speech on life long

Think & Play Bigger!

18 Short Speeches About Life

At first, I set out to craft a speech about life . But as I delved deeper into the topic, I realized that summing up the vast tapestry of life in a single speech is a tall order. Life is not just one color or a single note; it’s a vibrant spectrum, a rainbow of experiences, moments, highs, lows, lessons, and memories. Each hue represents a different chapter, emotion, or milestone that contributes to our unique stories.

I also recognize that high school students might come across these words. I fondly recall my own school days when teachers would challenge us to pen down our thoughts on life. Such assignments, seemingly simple on the surface, often pushed us to self-reflection and growth.

With these memories and audiences in mind, I present to you not just one, but multiple speeches on life. Through these, I aim to touch upon the myriad facets of our existence, hoping that each reader, regardless of their age or journey, finds a sliver of resonance, a hint of inspiration, or a moment of reflection.

Speeches About Life

Speeches about life resonate with all of us because life, in its vastness and complexity, is the shared journey we all navigate. It’s filled with rainbows of experiences, highs and lows, and tales of courage, fear, triumphs, and setbacks.

Through these speeches, we get a window into the varied perspectives, learnings, and stories of others. They offer a mirror to our own experiences, sometimes teaching us, sometimes validating our feelings, and often inspiring us to see our path in a new light.

Moreover, life speeches bridge the gap between generations.

From a teenager in high school to a professional in their prime, everyone can find a piece of wisdom or an echo of their own story in these words.

By discussing life, we unite in our shared human experience, finding solace in the thought that we’re not alone in our struggles or joys. This universality, this binding thread, is what makes speeches about life timeless and impactful.

I have delivered these speeches in Toastmasters . I share these speeches when I teach about life and leadership. I have written them in the hope that you too will be inspired to write your speech about life and be an inspiration to others.

Tasks Masters and Big Thinkers

The Busy Trap: Why More Tasks Don’t Mean More Productivity

Failing Forward: How to Turn Setbacks into Springboards

Embrace Imperfection

Focus on What Matters Most

3 Ways to Enjoy & Simplify Life

The Persuasive Speaker Bootcamp

Amplify & Influence: Mastering Persuasive Presentations

The CEO Speaker Bootcamp: Craft Impactful Executive Speeches

The Informative Speaker Bootcamp: Crafting Captivating Educational Talks

Ask jef menguin.

As part of The 10x Chronicles , I'm launching a new segment where I answer YOUR burning questions. Whether it's about leadership, public speaking, productivity, or anything in between, I want to hear from you.

I'll dive deep into your questions on my podcast and articles, offering actionable advice, strategies, and stories from my experiences. No question is too big or too small—if it's on your mind, it's worth exploring. Submit your questions.

About The Author

Jef Menguin

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

--> Get 3M: Monday Morning Motivation (Short Notes to Start Your Week)

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Start typing and press enter to search

• Speech about Life for Students and Children

Speech about Life

Good morning one and all present here. I am standing before you all to share my thoughts through my speech about life. Life is a continuous ongoing process that has to end someday. Life is all about adoring yourself, creating yourself. A quote for you that life can be only understood backward but it must be lived forwards. Life itself is a golden opportunity to live a meaningful life and support others to do so. It doesn’t matter how many years you live. But it matters how well you live a quality life.

Source: pixabay.com

The fear of death always threatens our lives. Every person has to face death sooner or later, but that doesn’t mean that it should discourage us from living life to the fullest or achieving our goals. A person is wise only when he/she is ready to meet destiny when it comes, but until that time enjoys every bit of it. It is a sense of readiness. It is a journey in everyone’s life wherein we have to cross the bridge of death to be able to wake up to a life eternal.

Get the Huge list of 100+ Speech Topics here

Human life – A very Precious Gift

Human life is truly a very precious gift. Each moment of human life carries us an opportunity, to act to develop and express our virtues. Every moment unlocks the path to us to receive blessings. This is the truth that life gives us both positive and negative situations. What is really important is how we react.

Life is the gift of God in the form of trust that we will make it meaningful in whatever we can. We are all unique individuals. No one is born like you and no one will ever be, so cherish your individuality. Many times, I come across people accusing God of things that they don’t have. They always cursing their lives. But, do they realize that this life itself is precious? If we make it worth living and work hard towards positivity.

