Message from Mayor Madden: Graduation Season and Summer
Graduation is certainly among the positive and consistent highlights that we recognize for academic achievement of our children. In our crazy world of broken traditions, new social mores, activities and challenges, the single thing that never changes is the “ritual” of the culmination of the educational experience in a graduation ceremony. At any level, it represents a distinct new page in the legacy of each of us. With each chapter, we leave behind us a plethora of interactions and experiences with family, friends and others who have shaped our persona giving us knowledge and wisdom in preparation for that next chapter.
In my time as Mayor, I have enjoyed being a part of these ceremonies each year, reminiscing about my own experience, which I always cherish. Everybody knows that summer is really in full swing once graduation concludes. That is a time to unwind, relax and do things that could not be done time wise during the school year. I am including this, my last graduation speech, which I hope will inspire and motivate others to pursue their own legacy.
Middlesex High School Graduation, June 15, 2023
Welcome everybody. It is truly an honor standing here before you on such a memorable occasion. A special note of sincere gratitude goes out to the families, friends, teachers, aids, coaches and others in their unwavering support and encouragement for our graduates.
I remember in my High School years, I, like many, were caught up in the fathomless abyss of dreams. Vietnam was raging and my draft number was looming.
Today marks the start of a new exciting journey into adulthood, a time when you will be confronted with new experiences, challenges and decisions. There will be many obstacles and unknown byways along the way. At times it will be daunting, even terrifying, while other times, fulfilling and rewarding. Such is the great dichotomy of life.
Just remember, because of Covid, your graduating class, the class of 2023, has experienced the most difficult and demanding lifestyle change, never seen in over 100 years!
Yet, you have come through unscathed, better equipped and better prepared than ever before for the next journey. Recognize then, that you are the beacon to become the stewards of leadership whether from your vocation or advocation.
Along the way, make kindness, compassion, integrity and honesty your guiding spirit. Your moral compass will then always be pointing North. With these new experiences, embrace them all with passion and enthusiasm, but never extinguish the fire kindled within your heart.
As Art Linkletter said, “Things turn our best for the people who make the best out of the way things turn out.”
Thank you again for this honor,
Mayor John L. Madden