As we move the tassel aside, we turn the pages of history…

The dictionary defines success as…

The future is so bright…

Follow your passion, don’t be afraid of failure, this is the first day of the rest of your life.

Is it just me, or do most commencement speeches at high school graduations sound like your aunt’s Facebook feed?

They also seem a little inappropriate during a pandemic, as most teens in America tune in for virtual graduation ceremonies. There’s nothing as prestigious as hearing your name called, while sitting in your pyjamas, cradling a bowl of cereal in your lap.

Despite this, there have been a few genuinely inspirational keynote speakers, like Meghan Duchess of Sussex, who used her speech at Immaculate Heart in Los Angeles to draw attention to the George Floyd protests.

Beyoncé also did one hell of a job, but we didn’t expect anything less. She’s Beyoncé.

Then there’s this, which is possibly the best commencement speech of all time: The Simpsons’ contribution to the live-streamed YouTube Originals event, ‘Dear Class of 2020’.

Take it away, Simpson family:

It might not be classically inspirational, but at least it’s honest.

Now go off, and live your dreams.

I believe in you.

[source:mashable]