Kerry giving one of the nicest High School Graduation speeches at the UN school
His niece - (I think his sister, Peggy's daughter) Iris was among the graduates. He spoke of her being a great campaigner in 2004 for her Uncle John. Although there are elements from many past speeches to students, this one seems more personal, yet more soul searching advice.
Here is the conclusion, but it is worth watching or reading in its entirety.
You graduate today with an increasing reservoir of knowledge and skills. But how you use those gifts is ultimately a question of your character. And that only you can decide. So as you continue your education, I urge you to pursue arenas that excite your passions, help you to teach and serve and to heal and give back – because that is what makes life worthwhile. And remember, yes, you’ve got to have fun along the way. One of my college buddies had his nutty idea to start something called the Yale Flying Club our senior year. And admittedly, this was more of a scheme to get us out of class and off the campus. We basically spent our senior year majoring in flying, practicing takeoffs and landings. I may have given new meaning that year to Mark Twain’s quote, “Never let my schooling interfere with my education.” (Laughter.)
So each of you will leave this place with a different path in mind. Some of you may decide to work in government. Others may continue in academia. I’ll tell you this: The world is moving so fast today that I guarantee that many of you will ultimately embark on a career in a company not yet founded today using devices not yet developed today based on ideas not even yet conceived today. And no matter where you end up, no matter what you choose to do, never underestimate the power that you have to make a difference. Participation is the best antidote to cynicism. If you have questions, ask them. When you see injustices, go out and correct them. When you dream up a solution, put it on the table and pursue it and fight for it.
No matter where you come from, no matter where you’re going, the years that you’ve spent here are a spectacular introduction to responsibility. And your education does require something more of you than just serving yourself. It calls on you to give back in whatever way that you can. It requires you to serve the world around you, and yes, to try to make a difference. There is never a wrong time to stand up for an ideal or to pour the full measure of your devotion and talent into a cause that enriches both your own life and that of other people. Find something that taps into your passion, and no matter how tough the road ahead, remember what Nelson Mandela said: “It always seems impossible until it is done.” Who knows – maybe even some of you feel that way about your diploma today. (Laughter.)
So congratulations to every single one of you. I wish you great Godspeed and good luck on the road ahead, and thank you for letting me share this very special moment with you. Thank you. (Applause.)
http://www.state.gov/secretary/remarks/2016/06/258019.htm
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