Grads may need some luck

Our congratulations to the graduates from all of the area schools who capped off 12 years of work by earning their diplomas last week.

The annual rite of spring means they are now officially adults, ready to leave the nest, to begin making their life decisions on their own, and building both their future and the future of our nation.

But they enter a world with greater uncertainty than many of the graduating classes before them. With the economy in a shambles, jobs are scarce.

Some may choose to ride out the economic storm and begin their new lives with a tour in the military. Recruiters are doing a booming business right now. It's a good choice, for a large number of obvious reasons, but it is not a lifestyle that is for everyone.

Some may choose to continue their education, in the hope that by the time they have gotten some advanced training the economy and the job market will have improved. Once again, it's a good choice. More education/training is always a good thing and helps improve their chances for success in the long run.

But some may have no interest in more school, or can't afford it right now, and will begin seeking work right away. Getting that first career job may be the hardest thing they ever do right now. But hard work, and looking for a job is usually hard work, tends to pay off.

Whatever their career choice, these graduates have proven they can put their noses to the grindstone and complete a job (graduating).

We wish them the best of luck as they go forward to make the future for all of us.

-- Kelly Everitt