As you embark on this next phase of life, if you remember nothing else, remember that your destiny is whatever you choose. Many will try to tell you that your destiny is predetermined and already set in stone, but nothing can be further from the truth! Who you are and who you will become will ultimately be determined by what you do from this moment forward.
You have already attained one phenomenal feat, graduation! The importance of the next leg of the journey is not necessarily where you are headed, but the steps in which you get there. Whether you graduated from high school or college, each of you has come to a realization that the past comforts of life are fading away and the true essence of living is just beginning. Decisions and consequences take on a new meaning and the shield of parental influences or family and friends who have blocked harm and nudged you in one direction or another, is no longer as accessible. Today marks the journey of self-realization. It is exciting and frightening at the same time, but rest assured, it is a journey we all have traversed and equally thrived in. There is no reason to think you cannot do the same.
We started by talking about destiny and destiny can be summarized as hope realized and dreams coming to fruition through perseverance, hard work, dedication, and determination. If you want it, go get it! And although you may not have the familiar protectors and providers, there is a new crop of companions and confidants that you have bonded with and forged a special connection. Everyone who walks this stage are the graduates of 2015 and there is a small pool who can claim that honor. The unity and camararderie that comes with that common ground is a catalyst to build not only life-long friendships, but also legacies. Rally around one another, support each other, encourage and push your fellow graduate, and most importantly be accountable to one another. No one person is an island and none of us can conquer the world alone. Together the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Like a hand, fingers by themselves can easily be broken, but when a fist is formed, a mighty blow is delivered, the body is defended, and attacks are warded off. Together you are the fists of the future and the first bell just rang for the next round!
Enjoy this moment, you deserve it. Humbly accept the accolades and graciously take in the praises. Just do not rest on those laurels. You have been blessed with an opportunity to chase your dreams and if you make the right choices more often than not, because we all have made poor choices from time to time, you can actually catch that dream. Again, do not let anyone but you dictate your destiny. When writing the story of your life, do not let anyone else hold the pen. Nothing wrong with being a dreamchaser either. Dreamchasers are life-changers, the ones that advance civilization, create a better society, and build a future for all mankind. We need you to succeed, so chase your dreams!
Congratulations to all of the graduates of 2015 and when you look back on this moment I hope it is from a place of a caught dream and a destiny fulfilled.
A special kudos goes out to the 2015 class of #Kahuku High School. Many schools and administrations frown upon theatrical outbursts as graduates walk the stage, but there is not one person who could question this awesome display of school spirit and unity. Enjoy what may go down as the greatest graduation ceremony in history! Without a doubt they have definitely set the bar and most assuredly are #trendsetters in their own right.
Awesome words of wisdom
Thank you very much Jessica!