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I hope you will carry the core of your Manchester education with you.
First, deal directly with problems in your relationships and in your work. Your Manchester experience has taught you alternatives to verbal attacks and physical violence. Your classes and friendships have taught you ways to be honest and respectful. You’ve seen great professors who do not agree with one another but who respect one another. Difficulties are inevitable in life. Choose the high road of honesty, directness, and respect.
Second, treat the earth well. A Kenyan proverb says: “The earth was not given to you by your parents. It is loaned to you by your children.” To care for the earth does not require a complete change in your life – but it requires small decisions every day. Drive less and walk more. Use less hot water. Don’t litter. If just one person does these things, it won’t make much difference. But if we ALL do it, the impact will be immense. Start today.
Third, pass on the gifts you have been given. You worked hard to graduate, but you didn’t do it alone. Your families supported you. Your professors challenged you. The College gave you scholarships. Sometime in the next year, even when your earnings are small, I hope you each will donate something to Manchester College to help a student who follows you. People did that for you.
You are women and men of ability and conviction, and we are proud of you.
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