Are Cardinals a Sign from Heaven? Spiritual Meaning of Seeing a Cardinal After Loss

Many people notice red cardinals after losing someone close.  These bright birds often appear when we are grieving or feeling alone. They seem to pop up unexpectedly, in moments when we need comfort most. For centuries, cultures and spiritual traditions have believed animals, including cardinals, can carry messages from the other side. But are cardinals truly signs from loved ones in heaven? Let’s explore what the symbols mean and how they might connect to your personal experience.

Cultural Significance of Cardinals

Across different cultures, cardinals are seen as powerful symbols. In Christianity, they represent the blood of Christ and spiritual vitality. Many believe seeing a cardinal is a sign of divine presence or guidance. Native American traditions see them as messengers between worlds, carrying messages from spirits. Some think they symbolize hope, renewal, and love that never dies.

Cardinals as Messengers from the Afterlife

Many believe animals serve as spiritual messengers. When a loved one passes, some say their spirit might communicate through signs like birds. Historically, stories tell of animals visiting people in dreams or visions to deliver important messages. Cardinals, with their striking red color, are often seen as especially meaningful symbols of connection beyond death.

John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” *

Why Cardinals Are Viewed as Special Signs

What makes cardinals stand out? Their vivid red feathers draw attention. They are often seen during emotional times—like grief or reflection. Many believe their vibrant color symbolizes the blood of life, and their appearance during tough moments suggests a message of love and remembrance from loved ones who have crossed over.

Personal Stories and Anecdotes

Countless individuals share stories about spotting a cardinal when they are thinking of someone who has died. Some say they saw a cardinal perched nearby right after hearing bad news. Others describe the bird showing up during prayer or quiet moments of reflection. Many feel these moments bring comfort, making them believe their loved ones are nearby.  The morning of my powerlifting meet, after turning onto a backroad, I spotted two cardinals, a male & female, along the side of the road.  I took that as a sign that my deceased parents were with me in spirit that day.

Recognizing Patterns and Signs

Do you keep seeing cardinals in different places? Or notice them during special dates, like anniversaries or birthdays? These patterns can be meaningful. Pay attention to your feelings—do you feel warmth, peace, or a sense of connection? Trusting your intuition helps interpret the signs.

Scientific Perspective and Skepticism

Scientists suggest that seeing a cardinal might be a trick of the mind. They argue that our memories and moods can cause us to notice birds more during emotional times. Sometimes, a bright red bird just happens to appear naturally near us. Experts say, whether you believe it’s spiritual or not, your feelings during these moments matter most.

Faith-based Perspectives

Many religions teach that signs and messages from heaven are possible. In Christianity, stories of angels or divine signs are common. Some believe God or angels send signs to comfort us. Other faiths also have beliefs about animals being messengers of spirits or ancestors.

Personal Belief and Open-mindedness

Whether you believe in signs from heaven depends on your own spiritual view. Some see these encounters as genuine messages, others see them as comforting coincidences. Either way, keeping an open heart allows you to find meaning in simple moments.

Balancing Skepticism and Faith

It’s okay to question what you see. Skepticism helps stay grounded. But faith can offer hope and peace. Respect other viewpoints and find what feels true for you. Trust your feelings and keep an open mind as you interpret signs.

Cultivating Awareness and Mindfulness

Take time to reflect, pray, or meditate. Quiet moments help you notice signs and feelings. Keep a journal to record sightings or special moments when a cardinal appears. Over time, patterns become clearer.

Creating Personal Rituals

Honor your loved one with small rituals. Light a candle when a cardinal shows up, or plant a flower or tree in their memory. These acts can strengthen your connection and give comfort during tough days.

Seeking Guidance from Spiritual or Religious Leaders

If you're unsure about signs, talk to clergy, spiritual advisors, or grief counselors. They can help you interpret your experiences and provide support. Many communities offer resources for those seeking understanding during grief.

Wrap-Up

Cardinals often appear during times of loss or sadness. Many believe these vibrant birds are signs from loved ones in heaven, messages of love, hope, and connection. Your personal interpretation, faith, and feelings are what truly matter. Whether you see a cardinal as a sign or just a beautiful bird, embracing these moments can help with healing. Remember, signs from loved ones are personal and can bring comfort on your journey through grief. Keep your heart open, and those special messages may find their way to you

Resources:

John 3:16 Quote: https://www.crosswalk.com/slideshows/things-the-bible-says-about-loved-ones-in-heaven.html

Ryan Robinson Blogging Tools

Cardinal Image: Photo by Patrice Bouchard on Unsplash

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Rest - You need it to restore your life and well-being

This is not the first time that I've written about rest.  The topic resurfaced because I'm currently reading the book "Sacred Rest." I am approaching the halfway point in the book and I'm in the chapter on creative rest. The timing is ironic as I started this blog as a creative outlet but I found myself this week needing a rest from creating.