Life is a Journey, not a Destination

Life is nothing but a journey with lessons, hardships, heartache and special moments. It will ultimately lead us to our destination, our purpose in life. The road will not always be a plane; in fact, throughout our travels, we will face many challenges.

These challenges will always test our courage, strengths, weaknesses, and faith. Along our way, we may encounter obstacles that will come between the paths and we are destined to take.

In order to be on the right path, we must overcome these obstacles. Sometimes these obstacles are really blessings in disguise, only we don’t understand that at the time. The secret of life is best known to those who are not attached to anything deeply so much.

Therefore, they remain out of touch with worries and shifting fortunes of their lives. They are the people who do not measure their lives in terms of materialistic possessions, but by measuring their lives in terms of people they cannot live without.

Lastly, I will conclude that we should make life worthwhile. It should be with the love of our family and friends that life can be made beautiful. Life can be more beautiful and purposeful by discharging our duties in our family, at work, society and the world at large.

Read Essays for Students and Children here !

Customize your course in 30 seconds

Which class are you in.

Speech for Students

• Speech on India for Students and Children
• Speech on Mother for Students and Children
• Speech on Air Pollution for Students and Children
• Speech on Disaster Management for Students and Children
• Speech on Internet for Students and Children
• Speech on Generation Gap for Students and Children
• Speech on Indian Culture for Students and Children
• Speech on Sports for Students and Children
• Speech on Water for Students and Children

16 responses to “Speech on Water for Students and Children”

this was very helpful it saved my life i got this at the correct time very nice and helpful

This Helped Me With My Speech!!!

I can give it 100 stars for the speech it is amazing i love it.

Its amazing!!

Great !!!! It is an advanced definition and detail about Pollution. The word limit is also sufficient. It helped me a lot.

This is very good

Very helpful in my speech

Oh my god, this saved my life. You can just copy and paste it and change a few words. I would give this 4 out of 5 stars, because I had to research a few words. But my teacher didn’t know about this website, so amazing.

Tomorrow is my exam . This is Very helpfull

It’s really very helpful

yah it’s is very cool and helpful for me… a lot of 👍👍👍

Very much helpful and its well crafted and expressed. Thumb’s up!!!

wow so amazing it helped me that one of environment infact i was given a certificate

check it out travel and tourism voucher

thank you very much

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Download the App

16 Most Life-Changing Motivational Speeches & What You’ll Gain from Them

It’s all very well reading about ways to get ahead in life, but no account will ever reach you in quite the same way as hearing someone speak about their own experiences. While these people may be household names now, it wasn’t always that way, and this collection of some of the best motivational speeches will move you and inspire you to make your own dreams come true.

From Arnold Schwarzenneger talking about how he filled every moment of every day with steps to fulfil his ambition of becoming Mr. Universe, to J.K. Rowling’s life as an impoverished single mother, these speeches will fill you with the drive and determination to reach your full potential, and not let anything stand in your way.

Some are long, and some last just a few minutes, but each one will make you want to grab life with both hands and go for what you want, whatever it is.

“Most people have done all that they’re ever going to do – they raise a family, they earn a living, and then they die.”

That’s what we’re supposed to do, right? Wrong! Life is made for greater things, and you are meant for greater things.

When Les Brown was a child, he was labeled ‘educable mentally retarded’, and until a chance encounter with another teacher, he believed that he would amount to nothing. But this one teacher planted the seeds in Les’ head which would blossom and grow, and eventually make him one of the best motivational speakers of all time.

This speech will give you permission to rise above other people’s opinions, to break free of their prejudices, and make a success of whatever you do. Watch ‘It’s Not Over Until You Win! Your Dream is Possible’ and take those first steps towards following your passion and making your dream come true.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8f0nIhDpXuU

“Stress doesn’t come from the facts, stress comes from the meaning that we give the facts.”

Life is about choices. Every day we’re faced with hundreds of choices, and this speech by Tony Robbins will help you see that it’s the choices, not the conditions, which shape our lives.

Take a moment during this speech to pause and reflect on some choices you have made in the past, and really think about the direction your life took because of them, both good and bad. Tony Robbins explains in his inimitable way that we have the choice to focus on what we want, and that when we focus, we can achieve whatever we want.

