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Graduation at Robinson Township Christian School is always a highlight of the year. Each of our graduates are given time at commencement to say a few words. We thought we would share what they said...

 

Emotions are already running high tonight, so I am glad to be the first one speaking 

First, I would like to say how glad I am that I came to this school. RTCS is a place that I will always think of fondly. It's hard to believe that it was only six years ago that I started coming here. At that time, I was reluctant to switch to a different school. I came here in my seventh-grade year, so it was already a huge transition for me. I wanted to stay with my friends from my old school. But I'm thankful for my parent's insistence.

At first, I struggled a lot.

For one, I didn't know anyone, and back then, I was even worse at talking to new people than I am now. There was also the issue of soccer being co-ed. Tall or not, I was a seventh-grade girl. In short, anytime I was on the field, I felt absolutely terrified. I mean, back then, some of the 12th graders looked like college kids to me. But I grew in my confidence, mostly thanks to the encouragement and trust of a fellow teammate, and Mrs. Heather Smith, who was the head coach at that time. And from there, I grew, gaining more confidence and skills every season. 

Another minor struggle in my first year here was that I kept joining the 8th graders for class. Some of those people from that class who are in the audience tonight probably remember it happening several times. Just imagine 7th grade me, happily sitting in class, only to be told that I was in the wrong room. I'm sorry for that, Mr. Stark. While it was probably just a minor annoyance for you, for me it was the cause of many nightmares. 

To Ms. Au, I'm sorry for arriving late to transition math with the same lame excuse every time. But from what I clearly remember, you both were patient and understanding whenever it happened, and I really appreciate that. 

And through all these struggles, I gained skills that will help me throughout life. I also witnessed first-hand the kindness and humility that is abundant in our school. 

But in general, I want to thank all my teachers. The teachers at RTCS do so much for their students. They are a support system in the student’s Christian walk with the Lord. They've taught me a lot, and have made me a better student. I am grateful to them for everything they've done, even for giving me homework over the years, or taking me out of my comfort zone in class. I needed both. Thank you, student body, especially my fellow seniors, for being great. I'm going to miss you...and hanging out in the senior room during study halls. I know that you are capable of doing great things and I wish you much luck. 

To the students we are leaving behind, I urge you to continue to work hard, and if you aren't working hard yet, please, let's make a start. 

I would also like to thank my parents for sending me to RTCS, a school where I can be open about my faith. You both are my inspiration. Mom, thank for you for taking care of me, and doing all you can to give me a good life. You are such a strong person, and have influenced me so much. Dad, thank you for supporting me and believing in me when I didn't believe in myself. And also, for helping me become the female Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. Other people do call me that from time to time, mostly Ruby and Max, and I will always embrace it. Because Dwayne Johnson is pretty awesome. But still not as awesome as my parents. You are so special to me, and I thank God that I have you in my life. 

Thanking God is something I can't do enough of. His goodness to me is something that I can't understand. Even when I struggle in life, I know that he's still there, and the fact that I can go to him in prayer, and find comfort in his word and presence is such a blessing. He has a future already made for me, my fellow seniors, and everyone else too. And I can't wait for his plan to unfold. On that note, I will end with reading psalm 38:4. "Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him." I hope we can keep this word in mind as we continue on with our lives, and I hope you all have a great night! Thank you.