Jake is a Graduate

Recently family and friends gathered to celebrate a momentous accomplishment of a fine young man, one I am very proud of.  That young man is my youngest child, my son Jake. My pride is for many more reasons than the Bachelor’s degree he will receive in a few days. He is a man who gives so much; I am in awe of all he does for so many. He has an incredibly big heart; he loves with his whole being, always and forever. He has always had big dreams and set goals that he worked hard to turn into reality. The college degree we celebrated is a milestone in Jake’s life. I hope this night of celebration made a memory he will hold with him always.

Our group shared good food, cheered thoroughbred horses as they raced, watched six children’s excited happy faces and enjoyed each other’s company. Jake received many words of congratulations, lots of special gifts (even a song from Lindsay) and I think love from all who attended.

We celebrated before the actual event of graduation. When that day came our group was smaller but eager to see Jake walk across the stage and hear his name. Colton, our grandson and Jake’s nephew,  was a member of our group.   Colton was expecting us to head to Stillwater for the day’s event and was disappointed we were traveling toward Norman; he knows Jake (Bubba to him) bleeds orange. We tried our best to explain the financial reasons Jake chose the crimson and cream university to finish his degree. Although all three of my children have taught me to love and respect Oklahoma State University, I must admit I think maybe I heard Grandpa Charley and Grandpa Bob hum a little Boomer Sooner from heaven.

The keynote speaker, a current member of the Oklahoma House of representatives, earned her Bachelor’s degree from the college. She offered some sage advice and inspirational stories but her closing words she borrowed from Walt Disney, “if you can dream it you can do it”. It was a perfect quote for Jake and so fitting for his life.

There will be many more milestones in Jake’s life, he will celebrate wonderful times and be surrounded by people who love him (Eric will always be his anchor and guiding star), and his life will be filled with successes. For as many years as God chooses for me to live on earth I will be one of Jake’s supportors and give him unconditional love, I will always be his proud mom.

Advertisement