2nd, 2006 at 2:16 pm
PREACHIN TO THE CHOIR JOEL !!