Finding Old Advice For New Graduates

When recently asked for some advice for a new graduate, my thoughts flashed back almost 200 years.

In his diary, William Clark described many of the intense struggles that confronted the famous Lewis and Clark expedition to the Pacific Ocean. But hidden within his matter-of-fact notation for June 15, 1805, nuggets of timeless insight for any graduate embarking on a new phase of life. They're not bad for seasoned travelers, either.

With slight adaptations, here are Clark's observations--and my advice.

THE MEN ARE IN THE WATER FROM MORNING UNTIL NIGHT, HAULING THE CORD AND BOATS, WALKING ON SHARP ROCKS AND ROUND SLIPPERY STONES WHICH ALTERNATELY CUT THEIR FEET AND THROW THEM DOWN.

The boats had to be towed upstream, and the men preferred to pull them from the safety of the riverbank. But when pulling from the water, hidden dangers--slippery stones and sharp rocks--caused numerous injuries. If you leave the higher ground of moral uprightness and integrity, you also will quickly discover the "slippery stones and sharp rocks" that infest second-best paths. They will do you harm.

THE CURRENT IS EXCESSIVELY RAPID AND DIFFICULT TO ASCEND.

Don't be surprised when you find yourself plodding upstream. It will happen, especially when you determine to do right. And the flow of contrary circumstances may often cause you to lose ground. But such setbacks are temporary--if you don't choose to "go with the flow" down the path of least resistance.

THERE ARE GREAT NUMBERS OF DANGEROUS PLACES, AND THE FATIGUE WHICH WE HAVE TO ENCOUNTER IS INCREDIBLE.

You will often be tired--unbelievably tired--in pursuing a career, rearing a family, battling sickness. Don't be discouraged. Persevere. A worthy journey will be exhausting.

ADDED TO THOSE DIFFICULTIES, THE RATTLESNAKES ARE INNUMERABLE AND REQUIRE GREAT CAUTION TO PREVENT BEING BITTEN.

The slippery stones and sharp rocks caused injury, but not death. But there was another danger, one that threatened life itself: rattlesnakes. Since the men were alert for the telltale warning rattles, however, none were ever bitten.

Human "rattlesnakes" also warn before they strike. Be alert for sounds like these: "You can make plenty of money without hard work." "You can have harmless fun with drugs." "Pleasure is more important than lifelong commitment to your mate." "Come on. Everybody does it." Ignore these warnings, and both potential and heritage will die.

NOTWITHSTANDING THE DIFFICULTY, THEY GO WITH GREAT CHEERFULNESS.

In spite of their countless adversities, the men maintained cheerful attitudes. Why? They had a worthy goal and stayed under the authority of their leaders. They encouraged each other and worked together for mutual achievement. Thus they prospered and succeeded. And so will you--if you cheerfully do the same. May God bless you!

Copyright 2001 James McAlister

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