JESSICA HAMMAL
Archbishop Macdonald Catholic High School
Although our final few months together were cut short, we must not dwell on the time that we have lost, but instead on what we can make of the time to come.
We have come a long way together, yet it is barely the beginning of a long road ahead. In the past three years, we have experienced an incredible journey; the memories and experiences that have culminated over the years, and the lessons we have learned and the mistakes we have made have truly made us who we are today. We must take the wisdom that we have amassed throughout the years and carry it into the future as we set off to unravel more of the beautiful story of life.
Throughout our lives, each of us has undoubtedly faced countless obstacles, whether they were deep personal struggles or the constant challenges that life tossed our way. Through facing these challenges, I truly hope you have come to appreciate that each step climbed is another step essential to your growth, another branch of your identity newly established. As you move on to face the life that awaits, look back at all that you have overcome to this day, and as you go on, remember that “without a struggle, there can be no progress.”
Many of these obstacles were overcome by appreciating the wisdom of those who guided us. Our parents, our teachers, our coaches, our instructors and conductors — every single one of them has contributed to our growth and inspired us along the way. Thank you to all those who have never failed to support and encourage us, truly. When they met us, we were uneasy sailors, nervous for the journey ahead. They have built us to be captains, and for that we are grateful.
Now, it is time for us to seize the possibilities of our generation, to take care of the world that has cared for us and watched us grow. But how? As young adults, you all know the irresistible pull towards life. The desire to spread your wings, to be everywhere and anywhere, accomplishing whatever it is that crosses your mind. The idea you wake up with one day, feeling invincible and telling yourself you can do anything. We have all woken into that day — feeling powerful.
Jessica Hammal is the 2020 valedictorian of Archbishop Macdonald Catholic High School High School. To read this speech in its entirety, please go to edmontonjournal.com/grad2020