For those who couldn't be there, and for those who want to nit pick

I just graduated, and had the honour of being Class Valedictorian, not to mention the other 6 awards, and had the distinction of giving my Valedictory address at the end of the ceremony. As the title suggests, I'm posting a transcript of what I said below, so enjoy it visually even if you already heard it.

(And thank you for the applause, it really made me feel good.)

[I'm afraid my address won't be quite as lengthy as the other speakers we've had tonight, much to the relief of my fellow graduates...]

"From the moment I was informed that I would be receiving this honour I racked my brain for the right things to say, the right words to make this address timeless and unforgettable. What I came up with was the following:
“I would like to begin by congratulating all the graduates who have made it here today, and thanking all the teachers, parents and guardians alike for making it all possible.”
That being all I had and the ceremony closing in, I nearly begged the administration to reconsider their choice for Valedictorian.
After calming myself down before panic forced me to do something stupid, however, I began to wonder what exactly high school meant to me. I wish I could stand here and say that I loved my time in Marymount, but that would be a bold-faced lie. Although, none of us could deny that we had some good times.
The past five years have been a time of change, an experience like none other. High school was a new chapter, a missed chance, a time for fun, new friends, a shoulder to lean on, puppy love, laughs shared, and tears shed over things that adults would never understand. It was learning to act, to play, to fall, and to get back up again. It was great, it was tiring, it’s come and gone, and we all go on.
Not too long ago I took the opportunity to revisit my alma mater; I walked the halls, met with some old teachers and generally observed those who are now mere children in my eyes. We have always been told that children are our future, and let me tell you, what I saw that day gave me an appreciation for the sheer terror that our parents and teachers must have felt every time that thought had crossed their minds. But over the past five years we have grown, we have changed in more ways than one; we have blossomed into the young adults that sit proudly before me. So don’t worry, we are getting smarter.

I stand here face to face with someone that I used to know, a friend, a colleague or a former classmate. Looking back upon my past I have no regrets, and I am proud of who I am, as should you all. You have all achieved so much up to now, you have been yourselves and that is more than anyone could have asked.
Congratulations once again, but be mindful, for the greatest challenges, and the greatest rewards lie yet ahead. There is just one thing I would like to leave you all with, so hear me now before you go on into the world tonight.
Life is but a play, we are all actors in our own way, but you should ask yourselves; when that final curtain draws shut, how do you want your performance to be remembered?
I implore you, make the best of your lives for nothing is coming to an end tonight, it is only just beginning. Be yourselves and good luck.

Thank you."

Yes, thank you all and congratulations once again.