My heart goes out to recent graduates, whether from high school or university.
Almost, But...
Just as they were about to celebrate the completion of a very long phase of their lives that took a lot out of them (and hopefully put at least a few good things into them) all large celebrations were cancelled.
Just as they were about to enter the world of work for the first time with real intention around turning work into a "career," everything shuts down and only low pay "essential jobs" are available, and career track jobs are being clung to by experienced workers who can do them from home. New grads need to be trained. It's harder to train and supervise a new worker remotely than in-person, and suddenly there are a lot of more experienced workers available for entry level jobs that can be done remotely.
Just as they were about to perhaps move to a new city they've always wanted to experience and start creating a community of like-minded friends there that they would hopefully find a sense of belonging with that may have eluded them in the place they were put by their parents, nope, not going anywhere. And if you do go, there will be no meeting strangers in cafes and getting invited to house parties and music/dance events to connect with new friends. There will be anonymity behind a mask and social distancing in the few places open.
This is hard, harder than that transition always is even without a pandemic. My heart goes out to them.
Cheers to You
If you are a 2020 graduate, I share this beautiful song with you. May it remind you that though life sometimes gives us a pretty raw deal, there is in fact a light we can climb toward, and the journey is worthwhile.
Congratulations on your accomplishment so far. Take heart that it really does keep getting better.
Just remember that no matter what you can or cannot do, you are the gift.
It is not what you do for work or what the world calls you. It's not about how impressive your credentials may or may not be.
You are the gift.
Make yourself into something you feel wonderful about gifting to this world. Make your presence fortifying to those who need strength, soothing to those in distress, and inspiring to those filled with doubt.
Live your life for the living of it, not the finish line. And though you cannot escape the tragedy, try not to overlook the beauty.
You have accomplished so much, and that's so beautiful. You are so beautiful.
Move through this world like the blessing that you are, and feel like the blessing that you are.
Thank you for you.
Carry on.