GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education Silveria Jacobs offered words of encouragement to students departing the country for study overseas.
“Life's journey is always an adventure, a path filled with decisions and actions that affect the hills and valleys of success and challenges. As you students embark on a new step on your path of life I offer you words of encouragement, strength, courage and determination to persevere.
“Many tiny steps have brought you to this point, with encouragement from parents, teacher’s family and friends, or maybe despite lack of same - Yet you are here.
“As you embark on this next leg, remember to stay focused on your end goal while enjoying the journey. Always plan for the "what ifs?" and surround yourself with persons who can help you out of a dip. Never take anything or anyone for granted. Relationships are important...seek strong bonds with people who can help you forward or whom you can help forward.
“Who you may have overlooked yesterday may become your best support tomorrow.
“Put God first, have faith he will see you through.
“Be confident and bold, represent yourself with the respect that you expect in return and your voice will be heard.
“Whether you are travelling to Europe, the USA within the region or staying on St. Maarten knows that we at the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports are here to help you on your way. Do remain in contact with us in order to receive the service you need. It is also your responsibility to stay informed.
“Some may not be at this stage while that had been the plan and are contemplating their next move: do over, do something else, give up, go to work, and the list goes on. Giving up is not an option... seek a way over, around, research a new path or just try again. Work hard and push to the next level of your personal development. Nothing in life just falls in your lap, your faith, your actions and your prayers can influence them. Work hard, pray hard and take time to play. Life is a journey meant to savour not a race to end quickly.
“Much success as you move on to the next level of your lives, with new independence, new responsibilities, a renewed sense of purpose and the resolve to make the most of it. Every experience will serve to strengthen you so use them as life lessons.
“Parents, you will continue to love and support them on this journey, much success to you on this next leg as well. You should be very proud.
“Students, May God bless you and keep you all safe on your journey to your dreams!!! YOU are St. Maarten, her past, present and future. Much success!"
Minister Jacobs to Students: Life’s Journey is Always an Adventure.
