My Graduation Speech
I have attended two grade promotions this week. With a 6th grader and an 8th grader finishing their educational career at their respective schools, we watched them be honored for their educational and character achievements. One was honored by the English department and the other for having “the kindest heart in the school” and for being driven by a “strong moral compass.” Both made dad incredibly proud.
Part of the two promotions were motivational speeches from principals and teachers. When I was a kid, our promotion to a new school was never given pomp and circumstance. We just went home for the summer and showed up to a new school a few months later. The motivational speech was reserved for high school graduation. I know someone spoke at my high school graduation, but I do not have the slightest memory of who spoke. And sadly, what sage advice they attempted to sow in our young minds. Seeds tossed on rocky ground.
With that in mind, I sat through two school promotions this week wondering what I would say to these students. What I wish I had driving me to my next phase in life and education. And so, Class of 2025, whether graduating from high school or college, whether promoted from elementary or junior high school, let me offer four principles that will change your next few years and guide you into adulthood.
Learn to be present. Life is happening all around you. It never stops, even if we don’t recognize it. But I promise, whatever you are looking at on your phone is not as important as the people around you. Put your phone down and be present to your friends and family. And even the stranger who may need your attention as much as you need theirs. Someday, the people you love will be gone and you’d give anything to have another moment with them, a moment you are likely wasting on Instagram.
Understand that life is good. Life may not be easy, but that’s what gives us strength. Life may not be perfect, but that’s what keeps us humble. But at it’s most difficult, life can still be good. Our grandparents often sang songs about “counting our blessings.” There is always something to give thanks for, when we stop comparing and begin recognizing all that we have been blessed with.
Be fearlessly curious. No matter how successful or smart we may be, there are things we do not know. Despite the pompous efforts some people we all know, no one knows it all. Pretending like we do makes us miserable. moving from wonder to curiosity is what makes a satisfying life. Explore. Take risks. Wonder. Dream. Discover things that take your breath away and create a sense of awe. Those experiences fulfill you and make you interesting to others.
You matter. Every single one of us will have feelings to the contrary, but the world would be a worse place if you were not in it. The contributions you make to life in general may seem small to you but make a difference. Real quick, think of the most important person in your life. Somewhere, someone is thinking of you that way right now. Every one matters. Even you. So treat yourself like you are important, and do not beat yourself up. A related principle… since everyone matters, treat others like they matter, too.
These may seem obvious. But like to many simple ideas, we need to be reminded even as adults. (Simple ideas like “eat your vegetables” and the whole “do unto others” concept.) Even if it’s been years, or decades, since you walked the stage with a robe on your back and a diploma in hand, these are not bad things to keep in the front of your mind, guiding your days.
To the Class of 2025, and every year before, look how much you have done! You have accomplished so much! Now dream of what you will do next! Because our home, and communities, the world, is its best when we all live up to our best. And if you’re timid about the next chapter, there’s a word for that: it’s ”normal.” Turn the page. Take the step. Maybe take a deep breath first, but go for it nonetheless. You’ve got this!
For my favorite five-minute graduation speech, check out director Baz Luhrmann’s 1999 hit “Everybody’s Free to Wear Sunscreen” here.
