Graduation Speech -- Graduation Speech, Commencement Address

When we arrived at Douthitt High School as freshmen, the buildings in our school showed the signs of their 40 years of age. It might be hard to think back to that time when there was a landscaped yard in front of the cafeteria instead of a concrete courtyard, and when the grassy knoll our students enjoy on a rare sunny day didn't exist. After a few noisy years of construction, we now have a modern school. In our time here, it has gone through a complete change from old and mature, to fresh and new. We, on the other hand, have gone from being fresh and new high school students, to old, experienced, mature young adults ready to graduate. We've had many great people build us up to what we are. First and foremost, we should thank our parents for their example, wisdom and support. And although they may pretend to be sad that our high school years are over and that many of us will be going off to live on our own for the first time, don't worry. They're already secretly plotting how to redecorate our rooms. Of course, we've had many inspirational and influential teachers touch us, too. From our days of Info Tech and Freshman English to Government and Washington State, our teachers have been there for us, to lead us toward knowledge. We've had teachers who have pushed us to our academic limits with their rigorous curriculums, teachers who made us laugh every day, and teachers who have shown us support and dedication. We've sat in class as drool formed at the corners of our mouths, either because of a jaw-dropping lecture or a sleep-inducing video, but either way, we will greatly benefit from the things we've learned here. We won't forget the events that shaped our high school experience, either. We've rooted on sports teams at sta... ...o experiencing only peaks! I want my life to be one never ending ascension!" He then proceeds to crash his wagon off a high cliff. Of course, valleys and lowlands are unavoidable. Frustration and failures may come and go, but we can always know we are ascending a peak, if we are striving for love and service in life, treating people with kindness and respect. We can be the wise gurus who sit atop a mountain, inspiring others with our actions. There is no limit to what we can accomplish if we use the tools we have acquired in our time at Douthitt. We are mature from our time at this school, but we are also fresh and full of energy, like our school buildings and the people who wander them. In life, we will face many challenges, but if we remember the basics we will ultimately prevail, find success , and leave the world a bit better than when we started. Thank you.