Time to Discover Our Purpose

BY SCHOLAR OF SCHOLARS COLE VILLAR

When writing the story of your life, don’t let anyone else hold the pen.” These are wise words from one of the most influential philosophers of our day, Aubrey Graham … or, as most people know him, Drake.

We began a journey together four years ago—fresh out of middle school and eager for a new and exciting adventure at Dana Hills—new friends, Friday night football games, parties. Who would have guessed that several months later, we would be attending classes from home in our pajamas?

We are most likely the only generation that will be able to say our high school experience was upended by a global pandemic.

But we made it and learned that life is unpredictable. Our being here today is a testament to our determination and fortitude.

Four years later, we are about to turn the page again and embark on yet another exciting adventure.

The world is changing at a rapid pace not seen since the Industrial Revolution. With the evolution of Artificial Intelligence, we will likely be the last generation that actually drives ourselves to school.

People are now buying land in the Metaverse, and we can now press a button and have ChatGPT compose a perfectly crafted essay on any topic in mere seconds. (Don’t worry, Dr. Baker, no student at Dana Hills would ever do that. They even say that in the next few years, AI will be virtually indistinguishable from human beings.)

It is now up to us to ensure that technology does not destroy our humanity. We are at an inflection point in our civilization, and the progression of science must not impede our ability to form meaningful relationships with those around us.

Or, as my mom would say, sometimes we need to put down our devices and connect with one another. There is no substitute for real conversation and real connection.

Many of us are going off to college; some have chosen a different path, but whatever route we take, there will no doubt be twists and turns along the way.

those who never fail but those who pick themselves up and keep going.

I encourage you to pursue your passions and dreams with determination. Do not let fear hold you back; never underestimate your abilities. You have achieved so much and have the unlimited potential to achieve even more. Believe in yourself, and the world will believe in you.

Finally, I want to remind you of the power of empathy and kindness. In a world that can sometimes feel harsh and unforgiving, your ability to connect with others on a deep and meaningful level will be your greatest asset.

Take the time to listen to others, understand their perspectives, and offer a helping hand when needed. Together, we can create a world that is more compassionate, more inclusive, and more just.

As Ted Lasso once said, “You know what the happiest animal on Earth is? It’s a goldfish. You know why? Got a 10-second memory. Be a goldfish, Sam.”

So, Class of 2023, as you move forward and face the challenges ahead, remember to stay present and take things one step at a time. Embrace your inner goldfish, and don’t let setbacks define you; let them teach you.

Keep moving forward with determination, resilience, and kindness; the world will be a better place because of it. Congratulations, Dolphins!

There is a sign that hangs in my bedroom, and it reads: “Whatever you are, be a good one.” I think what Abraham Lincoln meant by this message is to embrace every experience that life has to offer, and choose to be the best version of ourselves.

That being said, I am confident that each and every one of us has the courage to confront adversity head on and make a meaningful difference. This is the time in our lives when we must embrace independence and discover our purpose. The important thing is to always chase your dreams and never stop questioning.

On behalf of the entire graduating class, I want to sincerely thank our parents, teachers, coaches, principals and administrators at Dana Hills. You have gotten us this far. It is now time for us to hold our own pen, to write the next chapter of our autobiographies.

And I look forward to eventually reading all of your stories.

I wish you all the best of luck, and I hope our paths will cross again. Thank you.