Borrowed Wisdom
Those seeking wisdom and knowledge find themselves on the threshold of the rest of their lives. With 18 years behind them, they look forward to life and the opportunities that lie ahead.
Naively, some see the commencement of 14 years spent laden with homework, tests, quizzes and lectures as the end of education, when in reality it is only the beginning.
Clad in mortar boards and robes of every color, you grasp your future with both hands, realizing that knowledge comes but wisdom lingers.
To you, graduates of the Class of 2009, we impart these simple truths borrowed from philosophers:
Read, every day, something no one else is reading. Think, every day, something no one else is thinking. Do, every day, something no one else would be silly enough to do. It is bad for the mind to be part of unanimity.
Aim for success, not perfection. Never give up your right to be wrong because then you will lose the ability to learn new things and move forward with your life.
A tree is known by its fruit and a man by his deeds. A good deed is never lost, for he who sows courtesy reaps friendship and he who plants kindness gathers love.
If you achieve success you will get applause and if you get applause you will hear it. Our advice to you concerning applause is to enjoy it but never quite believe it.
We can try to avoid making choices, but even that is a decision.
Never, never, never, say never.
Success seems to be largely a matter of hanging on after others have let go.
Congratulations and best wishes.