I RWEALLY need help with this Speech. I need an Opening Quote or Short Poem... Pls Help Me Out.?

Question

Ok, below is a copy of my speech for my baccalaureate service. I need an opening quote or a short poem to add a little drama. Any suggestions? 10 pts for genuine help

Good Morning, I am glad to be here sharing this important and celebratory time with you all. We have all accomplished a great deal and it's sometimes hard to believe college has come to an end.
I have come to believe in purpose and, that every situation God puts us in, is for a purpose. I know now that Baldwin’s was no mere coincidence. I have learnt to stand tall, walk with my shoulders pulled back, and speak un-intimidated before a gathering. I am sure none of you believe that this person standing before you today, was a timid fragile thing once upon a time.

A lot of you do not know this, but I come from a science background; so for me this Commerce journey has been unbelievably astounding.
I remember that humid July morning I walked into the Baldwin Campus. I remember trying to empty myself of the nervousness I felt. I was completely intimidated.

Why had I come to college? Well, it seemed like a good idea at the time. I had no specific goal. I vaguely wanted to finish my three-year degree, but I was never sure if I had what it took to be in college.

There is one thing among many that I will take with me from Baldwin’s. It is the memories of the smiling faces in the hallways of my teachers, the helpers and my friends.
I cannot forget the faces of the people who have looked at me and ‘seen me’.
I remember, three years ago, feeling invisible. That was fine with me then. It provided a sense of comfort, maybe of not having to be responsible. I was accountable only to myself both in the classroom and out. Surrendering that invisibility has been a crucial part of my education at Baldwin’s, and I couldn’t have done it alone. I was helped through, pulled through sometimes, by people who cared for me.

Summing up three years of experience in five minutes is impossible. Every day has made me a wiser person, each task, a humbler learner. I extend my gratitude, not only to Baldwin’s – the institution, but also to all those teachers and students who are a part of Baldwin’s.

My Dad couldn’t make it here today, but I know I just HAVE to mention him. He is the reason I am here today. And Mum, thank you for coming. I’m sorry for the madness I put you through sometimes. I know I don’t say it that often, but I love you very much.

Listen carefully, Batch of ‘07, The sounds you hear today will last a lifetime. Savor them and save them in your hearts, for they are priceless. Each whisper, each tick of the clock is a reminder of something you have gained while here at Baldwin’s. Pay attention, so that when you hear them later in life you will remember. Good luck my friends. God bless you.

Answer 1

I feel this cud help :-

U may start like this after ur 1st para.....
"As somebody has truly said, 'We meet to make memories & separate to preserve them...' ".
And then go on to read ur further lines.

Thanks,
Dhruv

Answer 2

"Happiness is that state of consciousness which proceeds from the achievement of one's values."
-- Ayn Rand

"My mother drew a distinction between achievement and success. She said that 'achievement is the knowledge that you have studied and worked hard and done the best that is in you. Success is being praised by others, and that's nice, too, but not as important or satisfying. Always aim for achievement and forget about success.'"
-- Helen Hayes

"The greatest achievement of the human spirit is to live up to one's opportunities and make the most of one's resources."
-- Vauvenargues

"Trust yourself. Create the kind of self that you will be happy to live with all your life. Make the most of yourself by fanning the tiny, inner sparks of possibility into flames of achievement."
-- Foster C. McClellan

"Let us think of education as the means of developing our greatest abilities, because in each of us there is a private hope and dream which, fulfilled, can be translated into benefit for everyone and greater strength for our nation."
-- John F. Kennedy

"Education is the best provision for the journey to old age."
-- Aristotle

Answer 3

"My Good friends, There's a religious song that goes,
'Let the words of our mouths and the meditations of our hearts be acceptable in Thy sight here tonight'...
Well, Ladies and Gentlemen ['Good folks', if you are worried about political correctness], that's how I feel this morning!"

Answer 4

Unto whom much is given, much is required.

Answer 5

Hail ______..Hail your name & with all of you who are present in this momentous occassion, my warmest greetings....

Answer 6

religion is the bane of all society