This is why you must attend an 8th-grade graduation!

Here we are in June. It is the end of the school year and for many there will be a graduation to celebrate. The celebration of a new level of a journey. Excitement, apprehension and relief is flooding in to all those new graduates.


Last year I had the honour of attending my great-nephew's 8th grade graduation. 


The year his elementary school opened it’s brand new doors I walked through them as a grade 6 student myself. It made me smile as I looked around and had special memories flooding in. 


As the ceremony unfolded I watched and listened as the students came up to receive their awards. The teachers shared the students special qualities as they gave out the awards.


My training in Soul Genesis™ gave me insights on some of the recipients and their special qualities that are part of their soul blueprint.


One student was applauded for their curiosity to ask the question, “why, what, how come”. The teacher remarked on how insightful this was as a 6th grader. This ability to ask questions to find solutions was out of the norm, for many of this age. Meanwhile, I am doing an imaginary fist pump. I am thinking how that child is embracing their eternal pattern of curiosity to the fullest. 


Another student was applauded for having tremendous organization skills. It was mentioned this skill is not always clear in middle school. That made my heart sing a kindred spirit song, as organization is my eternal pattern. I was thinking this child is being celebrated for their strengths and will now remember it as a gift.


There was a shy young girl who stood on the stage, waiting quietly with a smile. The comment was 'although shy she could stand strong’ and was helpful to others. I often remark to those who have this in their blueprint - “quiet does not mean lack of strength. It means you go about taking action in a softer manner that is very effective.” 


There was the stubborn learner.  One who was resistant to new ideas but became the most enthusiastic learner in the grade. Communication was another award to which a middle school student excelled. Again the comment was this was beyond the normal behaviour of this age. It was interesting to see what is viewed as resistant or out of the norm, was in fact a wonderful coping strategy. This strategy is part of their blueprint and will serve these children throughout their lives.


My nephew earned an athletic award. The teacher remarked “he knew how to have fun and let go of the competition” and yet managed to excel at the sport. I observed how his humour and ability relaxes those around him.


The valedictorian speech was given by my great nephew and another student. They spoke about what they had learned and that in 30 years from now it won’t matter the clothes they wore. They talked about what is important, is the friends they surround themselves with. 


The principal then spoke directly to the grade 8 students. He talked about how grade 9 will require new levels of learning and commitment. And they may feel it is hard to be confident. He encouraged them to take the positive opportunities when they come their way.


I marvelled at these young 8th grade graduates. Stepping up to take their position as part of the global transition team. Ready to be leaders, players, influencers, and game changers. I believe the planet is in good hands! 


I sat there and thought, "Wow, here I am 50+ years later and some things stay the same. Could that principal be speaking to me, Barbara the grownup?"


As adults are we not fearful when we are asked to step into the unknown like those 8th graders?


Our higher grade may be a new position in our career, taking more responsibility in our life.


Our decisions, behaviour and choices are influenced by family, friends and community. We will make different choices or hold to set patterns through these experiences. Either way knowledge is gained. 


This grade 8 graduation was a lovely trip down memory lane. There were lots of insights about my growth over the many decades. How at that age I would never have imagined all the learnings I have experienced. I am so grateful that I have learned about my soul design. This understanding explains what I choose to learn, and what I choose to do with that knowledge. All to express myself in an authentic manner.


So my friend, have you had the opportunity to sit in an auditorium this graduation season? Whether you have or haven’t can you imagine your 8th grader self?


Are you still curious or have you become less so over the years?


Are you a resistant learner or have you become the person who will  jump in and say “let’s do this?”


Are you worried about what others think?


Have you surrounded yourself with people who are lifting you up and celebrating your wins? 

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Have you taken those positive opportunities that have been presented? If not, why not?

Are you familiar with your built in coping strategies for life? 

​Or, are you curious and would like to learn more?

Let’s travel down the 8th grade memory lane together.
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If you would like to explore the wonderful unique grown up 8th grader who has passion, plans and purpose - I would love to chat with you about blueprints, patterns, coping strategies and all the wonderful facets that make you, YOU! Check your schedule and then hop on over to my digital calendar to schedule a discovery call. 

I look forward to speaking with you soon and travelling down memory lane!


Until next time,
Barbara