It is graduation time and families are celebrating the long awaited successes of their children. We've had a couple of graduations in my family this year. One person received their B.S., and the other received their master's degree. Listening to them discuss future opportunities caused me to think about priorities and what's really important in life.

One thought that came to mind is that we never graduate from life. It is an ongoing process where we continue to learn and adapt. One of the most important things a graduate should know as they start their careers is that money will not buy happiness under any circumstances. Having a career where integrity can be kept intact will bring much more satisfaction that money ever could.

Another lesson for the future is to think about what people are going to say about you at your funeral. Do you want to have a life remembered for compassion, generosity, and the way you loved and valued people? If so, you need to live a life that will create the kind of memories you want to leave behind for those who are important to you.

Mother Theresa said she sought joy, and in that seeking for joy she found her work. She further stated that the work was heavy and burdensome at times, but doing that work is what brought her more joy than she ever thought possible. What kind of joy are you seeking and what choices are you going to make to get there?