ππ° π°πΆπ³ π₯π¦π’π³ πππ’π΄π΄ π°π§ 2021β¦
The annual Valedictory Speech – which was this year delivered by Union High School’s outgoing Head Boy, Kyle-Luke du Preez – was a goodbye speech, but also a βLook at what weβve doneβ moment.
And what our Class of 2021 have done has been nothing short of miraculous.
From the start of their Grade 11 year, to the end of their Grade 12 year, their schooling experience was masked and distanced, tracked and tested, and always a small coronavirus outbreak away from everyone being sent home.
So, yes, π·π’ππ¦ π₯πͺπ€π¦π³π¦ to all that. But also . . . look at what theyβve done.
As uncertainty swirled around them, they stayed focused. They adapted their learning. They finished their assignments. They passed their tests. They supported one another. They gutted and gritted it out even when the end seemed out of reach.
Off into the future you go. Your minds filled with academic knowledge eager to acquire more and share your skills with others. Your hearts brimming with compassion, patience, understanding, kindness, humility and faith.
We are sad to say goodbye but grateful that our paths have crossed and hopeful for what you will become. Strive to bring joy and comfort to those you meet on your journey through life because when you serve and uplift others⦠you will find contentment and joy.
Matrics, your education is only beginning.
Live in this world with an open heart to embrace others with compassion; live in this world with an open mind willing to learn new things; live in this world to end oppression; live in this world with a grateful heart and live in this world with open eyes to see the splendours of God’s creation.
