“Congrats grad!”
All is well with this praise until the follow up question. Many of the Class of 2009 graduates have heard it. Some approach it with a smile even though inside their fight or flight reaction begins to kick in. Others shake it off with a joke about basement dwelling as their parents try to make their winces go unnoticeable. Some respond bluntly. A handful burst into tears. A minority respond with ease because they have nothing to hide and they are prepared.
“What are your plans?”
This question is not metaphysical. People do not want to know about the graduation celebrations or vacation plans.....