Part of Tony’s speech explains how, when the economy is down, some people thrive and some people crash and burn, and the COVID 19 pandemic is the perfect example. Small businesses took a huge hit, and while some of them threw up their hands in despair and said ‘that’s it, it’s over for us’, others adapted, and saw it as an opportunity to expand, diversify, and turn the situation to their advantage.

And that’s the cornerstone of this video – how we react, how we adapt, and how we choose is the difference between success and failure.

“So every rep that I do gets me closer to accomplishing the goal to make this goal – this vision – into reality.”

Be inspired by Arnold Schwarzenneger as he talks about his goal of becoming Mr. Universe. Never wasting a second of his day, Arnie worked in construction, spent 5 hours in the gym, and went to acting classes, all of which took him further along his journey to making his dream come true.

We all have a propensity to waste time, but if you have a goal, if you have a passion that smolders away, take a leaf out of Arnie’s book and make sure that everything you do propels you forward.

And don’t be afraid to fail.

“Your conviction and your convenience don’t live on the same block.”

If you are a fan of The Secret, you will be familiar with Lisa Nicholls. In this video, Lisa tells Tom Bilyeu how she was willing to leave everything and everyone behind in order to grow into the version of herself that she knew she wanted.

Lisa explains how, as a young mother, she was forced to wrap her baby in a towel for two days because she had no money for diapers, and how it was at that moment that she vowed never to be that broke or that broken again.

Change, success, drive…they’re all inconvenient and disruptive, and Lisa Nicholls demonstrates that wonderfully in this emotional and highly motivating interview in which she declares “your story is not meant to be your fortress, your story is meant to be your fuel.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=toQmqLwNtho

Eric Thomas had a dream, a goal, and that goal was to be the best motivational speaker in the world. He didn’t achieve this by giving 70%, or 80%…he didn’t achieve it by staying in bed late in the mornings. He achieved it by giving 100% every minute of every day.

Listen to Eric’s words, hear the passion in his voice, and feel the lessons he is giving to you if you want to be the best at whatever you do.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OtuHZC-ObA8

“If we don’t take control of our environment, it takes control of us.”

This short piece by Tony Robbins has been designed to show you that you are in control of your own environment. Whether you realize it or not, what goes on around you has a massive influence on the way you feel and the way you act.

By taking leadership of your own life, you can defy outside influences and set your own tone for the day ahead, regardless of whatever or whoever is exerting pressure from the outside.

Follow Tony’s example of taking 10 minutes for yourself at the start of every day – for gratitude, prayer or wishes for family and friends, and a recap of what you want to accomplish that day, and your day will continue on that same path of thankfulness, hope, and goals.

“Your mind doesn’t know the difference between something you vividly imagined and something that’s real, literally!”

If you want to emulate the way successful people behave, take these 10 billionaires’ habits and adopt them yourself for 21 days.

Billed by Jim Kwik as being ‘like a magic pill’, these habits will rewire your brain into thinking and behaving like some of the world’s most successful people.

In this 8 minute clip, Jim shares how, for instance, your brain reacts the same way when you imagine your dog walking in as it does when your dog actually walks in, and this can apply to anything. What the mind can conceive and believe, it can achieve.

As much as this applies to positive things, it also can be applied to negative things, so if you imagine failure, that’s what you will get. Fill your mind with thoughts of success and that’s what will happen.

None of these habits are difficult to accomplish, but in doing so you will change your entire mindset into one of a hugely successful person, no matter what you want to achieve in life.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8fzGPwY40Cw

“Don’t leave crumbs.”

If this sounds more like a housekeeping hint and less like a motivational affirmation, you’re 50% right. Our lives do need housekeeping, and not leaving crumbs – i.e. regrets – which will come back and rob your tomorrow of joy, is one of the chores you need to do on a daily basis.

Matthew McConaughey delivers a powerful speech in a gentle way at the University of Houston Commencement Address.

Discussing the five rules he lives by, he will show you how to avoid falling into a trap of entitlement, and why ‘Unbelievable’ is the stupidest word in the dictionary.

With some invaluable life lessons contained inside a highly watchable speech, Matthew McConaughey is an unlikely but very inspiring speaker who has stayed humble despite all his successes.