My body is tired and sore from my powerlifting meet over the weekend.  I took a couple of days where I simply walked and I got a massage.  Coach Jonathan recommended I follow the Steadfast Strength program for my "off-season" before I begin training for my next meet in August.  In the first session, I think I found muscles I never worked before!  In Crossfit, we did squatting and I focused on depth because lack of depth is what caused me to receive red flags for two of my back squats in competition.  I felt like my quads were going to implode after class. I have strength class tonight and then a a rest day.

I returned to work on Tuesday after taking a day off on Monday to catch up on chores missed during the weekend and to get the previously mentioned massage.  I am mentally drained from work after only two days. I'm grateful for another day off even though I'm off because I had dental work.  

My need for physical and mental rest grew stronger with each passing day. After pushing myself through demanding workouts and dealing with constant mental chatter, I realized I needed more than just a break from activity. I needed creative rest, time away from the noise and chaos that often fill my mind. This period of quiet allowed my thoughts to settle and my energy to recharge in ways that mere physical rest couldn’t provide.

At the same time, I realized I also needed social rest. Being around people all day, especially in a loud and lively environment, drains my energy in ways I can’t always predict. That day was especially intense. I spent hours surrounded by hundreds of people, each cheering, clapping, shouting, or locking in on their lifts. The venue was crowded, with the air thick with anticipation and excitement. Music blared loudly from speakers, pounding through the background and adding to the noise. Announcers had to speak loudly, almost yelling, just to be heard over the thumping bass and cheering crowds. Their voices bounced across the space, fighting to cut through the din and reach everyone in the stands.

After all that, the silence of my home sounded like a gift. It was a stark contrast to the chaos I’d experienced. I craved the quiet so I could finally unwind, reflect, and simply breathe without external distractions. That peaceful silence brought me a deep sense of calm, allowing my mind to relax fully. My body, too, felt the weight lift from all the stimulation and exhaustion. On that day, I realized just how much I needed to step back from social interactions, sensory overload, and constant activity. It was a reminder that rest isn’t just about sleep or sitting still. It’s about giving myself permission to disengage and find mental space that restores my energy and clears my mind.

To learn more about the different types of rest, I encourage you to read the book "Sacred Rest" as it is an excellent read with in-depth information.  I scratched the surface in the blog about The Types of Rest You Need for Optimal Well-Being.

Related to rest is self-care.  I will link to blog posts I've written about self-care.

Prioritize Your Well-Being: The Unexpected Benefits of Self-Care

Self-Care vs. Slacking and How to Tell the Difference

The Power of Rest: Why It is Not a Waste of Time

Thank you for being patient as I take some time for rest this week!

Resources:

YouVersion Bible App - Scripture Image

Ryan Robinson Blogging Tools

Women's Spring Powerlifting Meet Recap

Last week, I competed in my first every women's powerlifting meet - Xpand Your Limits 2025 Squat, Bench, Deadlift  with other women from my gym Steadfast.  Words cannot express my gratitude for the support from the Steadfast family - coaches with their guidance before & during the meet, members who came to the event to cheer us on, and members who couldn't attend the meet but offered encouragement and well wishes. 

When I joined Steadfast almost four years ago after my son graduated high school; the same son who just graduated college a few weeks back, my goal was to do a full Murph because my friend Whitney did it.  She inspired me plus I love that the workout honors a fallen military hero, Michael Murphy.  I still plan to do Murph this year but it's going to be really scaled because powerlifting training took priority over Crossfit and Murph training during these past few months.  

“God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day.” (Psalm 46:5, NIV)*

Powerlifting was not something I ever thought of until encouraged by friends to give this meet a try. I found I really enjoy powerlifting training and it is something that I want to continue.  In fact, I have already signed up for the Xpand Your Limit Fall 2025 Push-Pull meet in October.

Getting back to the meeting I just completed on Saturday, I made 6 of 9 lifts; 1/3 for squat (depth is my nemesis), 2/3 for bench press, and 3/3 for deadlift.  I achieved a new personal record (PR) on my deadlift of 175 pounds. My husband has been on a weight loss journey since February and my newest deadlift PR is the equivalent of deadlifting him. 

