‘Remember Our Roots’: Cinnaminson Valedictorian

Nirali Patel, Cinnaminson High School Class of 2013 valedictorian, delivered this valedictorian speech at graduation Thursday:            

Good evening Dr. Illuzi, Mrs. Llewellyn, faculty and staff.

Today, we, the Class of 2013, are entering a new phase in our lives where no one will stop us from reaching for the stars, taking risks, and pursuing our dreams. Some of us have our lives planned out, others are going where the wind takes them, but regardless of what we decide to do, there is a world of opportunity that awaits us.

However, no matter how far we go in life, we must look back to see how far we have come and remember those who have led, inspired and supported us in our every decision.

As we prepare to meet new people, partake in new experiences, and open the next chapter in our lives, we need to take a moment and remember all the priceless experiences we have had and all the memories that unite us as the Class of 2013. No matter how famous, wealthy, or successful we may become, we should remember our roots because our past is what builds our future.

When I remember my roots, I think about my parents and how they immigrated to America and had to work hard to build their happiness and success. Nothing was handed to them as they made a fresh start surrounded by new people and a different culture, but with their dedication towards achieving their goals, they managed to create a world of happiness for themselves and their children.

They gave me the power to dream and the ability to follow my dreams. They are my inspiration whenever I think about achieving anything. Ever since I was little, they have stressed the value of education and encouraged me to set goals, pursue them, and make use of my talents.

Throughout school, I followed their advice, and based on their experiences, I knew that nothing would be handed to me and if I wanted to become something in life, I would have to work hard and keep my goals in mind. Thanks to their positive influence, I was able to achieve something in high school, and I will keep their advice in mind as I enter college and make a fresh start.

In school, my success came through academics; however, everyone here has a different talent or passion. Some of us have achieved success through sports, others through drama, and others through art and music.

No matter what talent we have, it is a gift that we should make an advantage of in life and share with others. We should always cultivate our talents and make them our success.

Dreaming about success and actually achieving it are two completely different ideas. No stone should be left unturned when we pursue our dreams and goals. If doing so requires us to step out of our comfort zones or follow a completely different path than the one we have planned, then we should because success can be hidden anywhere, we just need to find it.

Our future is what we make of it and our dreams have no boundaries. If we follow the right path and set our minds and actions towards fulfilling our dreams, we will undoubtedly be blessed with bright futures. As we reflect upon our childhood and our years spent at the high school, we realize how many tasks we have accomplished and how many we left unaccomplished.

As we set out into the world as young adults, it is up to us to complete whatever we have left unfinished as well as weave and pursue new tasks and dreams. Most importantly, though, no matter how far we go in life, we should look back and reflect upon how far we have come and take a chance to enjoy our success.