A Challenge to Graduates

Story ID:	3864
Written by:	JANET KESSLER POLUDNIAK
Organization:	JUST ME
Story type:	Poem
Location:	Ithaca NY USA
Year:	2008
Person:	Graduates--Congratulations!

Cornell University is located in Ithaca, NY. The pictures are all scenes on Cornell's campus:

1) The Clock Tower

2) The Clock Tower through West Campus' Gothic Arch

3) Looking from West Campus toward Anna Bell Taylor Hall--center for religious affairs.

4) West Campus--where the Gothic Arches are that frame the Clock Tower in the second photo.



A Challenge to Graduates
©2004, Janet K. Poludniak
Revised 2008, Janet K. Poludniak


While graduates sporting caps and gowns may suggest an end,
as we look toward the future, it's more than this, my friend.
Many of you have desires to pursue great aspirations;
I wish you success and happiness well past this celebration.


I would challenge every graduate to set your standards high.
If you would realize your dream, your best you must apply.
Your life goals will determine if you succeed or face disaster.
Let God guide your steps, aright, in every task you'd master.


Determine to live honorably and refuse to compromise.
Remember, greatness in this life is not controlled by size.
While those who misuse others are destined to lose ground,
and those who freely give and help are gifts not often found.


To have a friend, be a friend–the kind of friend worth keeping–
‘cause any other kind of friend is only cause for weeping.
And if you'd have a legacy when your life is done on earth,
encourage good in others which will cultivate their worth.


Formal schooling may be done, but there's still a lot to learn;
you'll gain knowledge at every step, in every place you turn.
Don't climb the rungs of life too fast, leaving friends behind.
Later, in a difficult place, you may need them; be kind!


Learn from those who've climbed ahead, those who've stood the test;
but don't dismiss the ones who've failed; their wisdom may be best.
Nothing will prepare you for the tests you're bound to face,
so put your trust in God, above; lean hard upon His grace.


When commencement is only a memory, still lessons lay ahead.
Thank God for every day He gives when you climb out of bed;
and when, at night, you close your eyes to rest from toil of day,
remember, it was God who led, and don't neglect to pray.


Many crave prosperity! It becomes their greatest goal;
but there are more important things, like peace within your soul.
God honors those who honor Him and live with integrity;
He's not impressed by wealth or fame acquired by infamy.