Tis the exciting season of graduation, and you know that means: Cake!
Oops, I mean commencement addresses.
Oh, I am so sorry for that let down, but I do have good news for you.
Not only have there been some terrific speakers around the country this year, but they offer inspiring, joyful, and sometimes amusing messages on courage, clarity and change.
Daring Courage
Indiana University graduate Parker Mantell spoke at his graduation, in front of 17,000 people, where he revealed the secret he had mostly kept from his fellow students: he has a stutter.
I can’t imagine the courage it took for this young man to take the stage, but what encouraging words he shared about the importance of not letting doubt stop you from moving towards your dreams!
Here is just a portion:
Beethoven was deaf – imagine if he never dared to listen to his calling to compose music. Ray Charles was blind. Imagine if he had never dared to envision that he could touch the keys of a piano. Albert Einstein was dyslexic – imagine if he had never dared to embrace saying things differently by formulating equations. FDR couldn’t walk. Imagine if he had never dared to run. Imagine what you are depriving our world of if you never dare to achieve your purpose.
Watch the address here: Parker Mantell video (8 minutes)
If you prefer to read, the transcript is here: Dare to do what others have doubted you can
Providing Clarity
Next up is author, speaker, online university founder, Dennis Prager.
The university website states:
Just as a shot of espresso boosts your energy, a shot of Prager University boosts your brain. Because not only will you have more knowledge – you will have more clarity. There are no fees, books, homework assignments, or grueling midterms here – just clear, life changing ideas from world-renowned thinkers. With short videos on political science, economics, history, religion and life, Prager University offers big ideas on big topics.
Prager’s five-minute speech is one he would have liked to give, and is similarly brief, enlightening, and to the point.
My favorite is his Idea #4: Beware of Good Intentions. Lots of food for thought and a very fresh perspective there!
You can find the video and transcript at this link: What Every Grad Should Know
Creating Change
Last and certainly not least is the address given to the graduating class at University of Texas at Austin, by alumnus Admiral McRaven who has been a Navy SEAL for 36 years.
He shared 10 Lessons to Help Change the World, drawing on his original SEAL training experience. His delivery is delightful, meaningful, and practical. As a parent, I especially loved this point: If you want to change the world, start off by making your bed.
Moms, how can you not love this message already? 
My favorite part of his address was how everyone, in spite of their best effort, sometimes becomes a “sugar cookie”.
The video is long—close to 20 minutes—but the Admiral’s delivery and encouragement is well worth your time.
You can read the transcript and/or watch Admiral McRaven at the university website:
10 Lessons to Help Change the World
Question: What message would you share if given the opportunity?
On Saturdays, I share refreshment and insight for your life.
Top Photo: Dennis Jarvis
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