Graduation Speech -- Graduation Speech, Commencement Address

Hello, Class of 2012. We're graduating. June 12 is the day we have worked toward for the past 12 years. We have reached the time where we say good-bye to Hayes and hello to our futures outside its hallowed walls. Our teachers have taught all they can about life's many obstacles and pitfalls, and even taught us a few tricks on how to work them out. Every year we have met new teachers who have made such an impact on our lives that we keep in contact throughout the years. They gave us memories to cherish and keep with us. They have been there for us when we needed them, and they never complained. We knew we could always go to them with our problems and not be judged. We have had our star athletes, our strong academic students, and our extraordinary artists and performers. But I believe the strong, the extraordinary, the stars of Hayes High School were and always will be the teachers. We will never forget them. We're graduating. The stars in our life are not only found inside Hayes' walls, but elsewhere. These people have to put up with us every day and every night. They hav...

Heroism Definition Essay Essay

When asked to describe what a hero is, more often than not people would use movie characters such as The Amazing Spider ­Man, Superman, Batman, or Captain America to provide examples of what best reflects the character traits of a hero. By definition, a hero is a person who is admired or idealized for courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities. This being said, these movie characters are very good examples of a hero. However, heroes can also be found among everyday people such as you and me. Being a hero involves risk and it is initiated without the expectation of any material gain. In the book Grendel by John Gardner, Beowulf is the ultimate hero to the Geats because he is selfless in character and goes out of the way to serve the needs of others. The ultimate hero is a person who leads by example and puts the needs of others before his or hers, no matter the cost. The most heroic person in my life is my mother. She does not give me everything in the world, but she gives me what I need and that is enough. She leads by example and has taught me how to be content with who I am and the things that I have, and to make the most of each opportunity I am given. Without her guiding me throughout my life, I fear that I would be helpless and would not truly value the gift of life.

My Beach Memories

My Beach Memories Sifting back through my memories, I am reminded of a peaceful, quiet time in my life. My mind drifts back to a happy place of relaxation and tranquility. I am able to remove myself from all the continued chaos of everyday life. Sitting on the sand, feeling the warmth of the sun, all of my troubles quickly melt away. I can feel the soft, wet sand as my skin melts into it, reminding me that I have no deadlines to meet or no place to rush off to now. The cool, crisp water feels exhilarating as it rushes over my body. As the ocean waves crash against me, I can still feel the sting of the fine ocean mist and the pungent taste of the salt as it sprinkles over my face. The fresh smell of the salty ocean water clears my sinuses as I synchronize my breathing with the ebb of the tide. Lying quietly in the sun, I can feel its warmth engulfing me like a large fuzzy blanket covering my skin. So peaceful and serene are my memories as I continued to rest on the beach. I can still hear the crash of the water against the rocks. The ocean birds' songs still echo in my head as they sang me to sleep on the soft, warm sand. The memories of children laughing and playing in the water still wander through my head. I also remember the sounds of seagulls chirping as they glide over my paradise. Having not a care in the world, could there be a more wonderful place? The sun sets softly behind the large palm trees as the wind gently blows salt and sand against my body as I sit and watch. The air turns cooler as the night begins. I can see millions of twinkling stars, as I get lost in their magic and mystery. It seems as if time is frozen no worries or stress to cloud my mind. I can be free to dream and ponder over all of my desires. Sitting quietly on the beach, I can be free. These fond memories are my pathway to escape from reality. Even if the moment is brief, it is long enough to rekindle my desire for life. Just reminiscing over my time at the beach has rejuvenated my wayward mind and wilting body. I can go back to my happy place any time I desire. I have such fond memories of the beach. I will never forget how peaceful, relaxing, and beautiful my favorite place has been to me.