Graduation day causes mixed emotions, even more than the beginning of a new relationship. For some it brings pure joy and excitement while others feel a large pit in their stomach, petrified for what the "real world" has in store. Graduates do not fear the future, you are ready to take on the challenges that life is going to throw at you. Here are some quotes from some of your childhood to help you through embark on this new journey.
1. "You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose. You’re on your own. And you know what you know. You are the guy who’ll decide where to go." - Dr. Seuss
Dr. Seuss reminds those heading into the real world that you are perfectly capable of functioning out there. I know it is a foreign world, but you can do it.
2. "All our dreams can come true... if we have the courage to pursue them." - Walt Disney
Don't be afraid to take risks out there, it's going to be a new world full of adventure and excitement. Walt Disney reminds us to dream big, believe in those dreams and start chasing them.
3. "All it takes is faith and trust." - Peter Pan
Now, heading into the real world also requires you to take on adult responsibilities. When things get tough and you don't know where to turn, just remember Peter and Tinkerbelle telling you to have faith. Don't forget to carry that little bit of pixie dust in your back pocket!
4. "I've got to find my way, and I will survive some way." - Tarzan
The real world might feel like the jungle that Tarzan grew up in. You might feel as though you're on your own surviving in a place with wild animals. But remember you're going to survive. You'll figure out the adjustments.
5. "Look inside yourself. You are more than what you have become." - Mufasa
When things in life get so stressful that you want to give up and cry, remember to take a step back and really reflect. You have made it this far. You have made it through the stresses of college, the drama of high school, the early mornings in middle school, the boys having cooties in elementary school... you did it. You are graduating and you are going to be doing what you love. Be proud of yourself.
6. "The most fantastic magical thing can happen, and it all starts with a wish." - Jiminy Cricket
When life challenges you, and it will for sure, take a step back and make a wish. Wish for something positive, something attainable.
7. "Just keep swimming." - Dory
Dory, you may have memory loss, but you sure are a genius. Dory got lost a million times in the movie "Finding Nemo," but she never gave up. She never gave up hope that her and Marlin were going to find Nemo. When life gets tough, just keep swimming.
8. "If you keep on believing the dreams that you wish will come true." - Cinderella
Never give up on your dreams. Cinderella never gave up on hers. She worked so hard to get to the ball and then dreamed that she would be reunited with her prince. You're never going to be too old to dream and believe in your dreams.
9. "In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun." - Mary Poppins
Bills, taxes, work, ugh. Adult responsibilities are not something that we look forward to, but reward yourself when the job is done. Get dinner and drinks with your friends. Have a night out on the town. Remember Mary Poppins always said to have fun!
10. "I am on my way. I can go the distance." - Hercules
Some of you may look like Hercules pictured above when you get your diploma. You're on your way to bigger and better things now! You can do it!
11. "The only way to get what you want in this world is through hard work." - Tiana
Princess Tiana had to work her way onto the Disney screen which is why she reminds us that we have to work hard.
12. "Oh yes, the past can hurt. But the way I see it, you can either run from it or learn from it." - Rafiki
You are going to make mistakes in the real world, but it is how you react to these mistakes that is going to make or break you.
13. "Our fate lies within us. You only have to be brave enough to see it." - Merida
You can do this! Go out there and be brave!
14. "Remember, you're the one who can fill the world with sunshine." - Snow White
Remember the wise words of Walt Disney, "Adults are only kids grown up, anyway." You're off to conquer the world. You can do it.