I'm writing this on the Monday after the meet.  On Sunday, women from Steadfast, including several of the women who lifted on Saturday, gathered for a bridal shower for our friend Oksana.  While our attire was quite different from the meet, we held a meet recap during the bridal shower. I'm on vacation from my paid job so while I am doing chores that went undone during the weekend, I am getting a massage and likely reading.

Resources:

*Bible Verse taken from Empowering Women of Faith

Gratitude Quote Image - grateful.org

Deadlift Image courtesy of my friend Cindy

Mastering the Art of Nurturing Relationships: Strategies for Deepening Connections and Building Trust

This topic was inspired by the devotional I'm reading The Next Step by Sadie Robertson-Huff.  The past couple of days have been about the Song of Songs.  According to The Bible Project

"Song of Songs is a well-known but little-understood book of the Bible made up of eight chapters of ancient Israelite love poetry."

Maintaining strong relationships is essential for happiness and success in life. Whether with family, friends, or coworkers, nurturing bonds makes life richer. When we invest time and effort into our relationships, we can build trust, feel more connected, and experience more joy. In today’s world, creating genuine ties matters more than ever, especially as technology makes it easy to connect but hard to truly stay close.

The Foundations of Nurturing Relationships

Understanding Relationship Dynamics

Healthy connections are built on understanding how relationships work. Good relationships thrive on mutual trust, respect, and honesty. When both people feel safe to be themselves, trust naturally grows. People also need to feel valued and heard to strengthen their bond.

The Role of Empathy and Active Listening

Empathy makes a relationship stronger. It’s about truly putting yourself in another’s shoes. Active listening involves giving your full attention and clarifying what you hear. When you listen well, others feel appreciated. Brené Brown emphasizes that vulnerability and empathy are the heart of genuine connection.

Building Trust and Emotional Safety

Trust is the bedrock of any relationship. To build it, always be honest, keep promises, and show consistency. If trust gets broken, address it quickly and openly. For example, a coworker who admits a mistake and makes it right shows trustworthiness. Trust grows when both sides communicate openly and stay dependable.

Effective Communication for Relationship Growth

Open and Honest Dialogue

Talking openly clears misunderstandings and builds bonds. Share your feelings clearly without blaming others. If disagreements happen, discuss them calmly, not angrily. Honest talk turns small issues into understanding opportunities.

Non-Verbal Communication

Much of what we communicate isn’t in words. Body language and facial expressions often say more. Standing close, smiling, or maintaining eye contact can show you care. Tone of voice and gestures influence how your message is received, making non-verbal cues vital.

Conflict Resolution Skills

Disagreements are normal but must be handled with care. Approaching conflicts with empathy and a willingness to listen helps find solutions. Techniques like mediation, compromise, and using “I” statements—like “I feel...”—make conversations more respectful. These methods help turn conflicts into growth chances.

Maintaining Relationships Over Time

Consistency and Routine Engagement

Regular interactions keep relationships strong. Simple activities like weekly dates, daily check-ins, or shared hobbies remind people they matter. Small gestures, like remembering birthdays or checking in when someone is down, boost connection and trust.

Showing Appreciation and Recognition

Everyone loves to feel valued. Say “thank you,” offer compliments, or give thoughtful gifts. Recognizing efforts keeps relationships positive. Even small acts, like writing a kind note, can make a big difference over time.

Navigating Life Changes and Challenges

Life brings changes, and support matters most during tough times. Whether illness, job loss, or moving, being there helps strengthen bonds. Couples, friends, and colleagues who adapt and support each other grow closer. For example, a partner calming nerves during a stressful period shows true commitment.

Leveraging Technology to Nurture Relationships

Digital Communication Tools

Texting, video calls, and social media help us stay connected. But balance is key. Use messages for quick updates, and arrange face-to-face meetups when possible. A quick call can brighten someone’s day more than a message alone.

Virtual Gift-Giving and Thoughtful Gestures

Even from afar, showing care matters. Send a thoughtful e-card, order flowers, or plan a surprise delivery. Set reminders for birthdays or important dates to stay attentive to loved ones’ needs.

Avoiding Digital Pitfalls

Misunderstandings happen easily online. Be clear with your words and avoid jumping to conclusions. Always strive for genuine connection by being authentic, even behind the screen. Remember, emojis and tone indicators can help clarify your message.

