EXPRESSWAY: Graduation time inspires boomer optimism

Anita Glick lives in Locust Valley.

I have never attended a graduation without feeling enormous hope and optimism - for my child, the world and even for myself.

I felt it long ago when my children "graduated" from nursery school, and I felt it just recently, when my oldest son graduated from law school. Moving-up ceremonies always impart a sense of purpose to all involved: the graduates and those who have been their emotional, spiritual and financial support systems.

While listening to the eloquent and inspirational speeches, I fully expect to feel excited about my child's future endeavors. But I am always caught off-guard when I also find myself reflecting upon my own, slightly oxymoronic middle-aged future.

Perhaps it is the blessing of being a baby boomer that encourages me and my peers to think we have a sea of productive years ahead of us. Or maybe it's the curse of the boomer label that makes us feel as if we're just getting cranked (not cranky, but motivated) on our life's journey.

Whether it is our closeness and ability to relate to our kids, or our generational optimism, we feel as if we have unlimited time to keep reinventing new and successful versions of ourselves, while still figuring out ways to leave a lasting mark on our families, friends and society. Too ambitious? Maybe, but then again, maybe not.

We offer our kids as many opportunities as we can. We educate and sensitize them to local and global issues, and we encourage them to learn and grow by getting their hands dirty - even if they eventually plan to wash them off. And, we reinforce every big lesson that emerges on the world stage.

It's no wonder that with every playing of "Pomp and Circumstance," we parents strain to absorb every motivational morsel that is set before us. It's also no wonder that as we file out of the auditorium alongside the real graduates, we carry with us just as much drive, hope and optimism as they do - and maybe even a little bit more.