Krista Brutman, Lynnwood High School Valedictorian
Hello and welcome. My name is Krista Brutman, and by some miracle, I have ended my high school career as the Class of 2017 Valedictorian. Besides comedic purposes, I use the word miracle to describe my ascent to the top because I was never a perfect student, and thus by societal standards today, I should not be in this position. Not to disrespect the educational institution and its staff that I stand before today, but I believe that perfection is far too often denoted as the ultimate way to achieve in the schooling system. We, as a society, overlook so many glorious qualities, so many ways to reach goals, and instead focus on making sure the details are concrete before we leap. But maybe, just maybe, we have it all wrong. I come before you with a different thesis; that it is better to be brave than perfect.
In almost every story from the beginning of time, the hero has been courageous. They push forth in the face of adversity, whether it be fighting a dragon for the love of a princess or struggling against an oppressive government. For example, let’s briefly examine Homer’s epic, the Odyssey. Odysseus the war hero was of course intelligent, enduring, and strong. But his failures were also vast. He was captured by the terrible Cyclops and caught by the Siren’s tempting song. Yet, when the Gods forced him down, he pushed back. He braved on to Ithaca for 10 entire years, eventually finding his way home. I urge all here before me to remember the story of Odysseus, remember his perils and his triumphs. Remember that despite failures he found his way and completed one of the greatest adventures known to man. Be like Odysseus, complete the Odyssey of your own life.
Now, if you’re not into literary allusions, I can completely relate. Years of English have worn down my tolerance of their mention. So maybe let’s go to a more relatable pop culture example. In the famous words of the rapper named Kanye West, “I didn’t want to play it boring and safe”. Of course, the adults in this stadium probably think I’m insane for using Kanye as a role model at this moment, and I agree. Kanye has made mistakes; that’s exactly my point. He made mistakes but he still made it. So, Class of 2017, if literary allusions are not your style, remember instead that Kanye started near the bottom, made mistakes, but never backed down from the risks he would need to take to become an icon.
I know with entire certainty that all of us graduating today have overcome great odds. We have been the heros of our own stories thus far. However, I also know that most definitely none of us have made it to this point as perfect human beings. Whether it as small as a bad grade on a quiz or something more major, imperfections scar us. Our mistakes mark us and set us back, but never believe that they define who we are. Class of 2017, you are imperfect but you are also courageous. Step into the world believing that you are worth more than your wrongs, and believe the same of others. We all fall from grace at one point or another, but it is important to rise bravely and help others do the same. Encourage those in whatever community you are about to delve into, and you will not be forgotten.
To conclude my time orating to the best Class ever to graduate from Lynnwood High School, I’d like to thank those who personally inspired me to be brave. Thank you to my mom, my dad, Mr. Chan, Mrs. Torres, Mr. Trost, Mr. Nat Wilson, and my friends, who are all here with us today. You have given me the strength and the knowledge to make it to this point. And, as a speaker for the Class, thank you to all the other teachers and parents who brought forth this next generation of leaders. To the Class of 2017, thank you for inspiring me personally with your stories; I never fail to be amazed by you. I know that you will go on to face more adversity like heros of the past. I know that you will stand for what you believe is righteous. I know that your abilities will see you through the tempest. And, most of all, I hope that once you become successful, you can turn back to all those who have told you that you couldn’t and say, in the words of our 45th president Donald J. Trump, “Sorry haters and losers”. Remember who you are, remember to serve the communities you are a part of, and remember to be daring. Class of 2017, conquer the world. Thank you.
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