Democracy –Image: Oligo Oh
(Imprimis/Hillsdale College) The following is adapted from a speech delivered by Sen Ted Cruz, (R-TX) at Hillsdale College’s 161st Commencement 11 May, 2013
Today is a day of celebration. For you graduates, its a day to celebrate your hard work, your commitment, time, energy passion and prayers that you have put in to graduate from Hillsdale College. It’s also a day to celebrate the sacrifice and dedication your family has put in to get you here.
I am honored to join you today but let me say, I fully recognize the most forgettable part of this important day is going to be the politician delivering your commencement address.
This morning I had the opportunity to tour your wonderful campus and one of the highlights for me was the statue of Margret Thatcher. I understand that when the statue was unveiled, she sent a letter of praise that read: “Hillsdale College symbolizes everything that is good and true in America. You uphold the principles and cherish the values which have made your country a beacon of hope.” I couldn’t agree more.
There are commencements being held on campuses all over the country this Spring but this one is different. Hillsdale, it is known across the country, is in a class by itself.
Those graduating from other colleges are being told to go out and make something of themselves but for the Men and Women receiving their degrees today, expectations are higher because of the education you received here, you are uniquely prepared to provide desperately needed, principled leadership to your families, your churches, your communities, your country and your fellow man.
While other graduates have been exposed to college courses such as ‘Lady Gaga and the Sociology of Fame’ you have been grounded in an understanding of our Constitution and of the freedom it was designed to preserve.
Last month the world lost Baroness Thatcher and in her honor, I’d like to spend a few minutes discussing with you, “The Miracle of Freedom…”
Rest here from Imprimis, May/June, 2013