Distinguished parents, faculty, guests, and schoolmates

Hello

I am Samuel Wang from grade twelfth. And I am honored to speak today on behalf of all graduates. 

Today marks the end of a great journey. We walked head-on towards a road of thorns, stared all difficulties and struggles in the eye and strived up. The quizzes, tests, speeches, and debates; the drowsy eyes in late night studies, the fatigue of waking up early to a new day; The pandemic and all the inconvenience it brought us all lead to stress, challenges, and anxiety on every one of us. But no matter how much of an uphill battle it was, we made it through. Standing here, accomplished and victorious, we should be proud of ourselves.

But, of course, we didn’t do everything by ourselves. Look around you, the friends, family, mentors, who were next to you during every step you took: the laughter and joy given to us even during the hardest times; the care and guidance gifted to us during times of confusion; and the encouragement and praises shined down on us when all seemed lost. I couldn’t make it without them. We couldn’t make it without them, so remember to congratulate them as well when you pat yourself on the back.

Today is also the beginning of a new journey.  New school, new environment, new stories to be found, new connections to be made.  We have come this far as warriors, why let a little fear worry you? I wish a bright future upon all those who are present. A whole new world will be there for us to play in, to grow in, and to achieve great things in.

To my dear friends who are not graduating today, remember that this is also the beginning of your new journey. With the right amount of hard work, support from others, and a little bit of luck, you too could stand here and express your stories and emotions. This stage, this speech, this occasion, is reserved for every one of you.  Whether it’s a year, two years, or three years before graduation, now it’s a good time to start making goals, to start mapping out your destination. 

The great tactician Zhuge Liang once famously wrote in his memorial to the throne: “I depart now on a long expedition; Blinded by my own tears, I know not what I write.”

Today I will also set foot on my own expedition, leaving the community I have lived in for many years. Here, the people I’ve met, the experiences I’ve been through, will always be great treasures of my life that words could hardly describe. I’m going to miss the scenery, the trees, the flowers, the cherry blossoms that only lasts for a few days, and the willow trees that dances along the soothing spring breeze. I’ll miss the lake, and the feeling of seeing the dazzling reflection shine with each row. I’ll miss the people. The wise and friendly faces that mentored and helped me, gave me the courage and strength to carry on. I will miss it all.

Before I go, I would like to yet again thank my school, for the years of understanding, commitment and care.

I wish everyone health and prosperity, and a promising future for our graduates.