62 • GRADUATION 2020 • NEWTON COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL • THE MERIDIAN STAR
ANDREA CLEVELAND
Valedictorian
It is my honor to have been named valedictorian of
the Graduating Class of 2020. Like many of my fellow
graduates, my time spent here will forever hold the
fondest memories of my childhood. More than just
memories, Newton County High School has offered
us experiences. We are in the middle of possibly the
most prominent learning experience of our lives thus
far. Even though the lesson we are learning is hard, it
is an important one. Life is unpredictable. The future
is uncertain. To be successful, we will have to
adapt--roll with the punches.
In this small town, I have met people from all corners
of the world. People who have left their comfort zones
to take hold of new opportunities. I think we can all
learn something from their bravery. Most of you will
recall Kiersten Selman who was a part of our class
for twelve years. Her family has had a huge impact on
my life and the lives of many in our community. A year
ago, they were called to serve in a new way in a new
place...and they went. The circumstances were not
favorable, and the transition was not easy, but they
went. When you hear that call, go! Don’t hesitate.
Some chances are once in a lifetime.
A whole new future lies ahead of us. We will face
many trials and many problems, but because of the
lessons we have learned here, we feel that we can
face and solve these problems. We know it will not
be easy, but our education has taught us that there
is no failure except in no longer trying; there is no
defeat except from within, and there is no real impossible barrier except our own weakness of purpose. I encourage
you, my fellow graduates, to seek continuously for your purpose in this life, and once you find it, pursue it adamantly.
However, I charge you: be selfless in this pursuit. Offer a helping hand to a neighbor, have compassion for those less
fortunate than you, and be kind in your words and actions whenever possible. The people graduating here tonight hold
capabilities to do wonderful things. Please, share those capabilities with the world. There are too many people who
don’t. Your education and your individuality are two of the few things that can never be taken away from you. Take every
chance you get to broaden your horizons: travel, read, observe. Learn something new everyday. Take time to enjoy the
things that make your life abundant. Resist the pressure to conform. Never forget where you’ve been, and never look
away from where you’re going. Hold on tight to the truth, and remember the golden rule. I will always hold the Class of
2020 near to my heart, and I hope all of you are blessed in your ventures.
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