To me, it feels like many high schools have similar bases for a graduation speech, usually including how everyone was friends and no one hated each other. But as a recently graduated high school senior, I can tell you that this is not always the case. And if I were to speak at graduation, it would go something like this:
Hello Everyone,
As a little, shy seventh grader, I walked through the school's doors for the first time, not expecting to lose the ones that were closest to me. As the years went on I realized that this was unfortunately not the case. I lost many friends, but I also gained new ones. I learned how I would soon grow a dislike for others, maybe even some hatred, depending on who they are. Now I know the typical graduation speech would be everything good that has happened in high school, but I will not stand up here and lie about the imperfections we have faced for the past four years. As much separation as there was during the years, I do wish each and every one of you the best of luck in what you choose to do. This small school should not hold you back from your big dreams.
To the teachers that have had to deal with us these past few years, I wanted to thank each and every one of you for doing everything you could to keep us in line. On behalf of everyone, I am sorry for the many times your patience ran out. Our class can be loud, high spirited, and have no care in the world, but it helps when most of the teachers at the school believe in us. And to those who only treated us worse in return, please understand that we are still kids. We still have a lot to learn, and a lot to see. We are just starting our adventure into the real world, while you have been living it for many years. You were once a kid, you once made stupid decisions, so please do not shove us to the curve, but help us learn from our mistakes.
High school may be ending, but know that your lives are just beginning. And with that being said, here are a few words of wisdom to take with you. One, please do not worry about the test. I myself spent much of my high school career stressed and anxious. That one test will not dictate your everlasting fate on this earth. Two, please take every opportunity you can. If there is a sports game, go. If there is a dance, dance your ass off. If there is a musical, sing along. We only have so much time to act as young as we are, so do not waste it. Three, follow your heart, and your mind. Never worry if you made a choice that would later be a mistake. The thing about the mistake you made is that you were either following your mind or your heart, and you cannot blame yourself for making what you thought was a good choice.
High school is not for everyone, and I hope your future is everything you make it to be.
