Most commencement speeches at graduation are perfectly forgettable. It’s not always that the speech is bad, but the advice falls on deaf ears. And who can blame the grads? A life of formal schooling is coming to a close, and the “real world” is about to come knocking.
Sometimes, though, the greatest commencement speeches contain a wisdom we could all use. In the thick of living a life, we sometimes lose the best instructions.
I found this website the other day, GraduationWisdom.com, which contains a collection of the best commencement speeches throughout the years. From leaders in business to artists and comedians, this collection of great advice is perfect to pass along to those you know who have a graduate in their family this year.
Some of my favorite quotes include:
“It is so easy to waste our lives: our days, our hours, our minutes. … It is so easy to exist instead of live.” (Anna Quindlen)
“In football we always said that the other team couldn’t beat us. We had to be sure that we didn’t beat ourselves. And that’s what people have to do, too–make sure they don’t beat themselves.” (Woody Hayes)
“If you want to play a game, go to where it’s played and find a way to get in. Things happen when you get in the game.” (Chris Matthews)
The website has the full transcripts of many excellent speeches:
http://www.GraduationWisdom.com
Share it with those you think might benefit from the good advice. Who knows, maybe you could use a little inspiration right now yourself.
If you’re helping a grad buy a first home, you’re making a great move. I’d be glad to help you and your grad find that perfect starter home today!
Ask for Walter at (910) 340-5524 or email: walter.whitehurst@gmail.com