Mark Chimsky-Lustig

I have been to lots of graduations - my own, those of family members, and those of my students. Graduations make me sentimental. I love the feeling of new beginnings and possibilities. So, when I saw this edited volume of graduation speeches at the library, I grabbed it.

And after reading seventeen graduation speeches, what am I left with? Nothing earth-shaking, but some truths that are worth hearing at any stage in your life. Some start strong, like Barbara Kingsolver: "The very least you can do in your life is to figure out what you hope for. The most you can do is live inside that hope, running down its hallways, touching the walls on both sides."

Some end with concise words of wisdom, like Molly Ivins' closing words, "Have wonderful lives, go forth unafraid." Or, the advice of Karen Tse: "Give courage and strength to others in your life in the years to come, and may you always be blessed."

Others grab attention with a provocative title, such as "Be Naked As Often As Possible": Anthropological Advice by Genevieve Bell.

Some speak from their own experiences, as when Muhammad Yunus talks about the power of technology for changing the lives of poor people. Others are not afraid to be practical, as when David McCullough advises graduates to tip hotel maids and use public libraries.

And some are honest, but hopeful, striking the perfect tone for graduation, as when Anna Quindlan says, "We live in a world in which the simple, the generous, the enjoyable, the completely present, above all the simply yourself, sometimes seems as out of reach as the moon. . . The ultimate act of bravery doesn't usually take place on a battlefield. It takes place in your heart when you have the courage to honor your character, your intellect, your inclinations, and your soul by listening to its clean, clear voice of direction instead of following the muddied messages of a timid world."

This book may not be for everyone. I suspect you have to be a little sentimental to enjoy it. But you don't have to be a graduate. These words resonate for those of us who are beginning a new chapter in our lives and could use some words of wisdom on the way.… (altro)