2012 Graduates

See video here: Speech

In David McCullough's 2012 commencement speech to Wellesley High School graduates, he tells the outgoing students that they are not special.

I agree.

The world tends to be a very tough place.  Unfortunately, we don't seem to do a very good job, anymore, of preparing our kids for this reality.  We often protect and pamper them, never letting them see the unfairness, ugliness, and selfishness that is so often present in the life of an adult.

Most people graduate from high school.  Virtually everyone holds a job at some point in their life.  Most people register to vote.  Most get married and have kids.  None of these things is special.

What makes us special, what makes us stand out in the world, is our ability to do what others cannot.

A soldier, fire fighter, or police officer who has the courage to place another's life above his or her own is special.  A doctor or nurse who forgoes food and sleep to care for victims of a tragedy is special.  A teacher, pastor, or counselor who makes the time and effort to get through to a troubled teen, the entrepreneur who risk financial security to chase a dream the politician who goes against his or her party to stand up for what's right, these people are special. These are the people deserve our regard, respect, and appreciation.

Specialness is earned; it's not inherent.  You can't be born special.  So one else can make you special.

Anyone who wants to be special must take the risk, make the sacrifices, and do the work.  You will get help along the way, but you will also find obstacles.  You will experience failure.  You will be rejected, betrayed, and ridiculed.  It's the courage and tenacity to strive on, regardless of the cost that leads to specialness.

Be special.  And God bless.