Every time someone graduates, I include a list of my own pearls of wisdom in the card with the check. These are two of my favorites. “Be the Leader of Yourself.” If you do this, then you will not be persuaded to do something reckless, stupid, or illegal. You will always pause and use every opportunity to practice discerning judgment. “Don’t Get Caught in the Poppy Fields on the Way to Oz.” The obvious reference is don’t do drugs, but it also means avoid any bad habits, negative influences, shiny objects that distract you from achieving your goals, that keep you from walking a path of integrity. Ask yourself often, “Would the child you were be proud of the grownup you turned out to be?” Be an asset to society, not a burden; and in a world where everything has a price, remember kindness is free. Cherie Holton Louisiana _____ …