At Number 5 of our best inspirational Graduation speeches, we have David McCullough’s. McCullough is a High School Teacher and gives his address at the Wellesley High School Class of 2012.

Essentially, in this speech McCullough challenges graduates not to think of themselves as being any more special than all the other graduates.

He opines that sometimes complements condition us into lazy thinking and the misconception that we shall always have what we want on a silver platter just because we are ‘already good or smart enough.

He says, “Yes, you’ve been pampered, cosseted, doted upon, helmeted, bubble-wrapped.  Yes, capable adults with other things to do have held you, kissed you, fed you, wiped your mouth, wiped your bottom, trained you, taught you, tutored you, coached you, listened to you, counseled you, encouraged you, consoled you and encouraged you again.

You’ve been nudged, cajoled, wheedled and implored.  You’ve been feted and fawned over and called sweetie pie.  Yes, you have.  And, certainly, we’ve been to your games, your plays, your recitals, your science fairs.  Absolutely, smiles ignite when you walk into a room, and hundreds gasp with delight at your every tweet…And now you’ve conquered high school (university)… and, indisputably, here we all have gathered for you, the pride and joy of this fine community, the first to emerge from that magnificent new building…But do not get the idea you’re anything special.  Because you’re not.”

Read his full speech here

In conclusion allow us leave you with this quote from David McCullough’s speech;

“From this day forward… truly… in sickness and in health, through financial fiascos, through midlife crises and passably attractive sales reps at trade shows, through diminishing tolerance for annoyingness, through every difference, irreconcilable and otherwise, you will stay forever graduated from high school (university), you and your diploma (degree) as one, ‘til death do you part”.

Also See More motivational quotes form other great people.

Inspirational Graduation speeches: Never wait for stuff to happen but go out and make stuff to happen.

Inspirational Graduation Speeches: The measure of success is what you think about what you’ve done.

  Career Guidance, David McCullough, Graduation Speeches, Inspirational Graduation Speeches, Motivational Speeches