[alyasa]

High school is like the training
wheels for the bicycle of real
life. It is a time for young people
to explore different fields of
interest and to hopefully grow from
their experiences.
After all, that which we learn from
our mistakes can be as valuable as
what we learn from our textbooks,
and often we can turn the negative
experiences that are common to all
high-schoolers into positive steps
toward personal growth and
achievement. In coming to terms
with my own personal setback, which
I'm sure you've all heard about,
I've been able to learn a lot about
myself. I've learned for one thing
that I don't need to rely on drugs
and alcohol
(APPLAUSE)
and that I'm very lucky-that more
people besides Carrie and myself
weren't hurt in the accident; I've
learned that I'm blessed with
wonderful parents, teachers and
above all the best classmates in
the world -- I love each and every
one of you guys!!
(APPLAUSE)
and I've learned that to get
through life's obstacles you need
faith, hope and, most of all, a
sense of humor.