This is a bittersweet time for thousands of families across Shelby County, as moms, dads, grandparents and siblings prepare to watch a loved one take an important step into the future by walking to pick up a high school diploma.

Many of the members of the graduating class of 2012 have already gotten their diplomas; some will receive theirs today or in the days directly ahead.

For 18 years, these graduates have toiled through the tough times of growing up, making mistakes, fumbling along life’s way and — finally — figuring out a few truths about themselves as they went. There’s a lot more left to experience for these young men and women, but graduating high school is one of life’s most significant first steps. But, members of the class of 2012, don’t let that piece of paper alone be your crowning achievement. That diploma can be your launching pad — whether it’s to a college education, to a first job or to a lifetime full of other achievements.

As Theodore Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss, said in “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!”: “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose.”

Take your education and put it to work for you. Continue to learn, grow and ask questions. Do your best to make a positive impact — whether it’s on your city, your school, your family or yourself.

We hope that eventually, many of you will find a way back to Shelby County and help our county grow and continue to be a state and national leader.

We’re proud of all of you graduates and we look forward to seeing what you all accomplish. Your achievements are sure to be impressive, and we can’t wait to chronicle them in these pages.

Just remember: “Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting. So … get on your way!”

The We Say is the opinion of the Shelby County Reporter editorial board.