Loran Chapman was the guest speaker at the Sturgis Composite High School graduation exercises on May 27.
“For the past five years I have attended each graduation and have always enjoyed being part of them,” Chapman said. “Seeing the graduates all dressed up has always left me with a bittersweet feeling. On one hand, I am so proud of them and on the other hand, I feel slightly sad that they will soon be finished with high school and I may never cross paths with them again.
“I like to share some advice with the class. First of all find a job or career that will support the type of lifestyle you want to live but at the same time make sure you enjoy it enough to want to continue that job for years.
“Secondly, do not make your job your entire life. Do something outside work that makes you happy and does not cause you stress.
“Thirdly, start saving for you retirement as soon as you can. You are going to want options for yourself when you are older. What you choose to do when you’re young, affects this.
“Fourthly, never live beyond your means. Be proud of what you can afford. Comparing yourself to others is pointless and a waste of energy. How hard you work for your ‘things’ will only make your respect and appreciate them more. Living in debt leads to nothing but stress and disappointment.
“Life goes by quickly. Don’t let life slip past without making your mark. Appreciate your family and close friends. Never take them for granted. Do not underestimate hard work.
I will not tell you that whatever you set your mind to, you can do, because honestly I do not believe that. Hard work and determination can get you a comfortable life, with a job you enjoy, a house you appreciate and family and friends who love you.
“Choose the life you want to live and make that life happen because you only have one chance. The road may not always be smooth and sometimes it might even be down-right awful, but if you have chosen to surround yourself with reliable people, you will make it through the rough times a better, more resilient person.”
