By Tommy Whitaker Jr.
In 1999, my five-year-old nephew sat in the bleachers with my family members and attended my high-school graduation at a local college stadium. Last night, I attended my now 17-year-old nephew’s graduation at the same location.
I’m 31 now, and watching his graduation experience thirteen years later was surreal. As I’m sitting in the bleachers, I couldn’t help but think back to thirteen years ago when it was me walking the stage to receive my diploma.
I was excited for my nephew, but at the same time I was disappointed. I was disappointed in myself and my lack of success, both professionally and personally. I never knew exactly what I wanted to do when I graduated high school, but I knew I’d eventually figure it out and become successful in whatever it was that I chose to do. I figured I’d have a great job making lots of money, a big house, a nice car, a wife and one or two kids.
The only thing that came to fruition was me owning a car. I have friends whom I grew up with that are in great careers, married with kids, and are also proud homeowners. All of these thoughts of disappointment are going through my head as the PA announcer is saying each kids name.
