This past weekend we celebrated a milestone in our family - our son's high school graduation.  The weeks leading up to this special occasion were very busy, as we prepared for it, as well as kept up with the usual hectic schedule that occurs this time of year.  But the day arrived, and whatever wasn't done was. well, left undone!  The important things happened though!  Our son looked so handsome in his suit and tie, we managed to take a lot of pictures, despite the threat of rain, and he walked across the stage to receive his diploma, as well as several awards.  The work had been done - now he was just reaping the rewards.  The ceremony itself was just a formality - but a very important one!  It represented all that he had accomplished and worked hard for, and was a tangible way to see all the progress he had made over the years.  We were (and are!) so very proud of the godly young man he has become, and are eager to see what great things God has in store for his life.  Special occasions are like highway signposts along the road of life - they are visible markers of where we've been and where we are heading. A verse in Jeremiah 31:21a (NIV) says "Set up road signs; put up guideposts. Take note of the highway, the road that you take."  It's important to make "memory signs" that highlight where we have come from, and point the way forward to where we want to be.  Personally, special occasions are wonderful opportunities to celebrate the people who help shape us, help make us who we are, and who have shared in our everyday living.  They are powerful reminders of what is really important in our lives.  I'm so grateful for the family, community and church community we have that shares in the raising of our individual families, and makes countless contributions to their success, well-being, and development.  At times like this we realize anew just how blessed we really are.  We were not designed to journey through this life alone...we need the support, strength and encouragement of each other, and we especially need the wisdom, guidance and leading of our God.  Looking forward for our son, I am even more grateful that we can trust God to work in his life and direct his steps, knowing that God loves him even more than we do, and has his very best in mind.  What great reason to celebrate!!