These are either unique individuals leaving our NVS nest today [June 10, 2016]. They invited me to deliver their graduating address.
As I always say, there’s No virtue in being ordinary.
You are each unique, individual, extraordinary—no two alike, which is the way you’re created. All too often people become cookie cutter adults—but not you. I salute your individuality.
And I have something for you. Under your seat, each of you will find a box:
No two are alike; they are different shapes, sizes, colors—each one just for you.
What if I told you that inside was a diamond worth more than 80 thousand dollars? You’d be pretty happy, wouldn’t you? But that’s not true. There’s no diamond in your box. Guess what: Instead, you have A treasure of even greater value inside your head and heart: it’s the New Vistas education you’ve just completed, that you’ll take with you forever.
But what is inside your box? In it, a few things the same, to represent, symbolically, my wishes for each of you.
A feather—you each have a feather in your cap; you’ve graduated from high school. At times it’s been fun, but it hasn’t always been easy. Congratulations. You deserve it!
A rubberband—be willing to be somewhat flexible out there in the world; listen to what others have to say, weigh and evaluate and grasp it. You’ll be the wiser for it.
A penny—to represent a penny for your thoughts. I want you to always be heard. You have strong voices—some quiet, some more subdued, all thoughtful--important things to say. Say them. They’re worth way more than a penny.
AND something unique, individual, just for you, to represent my respect for you as “one of a kind, extraordinary.”
Josh—A rock, for your strength. It will serve you well in whatever you strive to do. But not just any rock, a rock, for you to build on, Josh, to represent your strong foundation. You’ve proven you can be strong in body AND mind—can I say Honor Roll? Let me remind you, this rock is NOT symbolic of a fortress, to keep others out, but a foundation for you to grow from
Jean—UVA stickers--not just to represent our beloved Wahoos—go Hoos—but to represent your enthusiasm, your zest for life, your positive energy. Most of all, stick with that approach, Jean, never lose that optimism, and you’ll do whatever you decide to do.
Corbin—a lighter—you’ve got it all, now—skills, poise, charm, opportunity; it’s time for you to light your own fire, to use the fuel you’ve acquired here at NVS to spark your bright future. Remember when things are tough to use your lighter to shine the way. It’s the things we work hard for that we value the most.
Christian—a miniature GLOBE—there’s a great big world out there; you don’t need to swallow it whole, but do nibble at it, with care and confidence. Yes, keep writing your fantasy stories. But be a part of the real world, too. Sing your song. That world, large and small, needs gentle people like you to balance all the noise.
Gabby—a sunshine charm; we’ve all heard the song, “You are my sunshine”—Gabby, you truly are; you bring that wonderful smile and optimism wherever you go; as a young adult you will encounter dark skies, dark days, but don’t lose that beautiful quality of joy in your heart. The world is better for it.
Heather—a key, to represent opening doors; when you came to New Vistas you opened a new door, to learning as much as you’re able to learn, to focusing on using your mind to the best of its ability; keep opening those doors. This key isn’t magic, Heather, but you’re not going to need magic, just your determination to use your brain to be your best self.
Tyler—a dream catcher—you’ve worked hard and accomplished your first big dream, becoming an EMT. As I watched you study I was so gratified at your willingness to dig deep and work hard and challenge yourself to achieve what you wanted. Don’t stop dreaming there—keep on, go to college, reach for your next big medical goal. I have no doubt you’ll catch it.
Trey—an official hero badge—your very own—T MAN!—Trey came to us a shy, withdrawn little boy; we are so proud to have been part of his journey into a strong, confident young man. He’s always loved SuperHeroes—I think he still does—Batman in particular. But Trey is a true hero, not a fantasy character. He is mighty in his work ethic, powerful in his commitment to take on the next challenge, and honest and kind daily in word and in deed. We need more true heroes like you, Trey, in this world.
So, to each of you I say, congratulations. Job well done. The best guidelines I can send you away with haven’t changed: Respect yourself, respect others, respect the world you live in.
But I kind of like the words of Conan O’Brien, Harvard graduate, so I’ll send you off with his charge: “Work hard, be kind, and amazing things will happen.”
Charlotte G. Morgan, MEd, MFA
Head of School, New Vistas School
