How to Finish High School | Blake Fly | TEDxSacredHeartCHS

Summary

In this engaging talk, the speaker reflects on the lessons learned from high school through the metaphor of a piece of cardboard. They share their personal journey as a grocery clerk after graduation, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging the people who influenced their lives. By encouraging students to write thank-you cards to teachers, friends, family, and even themselves, the speaker highlights the significance of recognizing both achievements and relationships before graduating. This reflection not only deepens connections but also enriches the understanding of one's personal journey through high school.

Takeaways

• 😀 Reflecting on high school experiences can deepen appreciation for personal growth.
• 🎓 Acknowledging significant relationships during high school enhances emotional connections.
• 📜 Writing thank-you letters to influential figures is a powerful way to express gratitude.
• 📅 It's important to remember both the beginning and the end of the high school journey.
• 🚶‍♂️ High school is not just about achieving a diploma; it's about the journey and experiences along the way.
• 🤝 Friends and family should be recognized for their support during the high school years.
• ✍️ Taking the time to write down memories can lead to valuable self-discovery and reflection.
• 🏆 Everyone's high school journey is unique, filled with individual stories and lessons.
• 💪 Acknowledging one's own efforts and achievements is crucial in the graduation process.
• 💬 Engaging in open conversations about experiences fosters deeper relationships with family and friends.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the speaker's message?

The main purpose of the speaker's message is to highlight the importance of reflection and gratitude during the transition from high school to adulthood, encouraging students to acknowledge the people who have impacted their lives.

How did the speaker use cardboard in their reflection process?

The speaker used two pieces of cardboard: one for jotting down tasks for their job and another for recording memories and reflections about their high school experience, which helped them craft their graduation speech.

What role did the speaker's mentor play in their high school experience?

The speaker's mentor, Lori Lei, assigned them the task of creating a graduation speech, which became a catalyst for reflection on their high school journey.

What are the four thank-you cards the speaker suggests students write?

The speaker suggests writing thank-you cards to teachers, friends, family, and oneself to express appreciation for their contributions during the high school experience.

Why is it important to thank teachers, according to the speaker?

It's important to thank teachers because they play a significant role in helping students achieve their grades and navigate their high school journey, and their impact often extends beyond the classroom.

How does the speaker describe the emotional experience of graduating students?

The speaker describes graduating students as experiencing a mix of nerves, stress, anxiety, and excitement, capturing the complex emotions tied to this significant life transition.

What does the speaker mean by 'acknowledging the beginning' when discussing diplomas?

Acknowledging the beginning means recognizing the start of the high school journey alongside the graduation day, highlighting that both the experiences leading up to graduation and the graduation itself are important.

What is the significance of writing letters to family members?

Writing letters to family members allows students to express their feelings and gratitude, which can lead to deeper and more meaningful conversations, enhancing relationships before moving on to the next phase of life.

How does the speaker suggest students can approach their final year of high school differently?

The speaker suggests that instead of rushing through their final year with a focus solely on work, students should balance their efforts with moments of reflection and appreciation for their experiences and relationships.

What overarching message does the speaker want to convey about the high school experience?

The overarching message is that high school is not just about achieving academic success but also about building relationships, personal growth, and appreciating the journey as a whole before graduation.