Graduation time: Cheers to the supportive parents

High school and college graduation season is upon us once again. It’s a time filled with celebration, reflection and a fair amount of pageantry.

It doesn’t stop there. Eighth-grade graduations have been drawing proud families into school gyms, and even kindergarteners are donning caps and gowns for their own ceremonies.

Watching a 5-year-old cross a stage in miniature regalia is awfully cute. It’s a photo opportunity no parent or grandparent wants to miss.

But it does make you wonder: When a child has already “graduated” once or twice before they hit double digits, does walking across the stage at 18 lose just a little of its punch?

Maybe. Maybe not.

Because while the ceremonies may start to blur together, the meaning behind them doesn’t. Each one marks a step forward in growth, change and the steady march toward independence.

Several years ago, I received an email that has stuck with me ever since. It was from a father asking about opportunities for his son, Jared, who was preparing to graduate from high school.

Jared had been accepted to a university and planned to study communication and journalism. His dad described a young man passionate about public speaking, writing and storytelling, his skills sharpened through speech competitions, announcing and yearbook work.

He also noted Jared was a “true farm kid,” with a love for agriculture and a desire to return to rural Missouri and give back to the communities that shaped him.

Reading that message, I couldn’t help but think of a goose near the pond behind my house. If you get too close to her nest — and now goslings — she’ll come running with wings flapping, squawking loudly, doing everything she can to protect what matters most.

Or, the cow that bawls when her calf disappears over the hill with the rest of the herd, just out of sight.

That’s what I saw in that email. Not interference. Just a parent who cared deeply.

I wrote back with a few suggestions and offered to meet with Jared. Helping young people find their way is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.

Their enthusiasm is contagious, and their willingness to learn is something we could all stand to remember.

A few days later, I received another note from Jared’s dad. He thanked me, then apologized. Twice. He worried he had crossed a line by reaching out on his son’s behalf.

I couldn’t disagree more.

There are plenty of young people out there who don’t have someone in their corner, encouraging them to chase their dreams.

So, when I see a parent willing to step up, to ask questions, to offer support, I think that’s something worth celebrating.

Graduation season isn’t just about diplomas and tassels. It’s about what comes next and the people who help get you there.

So, to the parents who show up, speak up and stand beside their kids as they take those next steps, never be sorry for caring.