Inspiring, humorous, wisdom imparting. Some of the best speeches are delivered in the educational context. Upload your commencement or graduation speech here. The Washington Post states in this article that Vonnegut never delivered this speech.
It was a a column written by Mary Schmich for the Chicago Tribune about a speech she would have liked to give to a graduating class, which was later posted online and attributed by a third party to Vonnegut. But it is so much a part of commencement lore Speakola has included it. If I could offer you only one tip for the future, sunscreen would be it. The long-term benefits of sunscreen have been proved by scientists, whereas the rest of my advice has no basis more reliable than my own meandering experience.
I will dispense this advice now. Enjoy the power and beauty of your youth. Oh, never mind. You are not as fat as you imagine. Or worry, but know that worrying is as effective as trying to solve an algebra equation by chewing bubble gum. The real troubles in your life are apt to be things that never crossed your worried mind, the kind that blindside you at 4 pm on some idle Tuesday. Your choices are half chance.
Enjoy your body. Use it every way you can. Get to know your parents. Be nice to your siblings. Understand that friends come and go, but with a precious few you should hold on. Work hard to bridge the gaps in geography and lifestyle, because the older you get, the more you need the people who knew you when you were young. Live in New York City once, but leave before it makes you hard. Live in Northern California once, but leave before it makes you soft.
Accept certain inalienable truths: Prices will rise. Politicians will philander. You, too, will get old. Maybe you have a trust fund.
