Graduation season has arrived. Whether you are attending a commencement ceremony this year or not, you can benefit from a the wisdom of over 300 of the most notable commencement speeches ever given in the United States (1774-2013). This incredible resource was compiled by NPR.
The Dalai Lama’s remarks at Tulane last year made the list as did 26 other 2013 speeches. In his speech, the Dalai Lama said
I heard you mention your own state and your own nation – that’s wonderful and as it should be. But at the same time, America, the greatest democratic country, you should look at the whole world – the global level. Actually I’m often telling people that America is the leading nation of the free world – very important. Think on the global level. In order to create a sense of global responsibility, it is extremely important to develop a concept of oneness of humanity. Seven billion human beings – we are part of that. Seven billion people are happy as well as the major positive environment, then everyone gets a benefit. If on a global level, seven billion people are facing some type of difficulties, individuals cannot escape that . . . our hope is lying on your shoulders. Please think seriously on how to build a happy century, a peaceful century.
So What?
While I was not present for any of the commencement speeches on NPRs impressive list, I have learned from and been inspired by many such speeches over the years. I encourage you to share wisdom from a commencement speech that you found inspirational (it can be one you heard, one you came across while browsing NPR’s list, or one you learned of in some other way).