Sophia R. Carey, M.S. ~ May 18, 2025
“The present moment is filled with joy and happiness. If you are attentive, you will see it.” – Thich Nhat Hanh
When we decided to travel to Connecticut for my daughter’s graduation, it quickly became more than a ceremony—it was a long-awaited road trip filled with promise:
✨ Time together as a family
✨ Grandparents driving in from Boston
✨ New memories in a city none of us had ever visited
The big day came fast. After making sure everyone was accounted for, we piled into our cars and arrived at Hartford’s massive sports complex on time. We took our seats, studied the program, started taking pictures—and suddenly, it was her moment.
Her name was called.
And 5 out of the 6 of us… had a phone in our hands. Recording.
No hands left to clap.
No roaring applause.
Just one “WOOHOO!” from me and a whole lot of silence where celebration should have been.
Sophia earned that thunderous applause.
She overcame COVID disruptions, pivoted after a disappointing grad school start, transferred, found her footing, and graduated with honors—all on her own.
And we missed our cue.
This month has tapped me on the shoulder over and over with the same message:
✋🏼 Put down the phone.
✋🏼 Let the moment unfold.
✋🏼 Clap with your whole heart.
On the 11-hour ride home, I sat with this: I watched my daughter’s milestone through a screen, missing the chance to show her how proud I am in real time.
TAKE ACTION: This week, be the applause!
Look up. Speak up. Show up.
Don’t just document the moment—live it loudly.
Make it a strong day!
One of My Regrets Is... (It helps to share)