Class of 2020

 

Yesterday was an emotional evening. The Class of 2020 graduated. It was a different arrangement due to Covid-19. Unfortunately, only the students were present and family, friends, teachers and staff watched from their homes. However, if we take a look on the bright side, more people were able to share the moment. Luckily, I had already written my speech a few weeks prior to the event. Luckily because the closer the day arrives to say goodbye, the more the emotions build up inside.

I was fortunate to be one of the `tutores´of this class. ( ´Tutores´ were I teach are appointed teachers who help the students resolve issues that they may face throughout their high school years. We call the group `tutoria´and I was blessed with a pretty special group.)

I was so fortunate that when I was told that my video had to last 3 minutes max., it did (2:56 to be exact) and I did not need to make any changes. Well, to be completely honest, I recorded it several times because I would joke up during so many parts, in the end I did get teary-eyed.

Here is my speech.

Graduation speech - December 11, 2020

 

“Good evening class of 2020. Tonight, is a night of celebration. We have joined here to commemorate your achievements, your bravery, - you. I am very grateful to have been part of this journey, which started off rough and painful with the loss of our Dani. You were very brave dealing with your grief. It was the same year that I had lost my father. Together we faced this storm. Haruki Murakami, the Japanese author, (my future husband as I always say), wrote “and once the storm is over, you won´t remember how you made it through, how you managed to survive. You won´t even be sure whether the storm is really over, but one thing is certain. When you come out of the storm, you won´t be the same person who walked in. That´s what the storm is about”. Yes, we have made it through the storm, with tears, respect and most of all love.

Maya Angelou, the American author, wrote: “We may encounter many defeats, but we must not be defeated. Nothing can dim the light that shines from within”. My dear students, you can be sure that you were not defeated. Your light is shining brighter than ever. 2020 has been a tough year. Who could have imagined that we would be celebrating your achievements this way? I know you have dreamed of your graduation in the most traditional way. Though it might sadden you, think of the amazing stories you will be able to share with future generations about 2020, the year everyone stayed home. The year you had to change your habits. The year you were forced to look inwards. The year you needed to make an extra effort to focus on your studies. The year of uncertainty. Once again, you did it. 2020 has been a lesson about relationships, family, facing challenges and hope. Although it is still not over, this too shall pass.

My dear friends, I have learned much more from you than I have taught you, and for this I will always be grateful. You have so much to give to the world. As of this moment, you are heading towards new horizons. Exciting things lay ahead in the future. Now, it´s time for me to take a step back and let you shine. I hope your dreams make you smile even brighter and take you to the most special places your heart has ever known.

I will end my speech with a quote by Mark Twain, the American author, “Throw your bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”

Thank you”

 

Written: December 12, 2020 (Class of 2020, you will be missed.)

Photo: Meire Marion

Photo: Reinaldo

Photo: Meire Marion