Over the next few days and weeks, we are going to see enough graduation ceremonies to last us — well, to last us at least a year. And during those ceremonies, we will listen to speeches touting the future of these graduates and the potential they have on positively impacting the future of this community and communities throughout the country and world.

We will hear comments about scholarships won for athletic and academic achievements and we will hear comments about the hard work, dedication and desire shown by the Class of 2012.

But yet, despite all the comments about the smart decisions many of these students have made, it is the not-so-smart decisions that we often fear around this time of year.

As we have said before, we are not so naïve to think there will not be a few adult beverages enjoyed by those completing their collegiate degrees or those finishing up high school.

But while we know such things happen, we know the decision made by those who drink and then get behind the wheel of a car is exactly that; a decision. It comes down to choice and we encourage — no, plead — those who drink to please ask for a ride home, stay where you are or call someone to pick you up.

Do whatever you need to do, but do not get behind the wheel of a car and put your life and countless other lives at risk.

This time of year is to reflect on what has been accomplished, the goals reached and the future set before you.

This should not be the time of your life you should look back on with regret, remorse. This should not be the time of your life you look back on and wish you made a different decision.

As many valedictorians and guest speakers have said, this is an amazing time in the lives of every graduate. This is the beginning of a fantastic adventure.

Make sure to enjoy this time of your life, but do so responsibly.