The best and the brightest new and soon-to-be high school graduates have graced the pages of the Journal Tribune over the last two weeks, and some have even shared their stories of challenges, struggles, and ultimately, triumph.

We applaud these young people, and all those who will make the walk across a stage or field this weekend to accept their diplomas. It wasn’t always easy, but they persevered and have this accomplishment that will make a major difference in their lives far into the future.

Some of these young people have battled illnesses, while others have struggled with their identity, but they have all overcome obstacles to make it to graduation day. From tumors to concussions to not knowing where they might call home, many of the graduates featured in this paper have experienced more challenges in their short lives than most of us will in our lifetimes. And yet, they remain positive and grateful for their time in school, and their friends, family and faculty.

One young woman, Heather Bushie, of the Old Orchard Beach Class of 2012, had moved many times, and is preparing to move again, but she speaks about her life with wisdom beyond her years.

She told a Journal Tribune reporter that if you have a problem, you need to go out and find the solution, “Don’t expect the solution to find you,” she said. And despite a tumultuous couple of years, she is looking forward to the future ”“ she plans to attend college in Hawaii ”“ and is thankful for those who supported her.

 Another young man, who graduated from Sanford High School last week, endured years of medical issues and missed many days of school, but made it to graduation on time, with his peers. Chris Turner has transverse myelitis, a neurological disorder caused by inflammation across both sides of one level, or segment, of the spinal cord. The condition caused him to lose his ability to walk, which he has regained, but only after much work and several stints of being out of school for long periods.

In addition, a separate infection caused him to miss more time in school freshman year, but with tutoring and hard work, Turner got back on track. He now has his diploma and heads off to the New England School of Communications in Bangor this fall ”“ his positive attitude in hand.

“Just tell me what I’ve got to do and I’ll do it,” he told the Journal Tribune. “My trials and tribulations taught me how to be tough and strong.”

Life will certainly try these young graduates who are setting off to college, trade school or to find work, and we hope that they remember their roots and those who supported them along the way. We also hope they heed the wisdom of their peers, to give everything their best shot and stay strong and true to themselves.

Congratulations and good luck, Class of 2012!