Did We Tell You? A Letter For Your Graduation.
Your Dad was looking through stacks of pictures and papers in the armoire. He found a small, slightly worn book titled "Did I Tell You" by Elizabeth Knapp.
"Did I tell you all that I meant to say to you, all that I felt was important? Did I tell it to you, or was it lost in the shuffle of our everyday lives?" questioned Knapp.
The book was an artifact from my family, who gave it to me at my high school graduation. Can you believe it turned up here in 2024? It inspired your Dad and me to write this letter to you.
Did we tell you people need to experience all of their emotions?
Embrace your feelings of triumph during graduation! It's okay to feel frustrated about some of the upcoming changes. Let sad emotions live large, and then make the mindful choice to take a step forward.
It would take a very long time to list the mistakes we've made and how you can try to avoid them. A better approach is to share Brett's straightforward blueprint for living life to the fullest: work hard, help others, love, laugh, and see the joy in life.
Did we tell you to discover a part of nature that rejuvenates your soul?
For your Dad and me, it's the mountains where we've kayaked and hiked to waterfalls. What place recharges you? We know you like kayaking and swimming, but it can be anything you enjoy. Creating art is also a powerful source of restoration. Ben, you are so creative, from graphic design to pottery-making to everything involving computers.
Did we tell you to cherish your heritage?
Remember where you came from as you discover new places. The stories are the best part. Gram Cracker riding a motorcycle when "ladies didn't do that." Papa went from a working-class family of seven to earning his MBA at Harvard University. No matter what path you choose, think outside the box and consider all possibilities. You can do whatever you set your sights on after graduation and move toward your next adventure.
Did we tell you your entire family is incredibly proud of you?
Your whole cheering section is rallying behind you, celebrating what you've accomplished and what we all imagine you will do after graduation!
Life's richness lies in our many feelings, but the most important of those is love. There is self-love, the power of love in society, and the unconditional love of your family and friends.
