Graduation is a stepping stone from one lifestyle to another. It is a time mixed with laughter and tears and a time to say temporary good-byes to familiar routines, teachers and friends.

The ceremony to celebrate this event is important, but what lies in the hearts and minds of the graduates will help to shape their future.

Nikki Tanksley, a Notre Dame senior, knows she'll miss her underclass friends after graduation, but she's looking forward to the freedom graduation will offer.

"Knowing in years to come you'll have a little more control of your destiny is the best thing about graduating," said Tanksley. "I'll be able to sleep a little later and pick and choose the classes I want to take."

Tanksley is planning on attending Southeast Missouri State University and majoring in environmental science. "I plan to be an environmental attorney," said Tanksley.

Being a senior at Notre Dame this year has been a unique experience. Tanksley's class is the first to graduate from the new facility. "It was a new school, and new traditions had to be started. Everybody kind of looked to us to do that," she said.

Senior Russ Mothershead of Kelly is just trying to get through the school year. "We're just trying to get through finals," he said while between events at a track meet. "After graduation we all get on a bus and go to the Show-Me Center Rec Room for a lock-in. That way we don't have to worry about the drinking and driving."

Mothershead will leave for Purdue University in Lafayette, Ind. this fall.

Graduation ceremonies aren't reserved just for high school graduates. Eagle Ridge Christian School recently held graduation/award ceremonies for all students, pre-school through senior.

Dressed in cap and gown, kindergarteners, 8th graders and seniors walked across stage, received their diplomas and moved the tassel from left to right to symbolize their accomplishments.

Patryce King made a very important walk across stage at her graduation. King's walk was in celebration of her graduation from Southeast Missouri State University.

"I've gained many skills during my college years," said King. King places her life in God's hands with the knowledge that He will guide her in the use of those skills.

King graduated with a major in piano performance and would someday like to teach at the college level. For the time being she'll be taking a few more walks across stage as she competes in the Miss Missouri pageant.

The mixed feelings of joy and sorrow aren't reserved just for the graduates. Some parents breathe a sigh of relief that their children have made it that far while others shed tears as their children prepare to go out on their own.

Being the parent of a senior this year has left me with those mixed feelings of joy and sorrow. I'm not quite ready to let go of that little girl who, just yesterday, toddled around without a care in the world.

But as I listened to my daughter, Lani Bedwell, address fellow classmates and guests at the commencement exercises, I realized she, along with many others, had grown and was ready to make her mark on society.

So, let us celebrate this stepping stone of our youth because as she so aptly said in her closing remarks, "Look out world, here we come."