I would like to start off by thanking everyone for being here tonight. I was a little timid about speaking tonight, but after giving it some thought and being persuaded by my mom, I decided to accept the honor. I have learned many things in my fifteen years at this school, but one thing stands out. That is that God has a plan for everyone. After eighth grade, I was debating whether or not to stay at Forest Lake. I thought that if I went to a public school I would have more freedom. But as I was debating it, God began to speak to my heart. He made me realize that I would only have freedom from accountability. In other words, I would be accepted even in my wrong doings. God convinced me that I did not want to be in that situation. I cannot explain how glad I am that I chose to stay at Forest Lake. I have learned more about God and myself in the last four years than I could have ever imagined. Some people might say that I have been sheltered all these years, but being here has given me the foundation that I will need to go into the real world. .
As we stand before you here today, we are no longer the little, defenseless children we once were. We are now young adults that are prepared to go into the world as light bearer's of Christ. We do not know what God has planned for us down the road, but we need not worry about it. For we know that he works all things for the good of those who love him. .
I would like to finish by thanking all of my teachers I've had over the years. It is because of them that I am standing here today. I would like to thank the Schoellerman's because without them, there would be no Forest Lake. Finally, I would like to thank my mom and dad. Without their love, support, and guiding example I would never have gotten this far. Thank you and God bless. .