May 16, 2013 at 2:53 p.m.

To the graduates


By J. Patrick Reilly-preilly@thedodgevillechronicle.com

Graduation.
I received a couple announcements in the mail this week from graduates I know. I am happy for them and proud of their accomplishments. I have known them forever, it seems, and while they have had a few glitches along the way for the most part they have been high achievers and more importantly, good kids.
I wish them and all the graduates well. I caution them there will be disappointments along the way but that is life. No doubt there will be nothing thrown in their way that they can't handle.
The friends they made in high school will go their own way. Some will take the time to remain friends. Some you will only see at class reunions. Just be glad you were friends at least once.
Speaking of high school reunions I will be attending my 50th this September. While I look forward to it as a chance to reconnect with classmates who have made their lives in different parts of the country, I will also be a little sad as some good friends never made it to this point.
The ones we lost were successful people and could stand up against everything except cancer. I miss them and will remember them that night.
So, to the present graduates....cherish your experiences. Cherish your friends. Cherish the time you have.
And may God be with you throughout your life.
DODGEVILLE

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