Graduation day at last draws near and we stand now on the threshold of new experiences. We shall find, no doubt, that these experiences differ greatly from those of our school days. It is how we meet them that will determine our value not only to ourselves but also to the world.
We have looked forward to this day above all others, but on glancing back over the years we begin to realize that we are leaving something behind. All our memories can not be put into words, the intangible ones are perhaps the most precious, but the tangible ones such as the June Exams will, undoubtedly, be remembered often in the years to come. Our greatest loss will be when friends of our school years must part as each of us goes forward to shape his own life. These friends are not actually lost, for a friendship once made cannot be broken by distance, no more than can the pleasant memories of school days be forgotten.
To the teachers I should like to express our sincere gratitude.
There is no use saying we have always agreed - we haven't - yet I think these disagreements have only increased our mutual respect, in that they have led the way to a better understanding. Above all I should like to thank you for the assistance you have given us in our own interests: sports, hobbies and social activities. You have prepared us well to meet the tasks of the future, and the time has now come for us to make use of that preparation and prove ourselves worthy of the time and trouble so spent.
No matter what field of endeavour we wish to explore, this province can supply the opportunity. With its fish-laden waters, thickly forested hillsides, mountains agleam with ore, rich agricultural lands, rapidly growing industry and brisk commerce there is a place for us all. With this richness of opportunity comes on equal amount of responsibility. A responsibility which remains with us, to direct our energy and ability to further the development and increase the richness of our country.
We have, until now, been able to progress on the efforts of others, chiefly our parents. It is from this point forward that our own efforts and natural abilities will come to the forefront in the shaping of our lives. We must, to justify our existence, leave a better world than the one we now enter, to those who will gather in years to come for the some purpose that we are assembled here tonight.
In conclusion, I should like to leave the thought with you that upon the success or failure of the graduating classes in all countries rests the responsibility for the world of the future.
