This last weekend was my daughter’s high school graduation. It was great to see her hard work pay off and it was fun to celebrate all her accomplishments. The best part was being able to be on stage with her when she got her diploma. Since I was voted by her class to give the commencement speech, I had a front row seat.
I struggled with what I was going to say. To be relatable to the graduates, I knew I had to share something personal. I decided to share a very painful part of my life. I’m a private person, so I hate talking about myself.
I was nervous that morning and beginning to second-guess myself. I wondered if I should water it down a little bit. I just heard that morning that they were expecting more than 2000 people at graduation. I said a quick prayer and asked God for help.
Our Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) leader spoke with the kids before the ceremony. His experience of how God worked in his life really helped me. He talked about how God had saved his marriage. He also shared about his son’s addiction and how God gave him the grace to deal with it. After hearing his story, the fear I felt went away.
As we walked out to the stage on our football field, I didn’t even notice that the stands were packed. I shared with him afterwards how his witness gave me the courage I needed to be able to give my speech.
My wife, Erica, is a graduation coach and was in charge of directing the graduation ceremony. I didn’t even share my speech with her. She was a little surprised and emotional. In the video below, Erica is sitting in front, just to the right of the podium. All I have to say, is I give all the glory to God. He has given me a real experience of his love and mercy. How could I not share that?