The Lady Is A Leader And She Has Graduated

[Dr. BJ Relefourd]

During this time of year, we find ourselves in a whirlwind of activities.  So often we are bombarded with invitations and celebrations, which culminate the accomplishments of students which have completed one level of education and are preparing for the next dimension of their lives.

This made me think about what Paul was stating when he spoke so eloquently in his writing to the church at Corinth.

When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things  1 Corinthians  13:11

This statement brought back so many memories, and seasons in life.  The basic thought of this statement is that Paul graduated!  Paul matriculated or matured as a student of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and began to share some of his past experiences.

As a child or an immature vessel, there are some statements, and actions which are familiar to childhood.  A child pouts when he or she can have things “their” way.  As a graduate surely you have learned that changing your facial expressions do not cause a change to come into fruition.

Paul also pulled off the mask and placed on the graduation cap or mortar board and explained to the Corinthian church, that his conversation resembled that of a child or person of immaturity.  The weight of his vocabulary was of such that it may not have been delivered in the most beneficial manner.

Lastly he placed all his cards on the table, by allowing the church of Corinth to be aware that his thoughts, views and even possibly his aspirations were so limited; because he had a child-like outlook on his surroundings and possibly felt, his potential was reach, while yet in its infantile state.

What an amazing time when a student walks across the stage and receives a piece of paper, which displays to all, that you did not give up, that you hung in there.  It is amazing that a piece of paper, which originated from a tree, which was born of a seed, could carry such weight and prestige.

My hope is that as we graduate that we  also rejoice because as Paul continues, he lets you and I know that graduation is vital to success and productivity.

 What  I love about this passage is you also have an opportunity to present  ” A Brand New Kinda Me”.  Paul says, but;  or I know how I used to be, and I know what I used to say, I even shared with you how I used to think.  But when I became a man, when I matured, when I grew up, when I came to myself, when I graduated; I put away childish things!

My desire for each of you is to graduate, move distinctly from a level of immaturity to a level of maturity.  Proceed with wisdom and advance into an atmosphere of growing, caring and loving as Christ has loved us.  Though there are corporate graduation ceremonies, each student must achieve and succeed individually.  I ask you not to compare your date of graduation with someone else’s date.  I also wish for your graduation to be a process which allows you to gain some valuable tools which are essential for your life.

Congratulations on your graduation, when you walk this time you will walk in maturity and POWER!

Walk In Power,

Dr.  BJ Relefourd

Lady LaKesia Scott- Editorial Proofreader

Women of Power Woman of the Year 2014