It’s the season of commencement speeches — the time of year when dignitaries, politicians and comedians offer advice to young people graduating from high schools and colleges.
In small communities across the nation, newspaper editors traditionally join the chorus of well-wishers, soothsayers and advice-givers in offering some words of wisdom to those young people venturing out in the world.
Delivering a commencement speech may seem like a tougher job than ever in this fast-paced world of ever-evolving technology, economic and social turbulence and never-ending global conflict.
What do you say to a bright-eyed graduate facing a future that seems so different than that of generations prior?
Pretty much the same thing as commencement speakers have told every other generation; Dream big. Don’t give up on yourself. Think outside the box. Work hard. Believe in yourself.
Wear sunscreen.
Lists of the greatest commencement speeches of all times have largely the same basic message: Take risks in life.
JK Rowling, author of the Harry Potter series of books, told an audience: “It is impossible to live without failing at something, unless you live so cautiously that you might as well not have lived at all — in which case, you fail by default.”
The old chestnuts are just as relevant — and just as simplistic — today as they ever have been.
The truth is, the generations that have passed through Oak Harbor High School, or any other high school in America, have more in common than not.
Every generation has its challenges, whether it’s war or prejudice or poverty.
The students in the graduating class grew up in the shadow of Sept. 11 and the worst recession in 60 years. They don’t know of a time when cell phones, laptops and computer games didn’t exist.
But the future is truly bright. The economic clouds have parted. Social justice is at the forefront of national discussions. Technology has the potential to bring people together in ways never imagined before. There are a lot of great TV shows.
And the weather is great. The grads should have a great time and enjoy themselves in the coming days.
Just remember not to drink and drive.
Congratulations, Class of 2015. There are great things ahead for you.
