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    You Are Not Special (10.14.2024)

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    You Are Not Special (10.14.2024)

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    kelvindgz
    58 views3 pages

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    Copyright:

    © All Rights Reserved
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    Download as docx, pdf, or txt
    58 views3 pages

    You Are Not Special (10.14.2024)

    Uploaded by

    kelvindgz

    Copyright:

    © All Rights Reserved
    Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online from Scribd
    Download as docx, pdf, or txt
    You are on page 1of 3

    “You Are Not Special” by David McCullough Jr

    For most students, graduating from high school can be a major milestone, yet what follows holds

    the greatest significance. A deep understanding about the importance of knowledge is vital for

    any successful individual, and David McCullough knows how to convey this message during his

    2012 commencement speech at Wellesley High School. By blending humorous comparisons and

    profound, yet easy-to-understand statements, he delivers a powerful message that encourages the

    young audience to be more mindful of the importance of constant learning, emphasizing how it

    can shape not only the future of an individual, but also of all humanity.

    The notions of accomplishment currently held by society are far more extensive than what can be

    perceived. For most individuals, economic success is the driving force that directs their minds

    towards their so-called goals, and while stability and security are essential for any person, the

    problem arises when one’s commitment to achievement is based solely on selfishness, without

    taking into consideration the impact that our legacy may leave behind for future generations.

    This concept is also explained by McCullough when he mentions the relevance of the actions

    taken by those who came before him, emphasizing how their desire for changing their then-

    present circumstances created a major shift in history, providing us with the privileges that we

    can all enjoy today. He exposes the importance of creating a conscious mindset regarding these

    issues, and how we should make the most of our time by enriching our minds with knowledge.

    McCullough refers to the founding fathers as perfect examples, emphasizing how their

    memorable dedication to secure our right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness was only
    “You Are Not Special” by David McCullough Jr

    possible due to their commitment to this achievement. Furthermore, he tries to create a sense of

    awareness in the graduates about how their own willingness to make a difference in society can

    have a significant impact as well. One of the most important aspects of his statements is his own

    perception of knowledge; how it is vital that the audience members proactively invest their time

    in learning, not only as a feeling of accomplishment, but also as he describes it: “a nourishing

    staple of life.”

    While it is true that “the fulfilled life is a consequence,” the problem lies in the erroneous

    misconception that fulfillment is merely the economic achievements obtained in this short-lived

    life. For instance, in our present world, the accomplishments of having a stable life, a profitable

    job, and good health tend to be perceived as the most important accomplishments that anyone

    can obtain. While these are indeed important, the fact that we rarely consider leaving a legacy

    that transcends the economic standards currently in place after we are no longer present is

    disturbing, to say the least.

    Think about those who came before us: what if the individuals who were responsible for our

    freedom had been more concerned about their economic well-being than with the future of this

    country? Moreover, what if they had decided not to lay the foundation of what are considered the

    pillars of our constitution, or if they had never upheld these well-defined concepts in their minds,

    where would we be today? If doctors decided to pursue only specialized areas in the medical

    field, where the most economic profit can be earned, what would happen to patients who need

    medical assistance with other health issues? If we choose to do things in life based on profit only,
    “You Are Not Special” by David McCullough Jr

    and not also on the substantial meaning of making a difference, what would this mean to those

    who will be here after us?

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