Cultivate comes from Medieval Latin, cultivatus- circa 1655.
We often think of this process in the context of producing vegetables or grain - a product which has an origin from seed, cared for until ripe and ready for harvest. This also can be an important metaphor for how we approach and have prepared for life. As Cicero, the ancient Roman philosopher said, "Cultivation of the mind is as necessary as food to the body."
Days are now numbered for the Class of 2015. I wonder how the furrowed rows of knowledge will be harvested by the young people who have tendered, or not, the educational opportunities available to them over the years.
Seniors: How much did you work in cultivating these valuable seeds of experience? How much did you grow with insight and compassion? What quantity and quality of labor, care, and study helped you discover a passion and a path? How much concern for the excellent did you strive to promote in yourself and others?
We take for granted the huge undertaking necessary in providing basic food for our tables. The process from plowing, tilling, and carefully cultivating something of value takes intensive labor and refinement. We, indeed, reap what we sow. Now is the season to understand and embrace what you've acquired today and what will be required of you tomorrow.
An admonition: Young people, examine and take inventory of how you tended and prepared your field of education. Take with you what you have learned and seek new lands of opportunity.
Continue to cultivate the roots of knowledge with a craving of curiosity. Cultivate the tender shoots of optimism. Cultivate a depth of perseverance and self-discipline. Cultivate strength of character because all labor and honesty is truly not in vain. Cultivate and reinforce your place of excellence in our culture.
Go out and prevail against future storms...anticipate the harvest...because now it is time.