This past fall I got a call from the president’s office from Central Michigan University, my alma mater. They asked me if I would give the commencement address this coming spring 2018. My first response was to laugh out loud. My second respond was gratitude AND fear! I actually took a couple of days to think it over, this would be a huge undertaking! I’d be speaking publicly to thousands of people! I must add that public speaking has always been one of my biggest fears. I have since gotten much better at it through practice and perseverance. Well, I ended up taking on the challenge as it was an honor that I could not possibly pass up! Shortly after the call, I received a letter formally congratulating me on a Doctorate of Public Service they wanted to give me the day of graduation. I couldn’t believe it! My eyes welled up at the thought that someone would think I deserved this esteemed privilege.
I started to get to work on my speech. As I reflected on the 25 years since I left CMU, I was a bit overwhelmed to think how my life has been shaped and all of the things that had happened. I wanted my speech to be relatable, funny and inspiring. Once my speech was done I practiced over and over again. By the time the commencement address rolled around, I was ready. I was excited and anxious for the day’s events.
As I sat in the chair waiting to give my speech, I was reflecting on my life and what I was going to say to the soon to be alumni. There was so much that had happened since my time at CMU. Some of the most profound changes in my life came from when I took a risk, opened myself up to new experiences and never gave up on my dreams. Tidbits of advice that I wanted to share with these young adults. When I approached the podium all fear and anxiety left me. I was so grateful to be there. I wanted to embrace the moment. I was ready to share my experiences in hopes of inspiring them. It was wonderful being able to look them in the eye and tell them that life is going to be okay. I told them to be patience with themselves, take risks and follow their dreams no matter what others may say. I believe taking risks is what makes life richer. I wanted them to know that no matter how scared and afraid you can be, it is important to not let it swallow up or paralyze you from reaching your fullest potential. I also shared that they have to look around them and help others where they are called and it can be a wonderfully healthy addiction.
Getting my Honorary Doctorate in Public Service and giving the commencement address at my alma mater will be a day I will never forget. I look back on that day as a gift. As I continue to move forward in my life I will always take risks, follow my dreams and never give up… because it is always worth it! With graduation and open house season upon us, what tidbits of advice would you offer to young people?
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