Stephen Sena’s Valedictory Address at Grossmont High School

See photos from the 2013 Grossmont High School Graduation

Stephen Sena delivered this valedictory speech June 19, 2013, at Grossmont High School’s commencement.

My fellow Foothillers, I begin by addressing that many of you insisted that I include you in my words to you today. However, as much as I’d love to ramble on for hours about how much I’ll always cherish the times we all shared together, I am limited to a few minutes of your time—to the relief of my English teachers, I’m sure, and to any who have had the pleasure of reading my exceedingly long sentences. 

So to all my honorable mentions, you know who you are, and you have my thanks, especially to those who honored me with a sash and a crown at Homecoming and later came to witness my failed attempt at removing the Queen’s elusive sock during Battle of the Sexes. 

Danika Brown, all I can say is that you will always have my utmost respect. And on a similar note, Sang Choi, I speak for all of us, you will always be our Prom King, and whether you like it or not, we still owe each other 400 Milk Duds.

Class of 2013, all I can say is that after countless due dates, projects, tests, presentations, late nights, early mornings, skipped breakfasts and innumerable clubs, sports and commitments weaved in between, I think we can fairly say that we’ve earned our spots here today, dressed in our snazzy yet slightly uncomfortable caps and gowns. 

I commend each and every one of you for your determination and diligence in reaching this point. It wasn’t easy, but looking back, it’s easy to say that it was definitely worth it.

It’s important to note that none of us got here on our own. Surrounding us today are the brave adults who held our hands, wiped away our tears and stood their ground with us from diaper to diploma. 

We owe them our deepest gratitude and sincerest appreciation for helping grow us into the young men and women we are today, and so we take this time to thank each and every grownup out there who has gracefully put up with us over the years in teaching and raising us, especially our families.  

And it’s only right that I personally thank my own amazing mom and dad, two people who inspire me daily with their industrious spirits and their fierce dedication to loving others as themselves and being strong and firm in what they believe. 

And to my dad, the greatest man I knew: Though you went with the Lord nearly 10 years ago and could not physically be here with us today, I dedicate this day to your memory. May your legacy of ceaseless compassion, sound integrity and sincere devotion live on through each one of us. 

Friends, though it’s true we haven’t always gotten along with our parents, do me a favor and personally thank them later today—and every day—for their impact, for the lessons they taught us over time continue to shape who we are and the legacy we’re bound to leave behind. 

And also thank your teachers, coaches and mentors outside the home, all of whom dedicated their lives to getting you to this point. Although our parents and teachers nurtured us all our lives, it’s now our turn to follow their example, leaving behind our sheltered imaginations in pursuit of real-world opportunity. 

Though one chapter is ending, the story of our lives is still being written. As we go on to college, the work force, the military or wherever life takes us, anticipate challenges and failures. Life’s already given us its fair share of trials. But one thing I’ve learned is that temporary struggle only makes us stronger and more genuine as individuals.

In the end, we all have something to contribute to mankind. We all have the potential to change the world. Let nothing hold you back. Let no one discourage you. Let no one tear you away from your dreams. Get back up when the world knocks you down. 

For not only does this drive and resilience serve as a tribute to those who came before you, but also as a testament to the future generations who will one day look to you for guidance and motivation. And, most importantly, remember that in order for any of this to be possible, we must first learn to love one another. 

Respect one another. Encourage one another. God willed for us to live this way in accordance with each other. So embrace this lifestyle today for the sake of all people.

Let’s live for something bigger than ourselves. As Ben Okri tells us, “The most authentic thing about us is our capacity to create, to overcome, to endure, to transform, to love and to be greater than our suffering.” 

In the end, it’s not about any one of us. It’s about all of us together, making a difference for the greater good of mankind. I leave you with this challenge, Class of 2013: Are you ready to step up and fulfill your calling? Are you ready to change the world? Do you stand with me today for a better tomorrow?

Grossmont, these past four years have been a blast. Though I don’t want to see you go, it’s not forever. By making a difference wherever we end up, we stand united in our commitment to doing our part in helping make the world a better place. 

We all have a part to play, no matter who you are, no matter where you came from, no matter where you’re going, guaranteed. And that, Class of 2013, is the legacy we strive to leave. 

I wish you all the best in your lives from here on out. Though I know I’ll always remember Mr. Bradley’s Moments of Zen, Mr. Ginn’s Presidential Moments, Mr. Neill’s life lessons, Mr. Holcomb’s riddles, Mrs. Phillips’ sweet sarcasm, Mr. Ridgway’s epic BAM!s, and Mrs. Ginn’s cups and Test-ions, I think I’m going to remember you guys the most: my peers and classmates.

Thank you all, from the bottom of my heart, for changing my life for the better, and for giving me hope. For the last time, I proudly declare that it truly is great to be young and a Foothiller. 

But my time is up, so, without further ado, it’s time to accept our diplomas and move forward. Though this time of our lives will one day be nothing more than a distant memory and a collection of dusty photographs, remember this: Today, we are young. Today, we are the Class of 2013. Today, we are infinite. 

Let’s celebrate that today. Go forth boldly. Be strong and courageous. It’s our time now. Thank you for this amazing opportunity, and thank you for gathering with me today. God bless you all.