“There are a lot of sharks in the world; if you hope to complete the swim, you will have to deal with them. So if you want to change the world, don’t back down from the sharks.”

Spoken with eloquence and quiet assuredness, this six-minute speech draws on US Navy Admiral William McRaven’s experience of survival in the Navy Seals.

He explains how making your bed, while seemingly insignificant and even pointless, will set a series of tasks in motion which will ensure that at best, the first job of the day is done, and at worst, you have a neat, tidy bed to fall into at the end of a trying day.

The world is full of people who want to bring you down (the sharks) but if you stand your ground, they will eventually swim away, leaving you to go on to bigger and better things.

“Sometimes life’s gonna hit you in the face with a brick…don’t lose faith.”

Steve Jobs, chairman, CEO, and co-founder of Apple Inc. was hit in the face with more than one brick during his 56 years on earth. From being given up for adoption as a baby, to being fired from the very company which he founded, he never let anything get in his way.

In this commencement speech at Stamford University in 2005, Steve explained how his love for what he did spurred him on to rebuild his life in spectacular fashion.

Life dealt a further blow when, in 2003, he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

This speech focuses on three stories which, when combined, show how life offers opportunities for change and growth, no matter how dire the circumstances.

Steve Jobs never graduated college, but when he died in 2011, aged just 56, he had a net worth of US$7 billion. He achieved this by doing what he loved, and in this speech he will inspire you to do the same.

“It is impossible to live without failing at something, unless you live so cautiously than you might as well not have lived at all. In which case, you fail by default.”

Let J. K. Rowling inspire you with this 2008 commencement speech at Harvard University. Extolling the virtues of failure and imagination, she tells the graduates how being at rock bottom set her free to pursue her dreams of being an author.

As poor as it is possible to be without being homeless, she created the world of Harry Potter and went on to amass a fortune of £795 million, but that without her failures in life, she would never have had the opportunity to do so.

Let her words become your own mantra, and view every failure in your life as a future success.

“We shine, because baby you just can’t dim the sun.”

A beautiful antidote for anyone who has ever felt or been told that they are ‘too much’, Gina Hatzis’ winning Speaker Slam speech of 2018 will give you permission to be unashamedly you.

Although written by a woman for women, this powerful and sometimes humorous speech about being your own authentic self will inspire anyone – man or woman – to shine and never dim their own light to suit other people.

“The first step you need to take is just that…step.”

If you are in need of a short, sharp burst of motivation, listen to this speech by ex Navy Seal, Jocko Willink.

Running for less than three minutes, this recording will inspire you to take a step into whatever you want to achieve. Awarded both the Silver Star and the Bronze Star for service, Jocko Willink is no stranger to taking those brave steps, having come face to face with Iraqu insurgents in Ramadi. He will spur you on to put one metaphorical foot in front of the other, and will leave you in no doubt as to what you need to do to achieve your goals.

“On the other side of your maximum fear are all of the best things in life.”

If you like your motivation with a side order of laughter, watch Will Smith as he talks about fear. Agreeing to skydive on a night out with friends, Will realizes that he actually has to go through with it.

Discussing how fear ruins things (he couldn’t sleep or eat before the jump), Will also discloses that beyond fear was the most blissful experience of his life, and how that principle can be applied to anything in life.

“Only those that can see the invisible, can do the impossible.”

Tyrese Gibson knows success, and in this speech he talks about how it can be achieved, by anyone who wants it.

Actor, singer, author, model…Tyrese seems to have the Midas touch, but he didn’t get it by luck. Follow his words as he gently but passionately guides you along the path you need to take if you have goals and dreams in life.

“I refuse to be another man who lived and died, and wasn’t significant’”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bzl3CQXMRVo

“If it is written, so shall it be.”

When Steve Harvey’s teacher crushed his dreams of being on TV, the one person who believed in him was his father. He told him to put a piece of paper with his dreams on in his drawer, and to read it every morning and every night.

His dreams came true.

It didn’t always come easy for Steve Harvey though – he spent years living in his car when he had nowhere else to go, but the one thing he never lost was his ambition and determination to see his dreams through to fruition.

