The Myopia of the Young

After my senior year in high school, I went back to my elementary/middle school and gave a graduation speech. Well, technically, I reckon it was a promotion speech. (The students were being promoted from 7th to 8th grade, I believe. Or, something of that matter.)

The principle behind the speech I wrote is that any student can begin again. Any student can slough off older, lower expectations of parents, teachers and peers in order to create a higher standard for themselves. For instance, if a student did poorly one year, the next year the student could perform excellently. The primary message to the students was not to let anyone trap them in a pattern of poor performance.

I specifically said, Don't let your teachers talk to you about a permanent record. I've never seen a permanent record. Each year is an opportunity to begin again. (paraphrased)

Well, that was the wisdom of a seventeen year old. And while that was a very emotionally engaging and inspiring speech, it is one I would vastly revise if ever asked to speak before young students again.

A lot of the parents loved the idea -- to pursue excellence despite previous setbacks.

But, there are records. At 25, I think I would encourage students to pursue excellence in spite of them.