The Role of Personal Growth and Self-Development

Cultivating Self-Awareness

Knowing yourself helps you connect better with others. Reflect on your feelings and triggers. Mindfulness exercises, journaling, or meditation can boost self-awareness. When you understand yourself, it’s easier to understand others.

Emotional Resilience and Self-Care

Handling stress is key to supporting loved ones. Take time for yourself and set healthy boundaries. When you're calm and balanced, you bring positive energy to your relationships and can handle challenges better.

Key Takeaways

• Trust and empathy are the foundation of strong relationships.
• Good communication, both spoken and unspoken, keeps bonds healthy.
• Frequent engagement and appreciation sustain long-term closeness.
• Thoughtful use of technology can support meaningful connections.
• Personal development influences how well you nurture your relationships.

Wrap-Up

Building and nurturing meaningful relationships is a continuous process. It begins with trust, empathy, and honest communication. Regular effort and appreciation help keep bonds strong over time. Digital tools can enhance connection but should never replace genuine interactions. Focus on personal growth, stay open to learning, and show others you care actively. Commit today to practicing these strategies — your relationships will thank you.

Resources:

Ryan Robinson Blogging Tools

YouVersion Bible App

The Next Step by Sadie Robertson-Huff

"Song of Songs" by The Bible Project

How to Handle an Office Bully: Strategies for Protecting Yourself and Creating a Safer Workplace

I have a coworker who could be classified as a bully.  He's someone who leaves people walking on eggshells.  The energy in our cube pod is so different when he's there versus when he's not there.  I probably don't have to tell you that there's more jovial interaction and collaboration when he's not present. I did talk with our department director about him during the pandemic when he called me up and screamed at me.  He's part of my work team so I cannot avoid him entirely. 

Office bullying is a problem many workers face, and it can make your daily job stressful and draining. Recognizing the signs early and knowing how to react can protect your mental health and help fix the problem. When bullying happens, it isn't just about feeling unhappy — it can hurt your confidence and even damage your career. More companies are seeing how important it is to deal with workplace harassment head-on. This article aims to give you the tools and confidence to stand up and create a healthier, more respectful workplace.

"The Bible doesn’t talk directly about bullying, but that doesn’t mean that we can’t use biblical principles to address the issue. The Bible commands us to love our neighbor as ourselves (Mark 12:31) and to treat others the way we would like to be treated (Luke 6:31)."*

Understanding Office Bullying

What is Office Bullying?

Office bullying is when someone repeatedly uses mean or hurtful actions to control or intimidate others. It can include yelling, gossip, or purposely excluding someone from work activities. Typically, it’s more than just an argument or disagreement. Bullying involves a pattern of behavior meant to cause emotional harm or make someone feel unsafe at work.

Types of Office Bullies

• The aggressive bully: This person is loud, intimidating, and often uses anger to get what they want. They might yell or threaten colleagues openly.  This describes my coworker.
• The passive-aggressive bully: Instead of direct threats, they use subtle tricks. Examples include spreading rumors or giving you the silent treatment.
• The manipulative bully: They win control over others through charm, guilt, or lies. They make others feel guilty or small to keep power.

Causes and Motivations Behind Office Bullying

Sometimes, people bully because they want more power or feel insecure. Poor company culture that ignores bad behavior can encourage bullies to act out. Personal issues, like stress or anger problems, also play a role. Understanding these reasons helps us see the bigger picture behind the bad behavior.

Recognizing the Signs and Impact of Office Bullying

Indicators of Workplace Bullying

Watch for signs like sudden changes in behavior, avoiding certain coworkers, or feeling anxious at work. You might notice gossip, rumors spreading, or your boss giving unfair criticism. If many employees report similar issues anonymously, that could be a sign of a bigger problem.

Effects on Victims and the Workplace

If you are bullied, you might feel stressed, exhausted, or depressed. Your work can suffer because you’re distracted or afraid. This lowers job satisfaction and might make you think about quitting. For the company, bullying leads to higher turnover, more sick days, and a bad reputation.

Strategies for Addressing and Combating Office Bullying

Document and Gather Evidence

Start by keeping a record of each incident. Write down dates, times, what was said or done, and who was present. Save emails or messages that show threatening or inappropriate behavior. Having proof can be crucial if you decide to report the problem later.

Establish Boundaries and Assertive Communication

Be clear and calm when confronting a bully. Use “I” statements like, “I feel uncomfortable when you raise your voice.” Stand your ground without yelling or losing your temper. If the bullying continues, escalate by speaking to a manager or HR.

