By Doug Clovechok

I am especially honoured to take this opportunity to congratulate the high school graduates of 2018. You have achieved an important milestone, worthy of celebration!

Please remember to take a moment to thank your parents and those who had a hand in raising you. Their love, patience, and support have fueled your engine so that you could achieve the success that fills your hearts today. It is this foundation that gives you the inspiration to build the fulfilling life that you are meant to live.

May I also ask that you think back to your teachers from Kindergarten to Grade 12; they all worked hard to support you in becoming the best version of yourself as you walk across the stage to graduate. As you move forward in your life, be mindful of life’s teachers that present themselves to you in this same manner, and never forget that in this same sentiment, you might be that teacher for somebody else.

Graduation day is one of the most memorable days in a young person’s life. It punctuates both an ending and a very exciting beginning. Ahead of you is boundless promise and opportunity found within our province and our nation.

These are some of the most exciting times in history with unprecedented opportunities. You are pioneers in a new era. Believe in something larger than yourself; embrace some of the big ideas of our time. Engage in what the future has to offer to you. Be inquisitive. Ask questions. Never let others define you, and be determined in your direction.

Hope finds its expression in hard work. Know that all of your dreams can come true as long as you have the courage to pursue them. Life will have its scary moments, but try to remember that the definition of courage is not the absence of fear. Being courageous means that you are afraid, but you are doing it anyway.

Let me conclude with a couple of quotes that might serve you well as you move forward:
“Wherever you go, go with all your heart. Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter, and those who matter don’t mind.” (Dr. Seuss) And…

“Don’t ever get off your parents’ wireless plan. Ride that train as long as possible because you don’t know how expensive data is.” (Jimmy Fallon)

Congratulations, and God bless each of you.

– Doug Clovechok is Columbia River-Revelstoke MLA

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