36 years ago I met Doug Drenik in our freshman year of high school. Our first meeting was on the hardwood during a pick up basketball game. Today he walks with me on the hardwood of life. I was blessed to have Doug join me for my treatment this morning. Doug is a survivor of this disease and an alumni of Dana Farber. I know I will be a graduate someday. It gave me confidence having him at my side.
High School is an amazing transitional time. We grow up so quickly during those 4 years that the bonds created are as strong as steel. Doug is one of the many classmates that have supported me on the journey I am now on. I am so grateful for the support. Thank you class of 1987.
That said, one thing I have learned post high school and college is while we might graduate we must KEEP learning. This is a perfect time to think about this given it is graduation season.
Graduates you should be proud of what you have accomplished. That said, things will evolve and with that you will need to evolve if you want to remain relevant. Hopefully what you learned in college is how to learn. If so this will be a gift you will use the rest of your life.
I will use a simple analogy with you. Take technology for example. The year I met Doug was 1983. The internet was invented that same year. We had no mobile phones, Facebook, instagram, snapchat, ITUNES etc…..
Today, in my career I could not imagine using 1983 technology. Each evolution was a bit more efficient than the next. Graduates, your most successful peers will be the ones that embrace change and adapt. Adaptability is crucial to your success.
One thing that will not change is the bonds you built. I am witness to this today. I have been amazed by the support that I experience each day for high school, college and even grade school friends. While I may not see these friends often I am grateful to you all. Thank you for your love and support. I am reminded to continue to nurture and value my relationships.
Going to the mountaintop is a lot more fun with friends.
Congratulation to all of the 2019 graduates. I look forward to following your celebrations and future successes. May your dreams become real.
The world is your oyster!
I am proud and honored to be your friend Matt. I’m so grateful that we’ve stayed connected all these years. And if there is a silver lining to you going through this experience, it’s that I get to see you more often. Love you brother!
Awesome post Matt! God places people in our lives who become our life long friends – there for us no matter what!