This Saturday brings a rite of passage that Gloucester and Mathews seniors—approximately 470—have yearned for: high school graduation.

With their diplomas they complete the formal public education provided for them by the counties and the state, and take their next steps into life. These steps may bring the military, jobs, independence from parents, more education, and a combination of the options.

In today’s world, opportunities abound. Conventional expectations that once defined life are being stretched and expanded by today’s younger generation, and we salute them for pushing the boundaries.

We congratulate them with all best wishes. These graduating seniors have already made their marks in academics, in the workforce, and on the playing fields. A broad horizon of opportunities greets them. Our message to the grads: Go for it. ...