Cristi Marie Magracia’s Valedictory Address at Helix Charter High School

Cristi Marie Magracia delivered this speech June 2, 2011, at Helix Charter High School  commencement. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Andrew (Joann) Magracia of Lemon Grove.

Alone, one may achieve greatness, but together we live and breathe greatness. And so, on behalf of the class of 2011, I would like to thank those we share our lives with— for the blessings we received thus far and the blessings yet to come would not exist without these people.

First, for God, our parents and our families—for strengthening our values, for supporting our dreams and for loving us for who we are.

Let us also thank our teachers, our counselors, our coaches and our administrators—for empowering and encouraging us to pursue our passions.

Most of all, let us thank our classmates, our peers, our friends—for keeping us true to ourselves and for motivating us to always aim high.

With these people in our lives, our dreams of success become reality. Success lies in the mini victories we encounter on our paths, no matter where they may lead, and success rewards those who have touched that path, from our greatest supporters to those who kindly add another smile to our day.

By being the best we can be, we show others that their part in our lives means something and we give back to everyone that has helped us be who and where we are today.

Every challenge we face is another opportunity to succeed and show our appreciation for the hard work and support of those around us. That challenge may be a sports meet, an academic exam or a fragile friendship, but all deserve our best efforts because our best will get us to where we want to be. This day is the end of one of those challenges. All of us here have successfully completed the challenge that was high school.

We are the graduating class of 2011.

As we move on from this day, this Commencement Ceremony, each one of us will move toward his or her own purpose and path. We will have the opportunity to control our lives and follow our hearts. These hearts fuel us and lie at the center of the storm of people, technology, challenges and circumstances that surround our lives. Let us be open to the influences around us and open to change as it comes, but we will be the ones who drive ourselves forward.

In these unpredictable years to come, know that after this day, we will have the skills, knowledge, people and memories to rely on, to support us and to give us strength. Trust this core, these roots, we developed, and use the power we gain from it boldly and fearlessly.

Take this power, work with those around us and branch out as far as we possibly can down our chosen path, or paths, and choose to win and succeed. We have all proven our capabilities and strength of character by being here today, so put our future in good hands—our own.