George Saunders's Convocation Speech, Syracuse University, 2013

I haven't read any speeches in a while, and came across this yesterday. Now, I still haven't gotten to actually reading any of Saunders's work (see: http://wingedbywords.blogspot.com/2013/01/feeling-known.html), but I will, one of these days.

And meanwhile, I am so inspired and moved by this speech he gave at Syracuse University earlier this year. Especially this one bit (well, okay, it's more than a bit):

"Do all the other things, the ambitious things – travel, get rich, get famous, innovate, lead, fall in love, make and lose fortunes, swim naked in wild jungle rivers (after first having it tested for monkey poop) – but as you do, to the extent that you can, err in the direction of kindness.  Do those things that incline you toward the big questions, and avoid the things that would reduce you and make you trivial.  That luminous part of you that exists beyond personality – your soul, if you will – is as bright and shining as any that has ever been.  Bright as Shakespeare’s, bright as Gandhi’s, bright as Mother Theresa’s.  Clear away everything that keeps you separate from this secret luminous place.  Believe it exists, come to know it better, nurture it, share its fruits tirelessly."
-George Saunders

It's pretty simple stuff, when it comes down to it: doing things "that incline you toward the big questions," avoiding "the things that would reduce you and make you trivial." Simple and difficult, all at once. But start today. Whatever it is. Take a moment and look up at the night sky. Or close your eyes and breathe and breathe, and just breathe. Read. Listen to music. Make music. Be kind. 

And remember, "That luminous part of you that exists beyond personality – your soul, if you will – is as bright and shining as any that has ever been.  Bright as Shakespeare’s, bright as Gandhi’s, bright as Mother Theresa’s.  Clear away everything that keeps you separate from this secret luminous place."

To being kind. To nurturing that "luminous part of you." 




For the full text: http://6thfloor.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/07/31/george-saunderss-advice-to-graduates/?src=me