Graduation Speech: I Am Stronger in the Lord :: Graduation Speech, Commencement Address

As I come to this place in my life I cannot help but think about Lincoln's Farewell Address at Springfield. In many ways it parallels my feelings in graduating from Gilmore Christian School. This is from President Lincoln's address written Feb. 11, 1861: "No one, not in my situation, can appreciate my feelings of sadness at this parting. To this place, and the kindness of these people, I owe everything. Here I have lived a quarter of a century, and have passed from young to an old man. Here my children have been born and one is buried. I now leave, not knowing when or whether ever I may return, with a task before me greater than that which rested upon Washington. Without the assistance of the Divine being whoever attended him, I cannot succeed. With that assistance, I cannot fail. Trusting in Him who can go with me, and remain with you, and be everywhere for good, let us confidently hope that all will be bell. To His care commending you, as I hope in your prayers you will commend me, I bid you an affectionate farewell." Being the only senior at ACS this year has proved to be difficult. It's had ups and downs. But in the end it was all worth it. ACS has given me something no other school would offer: their love and interested in me and my well-being. I am convinced, if they had not had faith in me, I would not be standing here in this place of honor. This past year, more than any before, I have grown closer to and stronger in the Lord. I would like to take this time to thank my family, friends and teachers: Mom, thank you for everything. You have done so much for me in the past 18 years of my life, I don't know where to start. Thank you for loving me through the thick and thin of it all. Mrs. Graber, thank you for not losing hope in me when you probably should have, and most of all thank you for believing in me. It helped so incredibly much. Mrs. Schultz, thank you for your council. Without it I wouldn't have made it past 11th grade. It has been an honor to have you as a teacher for the past three years. Mr. Murray, first of all, thank you for coming to teach here at Gilmore Christian School.