More Than Surviving—Thriving Through the Unknown

 

Graduation season is here—a time of tassels and tears, celebration and contemplation. For some, it’s the thrilling launch of a new adventure. For others, it’s a deep breath of relief, the exhale that comes from crossing the finish line of a long, hard race. And for many, perhaps too many, it’s a question mark—now what?

As I reflect during this season, my heart carries both pride and concern. I am a mother and grandmother in a family touched by autism. We’ve known the uphill battles and unexpected blessings that come with it. I've watched my daughter and grandson navigate a system that often felt rigid and unyielding, working tirelessly to ensure her child had what he needed to grow and learn, even when the world didn’t always understand him or her.

I remember my own apprehension—wondering how my child would manage in an education system not built for every kind of brilliance, wondering how they would find belonging when “fitting in” often came at the cost of authenticity. And now, as a grandmother, I feel those familiar concerns stirring again. The world still isn’t easy, and the future still feels uncertain.

But here’s what I’ve learned through the years: survival is not the goal. Thriving is.

I want more than just coping for my family—I want flourishing. I want joy that bubbles up in the quiet victories, strength that grows from hard-won resilience, and a future not defined by limitations but by love, creativity, and purpose.

Whether you’re a graduate stepping into the unknown, a parent holding your breath for what’s next, or a supporter of someone who experiences life a little differently—here are some gentle steps for moving forward with courage and faith:

Every step, every challenge, every hard-earned success matters. It took faith, grit, and grace to get here. Take time to celebrate, reflect, and thank God for bringing you this far.
“He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion…” (Philippians 1:6)

Not everyone walks the same road—and that’s okay. Some take longer, some need more support, and some blaze trails others can’t even see. Encourage and respect those who think, learn, or move through life differently. They reflect the creative beauty of our God.
“I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” (Psalm 139:14)

Grace matters. Give it generously. To the one struggling. To the one succeeding. And to yourself. Life is hard enough without judgment. Choose compassion over comparison.
“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32)

You may not know what comes next—and that’s okay. Ask God for strength for this day, not the entire journey. He gives grace for every moment.
“But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength…” (Isaiah 40:31)

We weren’t made to do life alone. Surround yourself—and others—with people who listen, love, and walk with you. We all thrive better together.
“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2)

Even when it feels dark or uncertain, hope is still there. It's not naïve—it’s anchored in the truth that God is with us and has good plans ahead.
“For I know the plans I have for you… to give you a future and a hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11)

 

To every graduate and every family whose journey has been filled with detours, therapies, setbacks, and small miracles—I see you. I know the depth of what this moment means. It’s not just a diploma; it’s a declaration that says, We made it this far. And we’re not stopping here.

To my daughter and my grandson—your courage humbles me. Your persistence inspires me. And my prayer for you both, and for all who walk a similar path, is that you don’t just survive this life—you thrive in it.

Because thriving doesn't mean life is easy. It means choosing to grow anyway. To rise anyway. To believe in joy anyway.

And that is worth celebrating.