Class of 2020!

My niece and nephew graduated from college and high school, respectively, this May. They were both disappointed to miss their real graduations, so we had our own ceremony. Madeleine made a program, we set up lawn chairs, we played the graduation song. My father-in-law, their grandfather, was the Master of Ceremonies, complete with graduation cap and gown. I was introduced as the “Dean of Activities” and gave this commencement speech. We followed up with a cocktail reception and special dinner. While it wasn’t what our graduates expected, it was better than nothing. Here’s the speech:

Here we are – 2020.  What a cool and memorable year to graduate! 

Usually when we think of “2020” we think of one of two things 1) “2020 hindsight,” or 2) “2020 vision.”  While both of these phrases relate to sight, they’re completely different.  “2020 hindsight” refers to reflection - maybe even an insight you gained based on an experience you had - and it implies that you will use the benefit of hindsight to perhaps make different choice, presumably a better choice, in the future. When we speak of “2020 vision,” we think not only of a literal quality – perfect eyesight – but more importantly, a figurative quality of being smart or perceptive or prepared. 

As it turns out, 2020 as a year, has turned into something very different than what anyone was predicting.  What has always been a term associated with experience and foresight, is now more associated with this strange and scary “Year 2020,” which has frankly underperformed as far as years go.

Graduates, we know you’ve been disappointed.  This is not what you expected.  You missed out on very special events – graduations ceremonies, prom, formals, spending time with your friends before heading off to college or to work in the real world.  These are REAL disappointments, ones that the whole world feels for you. 

But, as you know, the events of your last semester don’t define the experiences you had over the past 4 years.  Think about all the friends you have made, all the things you’ve achieved and how you’ve grown up and changed since you were a freshman.  Joey turned 18 became an adult, started a business, got accepted to his dream school.   Susie became independent, joined a sorority, met lifelong friends, got a great job.  Let’s reflect on all your amazing experiences and achievements over the past four years, not just on the memories you didn’t get to make in the final stretch.  

I assure you, 2020 is really only a blip on your life screen. 

Your graduation is not documented by a fleeting moment walking across a stage in an auditorium to receive a replica of a diploma from someone you don’t really know.  Your graduation will be remembered because it happened during a time of worldwide reflection and planning for the future.  I guarantee you that you will remember the significance of your graduation more so than any of us who graduated in any other year.  You will always have the unique distinction of being a member of the Class of 2020. 

And how appropriate!  “2020” – a term that simultaneously represents a time to reflect on the past, perhaps make changes for the future, AND to look ahead with perfect vision. 

I know I speak for all the people here today who support you and love you in saying, you are prepared.  Now go, do, be, continue to make the world proud of the Class of 2020.  Congratulations!!!