It's that time of year again . . . when we receive graduation announcements from "fringe" relatives and acquaintances that we barely know or haven't heard any news from or their parents in all of the intervening years. As my friend from work says "That takes a lot of balls for them to solicit gifts from distant relatives or acquaintances. I would be embarrassed if I coerce any of my kids to do such a thing like that." Don't get me wrong. I think we should celebrate every accomplishment that comes along in life but I feel that the celebrations would be more meaningful if they were celebrated by the close friends and family members who care about you the most. It's pretty tacky to send graduation announcements to those you never speak with or have anything to do with other parts of the year! Case in point . . . I have never seen nor interacted with my cousin or his family for the last 25 years. I have never seen them at any of the family get-togethers or if I did, it was just to say a cordial hello and nothing more. I don't know anything about their kids, their aspirations, hobbies, likes or dislikes. The only time I heard from his family is when I received a graduation announcement from one of his kids graduating high school. To be honest, when I get that kind of announcement from someone I'm hardly in touch with, I assume they're looking for money. (Not saying they are, but it is what comes to mind first.) I'd be more convinced of their sincerity if they wrote "No Gifts, Please." I then asked "Graduation announcement from who?" End of story.

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