Seek Support From Allies and HR

Find coworkers you trust and talk to them about the issue. They might be experiencing the same thing or can support you. Approach the HR department with your documented evidence. Know your rights and review your company’s policies on harassment and bullying. While I talked with our department director, I never did go to HR because I felt it could make matters worse.  Since the phone calls were not recorded I didn't feel I had adequate evidence.

Implement Organizational Change

Encourage your workplace to create strict anti-bullying policies. These should protect employee rights and offer channels to report issues confidentially. Advocate for training programs that teach respect, teamwork, and how to handle conflict.

When to Consider External Assistance

If bullying persists despite your efforts, consider outside help. Talk to a mental health professional or legal expert. In extreme cases, it might be necessary to report the abuse to authorities or look into whistleblower programs.

Preventative Measures and Creating a Positive Workplace Culture

Developing Clear Policies and Reporting Procedures

Your company should have clear policies that define bullying and lay out reporting steps. Employees need to know they will be protected from retaliation. Confidentiality must be a priority.

Training Managers and Employees

Workshops that focus on respectful communication and conflict resolution can be effective. Teach managers how to recognize and stop bullying early. Building awareness helps everyone understand their role in creating a safe environment.

Promoting Open Communication and Psychological Safety

Encourage employees to speak up without fear. Leaders must set the tone by modeling respectful behavior. When employees feel safe sharing concerns, problems are less likely to grow into bigger issues.

Wrap-Up

Office bullying damages both individuals and organizations. Knowing the signs helps you catch problems early, and taking action can stop it from worsening. Simple steps like documenting incidents, setting firm boundaries, and seeking support make a big difference. Companies must also create policies and training to prevent bullying in the first place. Everyone has a part to play in building respectful workplaces where people feel safe and valued. Stand up for yourself, support your colleagues, and push for change — because a healthier work environment benefits us all.

Resources:

What Does the Bible Teach Us About Bullying? - *source of drop quote

Ryan Robinson Blogging Tools

Does the Calmi Ring Live Up to Its Hype

While scrolling Instagram, I kept seeing ads saying that the Calmi Ring would help you lose 30 pounds.  As someone who could benefit from some weight loss but is also preparing for a powerlifting meet, I eventually decided to order a Calmi Ring.  I chose Onyx; something very different than most rings that I own.  I was also able to get the $80 ring on sale for $49.90.

Being used to Amazon Prime one to two day delivery, it felt like delivery of my ring took forever.  I finally received my Calmi ring a few days ago and began wearing it. 

I decided to lookup success stories after receiving my Calmi Ring.  Spoiler alert - I should have done this before buying the ring and saved myself $50.  The ring looks like nice although I'm not sure how long that will last after reading a series of bad reviews from the Phoenix Area Better Business Bureau.  You linked to the reviews and encourage you to read the accounts first hand.

I also found an interesting article that I'll link titled Is The Calmi Ring A Scam?  Within the article, the author details the list of things the Calmi Ring will solve aside from weight loss such as anxiety and stress reduction.

The first full day I wore the Calmi Ring was a Saturday.  I took a walk in the morning, did chores throughout the day, and found some relaxation time for reading, coloring, and watching YouTube. However, my second day of wearing the Calmi Ring, I was very anxious and stressed.  While meeting with a friend to take over an AA service position, I found I was locked out of my password manager app. My husband was on a scout outing and is generally home around noon from this type of event.  At noon, he and our son hadn't even left camp.  An eternity later (okay, a few hours), he finally got home and blamed the lockout on my Android phone most likely having an update. The whole day was chaotic and stressful and the house was so noisy.  I took two walks and during one of them, I took time just to sit by a pond in the quiet to try and calm my mind.

The day I'm writing this is my third day of wearing the Calmi Ring and it's been a much better day.  I went to bed early and was finally able to calm down.  I had a powerlifting session with Coach Jonathan at my happy place called the gym.  It's a much better day.

Aside from spending an unnecessary $50, I was reminded not to expect an earthy thing like a ring to do the job of my Higher Power who I call God.  God is the one who is control - not me and certainly not a piece of metal with little magnets.  The scripture image of John 14:27 says it all "The Peace I Give is a Gift the World Cannot Give."  A ring cannot replace a relationship with God, a loving Father, who will do what is best for you.

Resources:

YouVersion Bible App

Ryan Robinson Blogging Tools

Calmi Ring 

Phoenix Area Better Business Bureau - Calmi Ring Reviews

Is The Calmi Ring A Scam?