A firm believer in the Law of Attraction, Steve still has vision boards and still commits his dreams to writing, and encourages you to do the same in this speech that made Obama cry.

These motivational speeches, and many more like them, show how having guts, determination, and a vision will get you anywhere you want to go, no matter your beginnings in life. These inspirational speakers have suffered loss, sickness, and unbelievable hardships, but the one thing that got them through was their desire to win and their belief that they could.

Immerse yourself in their words of wisdom, and take that next step into your best life.

More on Motivation

• 8 Rituals to Cultivating True Self-Motivation That Lasts
• 10 Monday Morning Habits for a Successful Week
• Motivational Quotes

Submit a Comment

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Great Talks Most People Have Never Heard

Not long ago, I came across a little-known speech titled, “You and Your Research”.

The speech had been delivered in 1986 by Richard Hamming, an accomplished mathematician and computer engineer, as part of an internal series of talks given at Bell Labs. I had never heard of Hamming, the internal lecture series at Bell Labs, or this particular speech. And yet, as I read the transcript, I came across one useful insight after another.

After reading that talk, I got to thinking… what other great talks and speeches are out there that I’ve never heard?

I’ve been slowly searching for answers to that question and the result is this list of my favorite interesting and insightful talks that are not widely known. You may see a few famous speeches on this list, but my guess is that most people are not aware of many of them—just as I wasn’t when I first started looking around.

As far as I know this is the only place where you can read transcripts of these speeches in one place.

Famous Speeches and Great Talks

This list is organized by presenter name and then speech topic. Click the links below to jump to a specific speech. On each page, you’ll find a full transcript of the speech as well as some additional background information.

• Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, “The Danger of a Single Story”
• Jeff Bezos, “Statement by Jeff Bezos to the U.S. House Committee on the Judiciary”
• Jeff Bezos, “What Matters More Than Your Talents”
• John C. Bogle, “Enough”
• Brené Brown, “ The Anatomy of Trust “
• John Cleese, “Creativity in Management”
• William Deresiewicz, “Solitude and Leadership”
• Richard Feynman, “Seeking New Laws”
• Neil Gaiman, “Make Good Art”
• John W. Gardner, “Personal Renewal”
• Elizabeth Gilbert, “Your Elusive Creative Genius”
• Albert E. N. Gray,  “The Common Denominator of Success”
• Bill Gurley, “Runnin Down a Dream”
• Richard Hamming, “Learning to Learn”
• Richard Hamming, “You and Your Research”
• Steve Jobs, “2005 Stanford Commencement Address”
• Peter Kaufman,  “The Multidisciplinary Approach to Thinking”
• C.S. Lewis, “The Inner Ring”
• Admiral William H. McRaven, “Make Your Bed”
• Arno Rafael Minkkinen, “Finding Your Own Vision”
• Charlie Munger, “2007 USC Law School Commencement Address”
• Charlie Munger, “A Lesson on Elementary, Worldly Wisdom”
• Charlie Munger, “How to Guarantee a Life of Misery”
• Charlie Munger, “The Psychology of Human Misjudgment”
• Nathan Myhrvold, “ Roadkill on the Information Highway “
• Randy Pausch, “Achieving Your Childhood Dreams”
• Randy Pausch, “Time Management”
• Anna Quindlen,  “1999 Mount Holyoke Commencement Speech”
• John Roberts, “I Wish You Bad Luck”
• Sir Ken Robinson, “Do Schools Kill Creativity?”
• J.K. Rowling, “The Fringe Benefits of Failure”
• George Saunders, “Failures of Kindness”
• Claude Shannon, “Creative Thinking”
• BF Skinner, “How to Discover What You Have to Say”
• Jim Valvano, “Don’t Give Up”
• Bret Victor, “Inventing on Principle”
• David Foster Wallace, “This is Water”
• Art Williams, “Just Do It”
• Evan Williams,  “A Journey on the Information Highway”

This is an on-going project. If you know of another great talk, please contact me .

30 Days to Better Habits: A simple step-by-step guide for forming habits that stick

• Take the guesswork out of habit-building. 11 email lessons walk you through the first 30 days of a habit step-by-step, so you know exactly what to do.
• Get the tools and strategies you need to take action. The course includes a 20-page PDF workbook (including templates and cheatsheets), plus new examples and applications that you can’t find in Atomic Habits. 
• Learn a framework that works for any habit. You can use this course to build any good habit – from getting fit, to saving for an early retirement, to daily meditation.

