Honor Essayist
By VANESSA STEINMEYER
Sometimes, the most meaningful things come to us when we least expect them. For me, this happened on a musty bus with every seat filled. As many of my peers can sympathize with, I was doom-scrolling on my phone when I came upon a quote that made me put it down and think. Even though my body got off that bus five months ago, my mind hasn’t been able to stop reflecting on the words I read there. I suppose I’ve built enough suspense now about the mysterious phrase, so I’ll let you in on the not-so-secret secret:
“Oh, to be so alive. To be alive. I’m weeping and I’m laughing. It’s marvelous.” -Anaïs Nin
I think the reason this had such an impact on me is because of its relevance at this point in our lives. It stands as a lesson in accepting both the times weeping and laughing, embracing that the harsh duality of life is inevitable.
But somewhere down the road,—— not literally, the bus ride wasn’t that long——, it dawned on me that “opposites,” like tears and joy, don’t have to be so separate after all.
When we spend our whole lives distinguishing things into categories, the dialogues of growth, ingenuity, and change are cut off.
But what happens when we start thinking of these “so-called” opposites dynamically? What if we twist the dialogue to realize that they, more often than not, work together rather than against each other?
What happens when we realize that rain will always turn to sun? That a mathematician can also be a poet? That a student can inspire a teacher?
When we think of these things exclusively, we close the door on so many opportunities. I hope that none of us ever feel pressured to live life on a one-track train. Instead, be like a bus whose route is never the same. I promise I’ll stop with the bus puns now. But honestly, nurturing multiple passions is the only way to lead a fulfilling life, and this starts with not being afraid to go against the norm. In my case, this is a continuation of my art while also pursuing engineering, but there are endless combinations out there for us all to try.
At this point in my speech, I must thank my incredible family. Thank you for raising me with empathy, maturity, and a consciousness of the world around me.
I feel so fortunate to have your unconditional support as I study to become an engineer, but I am even more grateful to know that I would still have it had I chosen to pursue art. And this goes for everyone, whether you’re holding a precise protractor, a thunderous hammer, a colorful paint brush, or a delicate scalpel, keep the people who support you close. When your passions are valued and appreciated, so are you.
And I can’t go on without thanking the wonderful teachers, administrators, and community here at North Reading. You have been there for every student and family sitting here today, and your hard work and dedication to us do not go unnoticed.
And lastly, to my friends: thank you for all the different meanings of life you have shown me.
To end my speech, I want to do something a little sappy, so bear with me.
To my classmates, let us imagine what our loved ones out there are thinking right now. And I mean really put yourself in their shoes. Maybe you’re their first baby to graduate, so this feeling is new and scary. Or maybe you’re the last straggler and they’re waiting to celebrate with peace and quiet. Or you’re a middle child and they just don’t know what to think.
Now hold that thought while I challenge the lovely people in the crowd to do the same. What emotions do you think your graduate is working through right now?
You know I hate to be cliché, but what are the odds we all have similar mixes flashing through our minds? Even if it’s a fleeting and jumbled mess of happy, sad, nostalgic, frightened, or excited, remember that there is a constant undercurrent of love holding it all together.
Finally, I’d encourage you to try and find your supporters in the crowd. Maybe give a little wave if you’re feeling bold. These are the people who care for you most. Let us make them proud today, tomorrow, and forever.
Thank you, and I am honored to introduce our valedictorian, the sensational Sucheta Srikanth.