Commencement

choosing happiness freedom hope jesus joy

Today is graduation day at our local high school, and the word "commencement" is on my mind. 

The dictionary defines the word "commencement" as "a beginning or start." While I'm sure some high school students would rather call it "conclusion," the focus is very much on the new chapter. I love how much hope we can find in that idea. 

What if we had a daily commencement? Not with the full cap and gown regalia (though I won't judge -- and might have to join you -- if you do), but with an attitude of beginning. This is possible, because of Christ. 

We can start fresh each morning, with enthusiasm and curiosity about the road ahead and who we'll meet on it. We can put yesterday behind us, tying it up with a big gold bow, even if it was totally crummy. We can look in the mirror and be delighted at what we see, because this is the home for our spirit that gets to learn and explore and grow. 

Whether you do it daily or much less frequently, I hope you do choose to try it. I will, too.

Here's to commencing commencement!