Enroll in the free email course and get your first lesson today

• Skip to main content
• Skip to secondary menu
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

A Plus Topper

Improve your Grades

Speech on Life | Life Speech for Students and Children in English

February 8, 2024 by Prasanna

Speech on Life:  Everybody living on this earth is leading his Life, but if we talk about humans, then their life is not a bed of roses, it has problems and struggles. But Life has some appealing aspects also, which gives one a ray of hope and positivity. We have people, family, relatives, and friends who make our life special, worth living and make us feel about the specialty of our Life. Life is a trademark that symbolizes physical elements that have natural procedures, such as flagging and self-continuing procedures, from those that don’t, either because such capacities have stopped or because they never had such capabilities and are delegated lifeless.

Students can also find more  English Speech Writing  about Welcome Speeches, Farewell Speeches, etc.

Long and Short Speeches on Life for Students and Kids in English

We are providing a long Life Speech of 500 words and a short speech of 150 words along with ten lines about the Life Speech to help readers.

These speeches will be useful for school going students as well as college students. They can refer to this anytime to boost their academic performance.

Long Speech on Life 500 Words in English

Long Speech on Life is usually given to classes 7, 8, 9, and 10.

Good morning to everyone.

I am here before all of you to share my musings through my discourse about Life. Life is a continuous nonstop procedure that needs to end sometime in the not so distant future. Life is tied in with loving yourself, making yourself. A statement for better description can be that Life can be just seen in reverse, yet it must be lived advances. Life itself is a brilliant chance to carry on with significant Life and bolster others to do as such. It doesn’t make a difference in how long you live. In any case, it is crucial how well you carry on with a quality life.

The dread of death consistently compromises our lives. Each individual needs to confront passing at some point or another. However, that doesn’t imply that it ought to demoralize us from making every moment count or accomplishing our objectives. An individual is insightful when he/she is prepared to meet predetermination when it comes, yet until that time, he appreciates all of it. It is a feeling of status. It is an excursion in everybody’s Life wherein we need to cross the extension of death to have the option to wake up to an actual existence endless. Human Life is genuinely an exceptionally valuable blessing. Every snapshot of human Life conveys us a chance to act to create and communicate. Each second opens the way for us to get gifts. The reality is that Life gives us both positive and negative circumstances. What is extremely significant is how we respond to it.

Life is the endowment of God as a trust that we will make it significant in whatever we can. Nobody is brought into the world like you, and nobody will ever be, so esteem your independence. Commonly, I run over individuals blaming God for things that they don’t have. They are continually reviling their lives. In any case, do they understand that getting this Life itself is valuable if we make it worth living and buckle down towards energy? Life is only an excursion with exercises, difficulties, grief, and uncommon minutes. It will, at last, lead us to our goal, our motivation throughout everyday Life. The street won’t generally be a plane; indeed, all through our movements, we will confront numerous difficulties.

These difficulties will consistently test our mental fortitude, qualities, shortcomings, and confidence. Along our way, we may experience obstructions that will interfere with the ways we are bound to take. To be in the correct way, we should defeat these impediments. At times these snags are truly surprisingly beneficial developments; we don’t comprehend that at that point. The mystery of Life is most popular with the individuals who are not joined to anything profoundly to such an extent.

Ultimately, I will infer that we should make Life advantageous. It ought to be with the affection for our loved ones that Life can be made delightful. Life can be progressively excellent and deliberate by releasing our family obligations, busy working, society, and the world on the loose.

Thank you for your valuable time.

Short Speech on Life 150 Words in English

Short Speech on Life is usually given to classes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6.

Good morning everyone, I’m here to express my views on Life.

There is presently no accord concerning the meaning of Life. One well-known definition is that life forms are open frameworks that look after homeostasis, are made out of cells, have a real existence cycle, experience digestion, develop, adjust to their condition, react to boosts, and recreate and advance. Different definitions, in some cases, incorporate non-cell life structures, for example, infections and germs.

