A goal graduates are never urged to pursue but should be …

The real and strong emotions surrounding graduation from high school or college serve as kindling to the many and varied commencement speakers who usually feel obliged to stir graduates to pursue lofty heights.

Very lofty.

So, in May and June, there will be a myriad of speeches encouraging graduates with familiar mantras like this:

“Dream big!” or “Shoot for the stars!” These classic phrases emphasize aiming high and not letting limitations hold you back.

“The world needs your unique talents!” This reminds graduates of their potential and the impact they can make.

“Never give up on your dreams!” Persistence is key, and graduates are encouraged to keep striving even when faced with challenges.

“Don’t be afraid to take risks!” Graduates are urged to step outside their comfort zones and pursue their passions.

“Start planning your dream career today!” This emphasizes taking concrete steps to make dreams a reality.

“The world is your oyster, go explore it!” This encourages graduates to travel, learn new things, and broaden their horizons.

“Life is a journey, not a destination” This quote reminds graduates to pursue their dreams and enjoy the ride.

“The only limit is your imagination” This gives the idea that anything is achievable with the right mindset.

While, generally speaking, there’s nothing wrong with some of these encouragements, most graduates won’t aspire to goals overtly “lofty” in the eyes of the world. Most won’t become “captains of industry,” or launch the next great tech startup that becomes a global success, or be the first to step foot on Mars.

Some will.

And in both cases, that’s okay.

Most graduates will live lives that are far more impactful on their own families, or their small circle of friends, and perhaps their communities rather than rocking the world with their wonderfulness.

That’s okay!

In fact, that’s a little more in line with the encouragement the Apostle Paul provided to the Thessalonians, an encouragement that communicates there’s real value in seeking a simpler way of living:

“Make it your goal to live a quiet life, minding your own business and working with your hands, just as we instructed you before. Then people who are not believers will respect the way you live, and you will not need to depend on others,” 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12.

Such a life doesn’t sound as exciting or thrilling as being the next wealthy “social influencer,” but it makes for great friends, great neighbors, reliable marriage partners, and stable parents. It’s fodder for pursuing a godly life, loving and serving those around you while being a responsible person of integrity.

Now that’s a great contribution to the world, certainly a goal worth considering.

Scotty