From Cap and Gown to New Horizons: Celebrating Graduation and What Comes Next

Graduating from college isn’t just about holding a diploma in your hand—it’s about holding a piece of your story. This milestone is the proof of late-night study sessions, countless cups of coffee, friendships forged in the trenches of group projects, and the persistence that carried you through. It’s a chapter of growth, discovery, and preparation for the world beyond the classroom.

Graduation shapes life in more ways than one—emotionally, socially, financially. It’s the moment you realize the world is wide open, and you’re standing at the starting line with new possibilities ahead. Whether you’re in the middle of celebrating or staring into the exciting unknown of “what’s next,” this season is about much more than the ceremony—it’s about embracing the journey.

"Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity." – 1 Timothy 4:12

The Academic Journey: A Story of Persistence

The road to graduation is rarely straight. Most students start with general courses, climb into the complexity of their majors, and polish their skills through internships, projects, and exams. Each semester is a small victory, another building block in your story.

By the time you cross the finish line, your degree represents more than credits—it symbolizes resilience. For our family, watching our son graduate Magna Cum Laude was a reminder that persistence, grit, and faith do pay off.

The Hidden Checklist: Graduation Requirements

The cap and gown moment doesn’t just happen—you earn it. Colleges have their own rules to ensure students are truly ready. That usually means hitting the right credit count, passing required courses, maintaining your GPA, and yes—filling out paperwork (the least glamorous part of graduation).

The best advice? Check those boxes early. Nobody wants to find out at the last minute that one missing form stands between you and your big day.

Commencement: A Ceremony of Tradition

Graduation day is as much about tradition as it is about achievement. From the regalia to the procession, every detail carries history. At Bowling Green, Orel Hershiser stood at the podium as commencement speaker, delivering a short but heartfelt message that echoed through the arena.

It’s a reminder that you’re not just closing a chapter—you’re joining a legacy.

Preparing for the Big Day

Academic Final Touches

Make sure your transcripts, projects, and requirements are all buttoned up. The last thing you want is to discover a technical hiccup holding back your degree.

Practical Planning

Think logistics: tickets, seating, regalia, and family invitations. At our son’s ceremony, tickets weren’t paper anymore—they lived in digital wallets. Quite the leap from my own college graduation 30+ years ago, when paper tickets were the prized possession!

Personal Mindset

Amid the buzz of the big day, pause. Take a breath. Graduation is the celebration of who you’ve become—not just what you’ve achieved. Bowling Green even created a thoughtful commencement website to keep families informed and connected, helping us focus more on the moment and less on the details.

Celebrating the Moment

Our son’s graduation was held in the evening. By the time the last cheer echoed and the caps were tossed, we were too exhausted for pictures afterward—but thankfully, we captured plenty during the ceremony itself.

The next morning was simpler but sweeter: breakfast together, laughter over coffee, and quiet joy before the whirlwind of moving trucks and the next chapter began. Sometimes, the best celebrations are the ordinary moments shared with the people you love most.

Remembering the Village

No one walks across that stage alone. Behind every graduate are mentors, professors, friends, and family who offered encouragement along the way. A thank-you note, a small gesture, or even just spoken gratitude goes a long way in honoring the support system that helped carry you forward.

After the Cap and Gown: Stepping Into the Future

The Job Hunt

Graduation is both an ending and a beginning. Resumes, interviews, and applications become the new homework. Networking—through alumni, career fairs, or even LinkedIn—opens doors. For our son, this summer means working at Camp Falling Rock before pursuing a career in supply chain management and logistics.

Challenges Along the Way

The transition isn’t always smooth. Rejection letters, delays, or unexpected detours can sting. But every setback is also a lesson in resilience. The skills you honed in college—adaptability, persistence, creativity—are the same ones that will carry you forward.

Beyond the Traditional Path

Some graduates dive into startups, online learning, or alternative certifications. Others chase dreams that don’t fit neatly into a box. The beauty of graduation is that it doesn’t lock you in—it unlocks countless doors.

The Final Word

Graduation is more than a ceremony—it’s a launching pad. It’s the moment you recognize that the real journey isn’t the degree itself, but what you do with it.

So, celebrate fully. Be proud. Step boldly into what’s next.

And to our son—congratulations, Jon III, on your college graduation! Your story is just beginning, and we can’t wait to see the chapters yet to come.

Resources:

Ryan Robinson Blogging Tools

1 Timothy 4:12

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