Though graduation is a time for celebration, it can provoke a psychospiritual crisis.

Coming-of-age is marked by realizing that truths offered by parents and culture are often inadequate guides.

Young people must find their own answers to the questions of ultimate concern.

It’s graduation season, which means it’s time for that unique oratorical offering, the commencement address. As far as I know, no Jungian analyst has ever been asked to give a graduation speech. Nevertheless, I have thoughts to share with the class of 2026. Following is what I would say if I were speaking to today’s graduates:

"Distinguished faculty, parents, and, of course, graduates, I am honored to stand before you today and share this momentous occasion with you.

A little more than four years ago, most of you were readying yourself for the journey you have just completed. Parents, guidance counselors, and teachers shepherded you through the process of visiting and choosing colleges, studying for the SATs, and filling out applications. The community around you provided attentive support to launch you from the safe harbor of high school onto the wide seas of college.

Starting from the moment you were admitted, this school welcomed you, preparing you for your voyage. When you got to campus, you were offered advisors and mentors. Every effort was made to ease your transition as you set sail.

Today, you have completed that journey. This is a time for celebration, for looking back and reflecting on who you were then, and how far you’ve come. It’s a time to appreciate the effort that it took to get here, and the courage and resilience that younger you mustered as you rose to meet the challenges—personal and academic—that you’ve faced.

I’m thrilled to be here today to wish you hearty congratulations, but........

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