The commencement ceremony is aptly named. Whereas a graduation ceremony is a sort of ending, commencement denotes a beginning. Both expressions are used interchangeably for the same event, however, each has a very specific point of view from which to interpret that event.
The popular expression, "When one door closes, another door opens" is attributed to Helen Keller, author, activist, and the first deaf/blind person to earn an B.A. degree.
The full quote is:
“When one door of happiness closes, another opens; but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one which has been opened for us.”
The concept of graduation revolves around this idea that after you finish one thing, another thing comes along.
The concept of commencement is a bit different though. It demands a proactive approach to the next step. Albert Einstein said, "Life is like riding a bicycle - in order to keep your balance, you must keep moving." This is commencement.
I have been asked to deliver the commencement speech at my May 16 graduation ceremony for my A.A. degree. It is an honor and it will be a commencement speech.
I will post it here when I am finished.
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