‘If I could talk to my younger self …’

Claflin alum Travis J. Simons speaks Sept. 23 at the matriculation convocation. (Panther photo by Rebekah Bishop)

“The wisdom that you get from here won’t just get you a degree, it will get you ready for your destiny,” Claflin students were told Sept. 23 at the 157^th matriculation day convocation.

Speaking was Associate Pastor Travis J. Simons from The Bridge Frisco (formally known as The Potter’s House North Dallas), a 2005 Claflin University graduate. The former Mr. Claflin addressed the class of 2029 with what he said is advice he would have given himself during his time at Claflin.

Simons quoted Zora Neale Hurston’s novel “Their Eyes Were Watching God”: “There are years that ask questions and years that answer.”

“She wrote this to describe the seasons of a woman’s life” Simons said. “But the truth is, it applies to all of us.”

He told students they were about to experience a semester filled with challenges and lessons.

“You’re stepping into years that will ask you and answer you all at the same time,” Simons said.

He then reflected on his personal experiences, offering the first piece of advice he would give to his younger self.

“If I could talk to my younger self, I would say ‘cherish’ all of those who see more in you than you see in yourself,” Simons said.

Simons spoke of a professor, Dr. Henry, who encouraged him to think big.

“I was in the school of religion and philosophy. Dr. Henry at the time looked at me and said, ‘Son, you have put in the work to go to an Ivy League school. … I want to stretch you to think outside of where everyone else is going,” Simons said.

He then urged students to focus on their purpose and not the attention.

“When you know who you are, you stop living for the applause of others and living because you have a purpose and an assignment.”

He also challenged students not to wait, but to take ownership of things while they are still young.

“Ownership creates options and options create freedom.” Simons said.

He advised students to get out of their heads and to stop overthinking.

“You disqualify yourself before you even arrive. Get outside of your comfort zone and take risks.”

Simons encouraged students to enjoy college but do it intentionally.

“Try new things, build relationships that last, but remember freedom without focus leads to failure. So enjoy yourself, but don’t lose yourself.” Simons said.

He cautioned students to be mindful of the relationships they build. “Everyone who smiles in your face is not your friend.”

As he concluded, he asked the audience to lean closer.

“Be the friend you want others to be to you. … Don’t let petty stuff, jealousy and envy destroy you on what you spent time building. Be intentional about forgiveness.”

Simons encouraged students to remain grounded in their faith.

“Keep him [God] at the center and you will never be off-centered. … And when you leave this place, leave not with just a diploma, leave this place better than you came.”