We see people complaining about what they don’t have. However, you can breathe, stay alive, and live your Life is itself a blessing. In this manner, they stay distant from stresses and moving fortunes of their lives. One should understand the importance of Life. The very purpose of your Life is not meant to win or lose; it is just for the sake of living it to the fullest.

So, instead of wasting time in complaints and dissatisfaction, let’s stay happy with the fact that we are given a life.

10 Lines on Life Speech in English

• There is a great deal of worry around us the entire day, which makes it part of our brains obstacles.
• The pressure can emerge at the office, at home, in certain relations, or in whatever else.
• While taking care of these sorts of pressure, people don’t find the opportunity to see the excellence of Life.
• We overlook that there is something more in our Life, which is significant and wonderful.
• God has given us a lot of beneficial things like the magnificence of nature in our Life.
• Trees, creatures, plants, daylight, and others give us energy and joy throughout everyday Life.
• Nature instructs us that we ought to be glad and positive despite all chances.
• Challenges are a piece of Life; without it, our Life will get exhausting and uncomfortable.
• We should keep ourselves quiet, and afterward, managing the issues will turn out to be simple.
• Whatever the circumstance might be, we should not go astray from the objective and objectives of our Life.

FAQ’s on Life Speech

Question 1. What can be regarded as an ideal life?

Answer: Everyone has their ideals. Thus, the definition of an ideal life is different for every one of us.

Question 2. How to feel satisfied with your Life?

Answer: One can feel satisfied when he or she understands the very essence of Life, that is, Life is not meant about winning or losing, but it’s essential to live your Life to the fullest.

Question 3. What is a decent life?

Answer: A decent life is when your standpoint is that you have more great days than awful when Life is commonly a gift, not a weight.

Question 4. What are the positive contemplations?

Answer: Positive reasoning is the way toward making self- musings that make and change vitality into the real world and makes you optimistic.

• Picture Dictionary
• English Speech
• English Slogans
• English Letter Writing
• English Essay Writing
• English Textbook Answers
• Types of Certificates
• ICSE Solutions
• Selina ICSE Solutions
• ML Aggarwal Solutions
• HSSLive Plus One
• HSSLive Plus Two
• Kerala SSLC
• Distance Education

• Skip to main content
• Keyboard shortcuts for audio player

Read Martin Luther King Jr.'s 'I Have a Dream' speech in its entirety

Civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. addresses the crowd at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., where he gave his "I Have a Dream" speech on Aug. 28, 1963, as part of the March on Washington. AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. addresses the crowd at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., where he gave his "I Have a Dream" speech on Aug. 28, 1963, as part of the March on Washington.

Monday marks Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Below is a transcript of his celebrated "I Have a Dream" speech, delivered on Aug. 28, 1963, on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. NPR's Talk of the Nation aired the speech in 2010 — listen to that broadcast at the audio link above.

Martin Luther King Jr. and other civil rights leaders gather before a rally at the Lincoln Memorial on Aug. 28, 1963, in Washington. National Archives/Hulton Archive via Getty Images hide caption

Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.: Five score years ago, a great American, in whose symbolic shadow we stand today, signed the Emancipation Proclamation. This momentous decree came as a great beacon light of hope to millions of Negro slaves who had been seared in the flames of withering injustice. It came as a joyous daybreak to end the long night of their captivity.

But 100 years later, the Negro still is not free. One hundred years later, the life of the Negro is still sadly crippled by the manacles of segregation and the chains of discrimination. One hundred years later, the Negro lives on a lonely island of poverty in the midst of a vast ocean of material prosperity. One hundred years later the Negro is still languished in the corners of American society and finds himself in exile in his own land. And so we've come here today to dramatize a shameful condition. In a sense we've come to our nation's capital to cash a check.

Code Switch

The power of martin luther king jr.'s anger.

When the architects of our republic wrote the magnificent words of the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence, they were signing a promissory note to which every American was to fall heir. This note was a promise that all men — yes, Black men as well as white men — would be guaranteed the unalienable rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

It is obvious today that America has defaulted on this promissory note insofar as her citizens of color are concerned. Instead of honoring this sacred obligation, America has given the Negro people a bad check, a check which has come back marked insufficient funds.

But we refuse to believe that the bank of justice is bankrupt.

