Jasmine Graduates

Dear Jasmine,

Congratulations upon your impending graduation. 12 long years to get to this point. They call it education, but it really is a bootcamp. Supposedly to prepare you for life. Although you spend all this time in school, I am not sure that what is taught pertains to the average persons life. Sure you learn isosceles triangles, diagramming sentences, and Valley Forge – but do they teach you how to fix a leaky faucet, balance a checkbook, or what to do if your car breaks down at 2 in the morning? Tasks that you might actually have to do. These things are left for you to figure out on your own, so now the real education begins.

Well for now you are full of energy and vigor, you have not been ground down yet by the gear wheels of life. There is time enough for that. But enjoy your new freedom. 12 years was a long time to do – with no chance of parole! Have fun but not too much fun. Moderation in all things – drink, food, and even love.

Yes, now it is time for advice - although much of this will go unheeded. Money is not everything. But being careful with money will make life much easier. Live below your means and save back a rainy day fund. Your grandfather, my uncle Rusty, gave me good advice that I have taken – it would do you well to listen to what he has to say.

Neither a borrower nor a lender be – words from Shakespeare. But words that still carry meaning today. Don't rush out and get credit cards or a loan for a new car. It can be hard to dig your way out of debt. And be cautious with student loans if you go that route. Vanessa is still paying off loans and she is 36.

More important than advice from an old man, you will find a check. Which I am sure is more important that all the above. Have fun this summer, the summer after I graduated was one of the most fun summers of my life. Old enough to have the freedoms of an adult with none of the responsibilities – like making rent, paying bills, etc. So if you ignore all the above please follow this one piece of advice – have fun this summer!