To the High School Class of ’21,
from C. Jenny Walbridge
I wrote this speech with my “Judgement Free Zone” pen.
It’s from some planet fitness thing. Now’s when
I’m comin’ from the future, makin’ a stand
Talkin’ of art and healthy in this land,
And sea emocean true. I notice that you grew
Now, we be needin’ your peace signs, too!
My love life, ‘cause I have dignity,
Depends on you having fun. Here, see,
This state, this world, where we be living,
You and me. I’m okay giving,
Though I need you motivated
To pay attention: you’re not dated.
We can care likewise for Earth
While I’m alive, and give you birth.
Lemme just share a couple things
I found out—they might give you wings!
From an artist these words coming,
Who studied peoples, not be dumbing,
Learning all about the others
In the world, our sisters, brothers.
My life is performance art…
Is yours, too? That’s a good start!
Using all the rainbow hues—
Love is wise—that’s my good news.
You can make your body wild
Just like when you were a child
But document your progress, so
You can see just how you grow.
A skateboard sticker I have goes,
“GREEN IS GOoD.” (Seedless should know.)
Not cash green! I now suggest
We give our nature here a rest:
Each day, dance for all and me—
Surprise us—creativity!
No one needs to waste away.
‘If not fun, why done?’ I say.
Science tells us the best way
Most inventive, now, is play!
Sitting versus dancing, here—
Make the world reject fear!
Our planet wants to be known
As a kind place, be a safe home
To stay and dine, without rapine—
(Grabbing others, saying ‘They’re mine.’)
A-R-T ’s in Earth—so, get it?
Grow up, go save your life with it!
Make some noise with pots and pans—
You can grow some grown-up plans!
Makin’ music—olders like it—
Givin’ hope—don’t drive but bike it.
Get tattoos if you need ‘em, whitey,
Browns, you, too, can be delightey.
What’s the rhythm of the game?
Lust is love, they are the same.
Appreciation, courtesy,
Are cool—they make humans to be
Friendly, optimistic, free
To help each other up. You see?