Martin Luther King is not your mascot

We refuse to believe that there are insufficient funds in the great vaults of opportunity of this nation. And so we've come to cash this check, a check that will give us upon demand the riches of freedom and the security of justice.

We have also come to this hallowed spot to remind America of the fierce urgency of now. This is no time to engage in the luxury of cooling off or to take the tranquilizing drug of gradualism.

Now is the time to make real the promises of democracy. Now is the time to rise from the dark and desolate valley of segregation to the sunlit path of racial justice. Now is the time to lift our nation from the quick sands of racial injustice to the solid rock of brotherhood. Now is the time to make justice a reality for all of God's children.

Civil rights protesters march from the Washington Monument to the Lincoln Memorial for the March on Washington on Aug. 28, 1963. Kurt Severin/Three Lions/Hulton Archive/Getty Images hide caption

It would be fatal for the nation to overlook the urgency of the moment. This sweltering summer of the Negro's legitimate discontent will not pass until there is an invigorating autumn of freedom and equality. 1963 is not an end, but a beginning. Those who hope that the Negro needed to blow off steam and will now be content will have a rude awakening if the nation returns to business as usual.

There will be neither rest nor tranquility in America until the Negro is granted his citizenship rights. The whirlwinds of revolt will continue to shake the foundations of our nation until the bright day of justice emerges.

But there is something that I must say to my people who stand on the warm threshold which leads into the palace of justice. In the process of gaining our rightful place, we must not be guilty of wrongful deeds. Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred.

Throughline

Bayard rustin: the man behind the march on washington (2021).

We must forever conduct our struggle on the high plane of dignity and discipline. We must not allow our creative protest to degenerate into physical violence. Again and again, we must rise to the majestic heights of meeting physical force with soul force. The marvelous new militancy which has engulfed the Negro community must not lead us to a distrust of all white people, for many of our white brothers, as evidenced by their presence here today, have come to realize that their destiny is tied up with our destiny.

And they have come to realize that their freedom is inextricably bound to our freedom. We cannot walk alone. And as we walk, we must make the pledge that we shall always march ahead. We cannot turn back.

There are those who are asking the devotees of civil rights, when will you be satisfied? We can never be satisfied as long as the Negro is the victim of the unspeakable horrors of police brutality. We can never be satisfied as long as our bodies, heavy with the fatigue of travel, cannot gain lodging in the motels of the highways and the hotels of the cities.

We cannot be satisfied as long as the Negro's basic mobility is from a smaller ghetto to a larger one. We can never be satisfied as long as our children are stripped of their selfhood and robbed of their dignity by signs stating: for whites only.

We cannot be satisfied as long as a Negro in Mississippi cannot vote and a Negro in New York believes he has nothing for which to vote.

No, no, we are not satisfied, and we will not be satisfied until justice rolls down like waters, and righteousness like a mighty stream.

How The Voting Rights Act Came To Be And How It's Changed

I am not unmindful that some of you have come here out of great trials and tribulations. Some of you have come fresh from narrow jail cells. Some of you have come from areas where your quest for freedom left you battered by the storms of persecution and staggered by the winds of police brutality. You have been the veterans of creative suffering. Continue to work with the faith that unearned suffering is redemptive. Go back to Mississippi, go back to Alabama, go back to South Carolina, go back to Georgia, go back to Louisiana, go back to the slums and ghettos of our Northern cities, knowing that somehow this situation can and will be changed.

Let us not wallow in the valley of despair, I say to you today, my friends.

So even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream. I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.

People clap and sing along to a freedom song between speeches at the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in 1963. Express Newspapers via Getty Images hide caption

I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia, the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood.

I have a dream that one day even the state of Mississippi, a state sweltering with the heat of injustice, sweltering with the heat of oppression will be transformed into an oasis of freedom and justice.

I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character. I have a dream today.

I have a dream that one day down in Alabama with its vicious racists, with its governor having his lips dripping with the words of interposition and nullification, one day right down in Alabama little Black boys and Black girls will be able to join hands with little white boys and white girls as sisters and brothers. I have a dream today.

I have a dream that one day every valley shall be exalted, every hill and mountain shall be made low, the rough places will be made plain, and the crooked places will be made straight, and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together.

Nikole Hannah-Jones on the power of collective memory

• LISTEN & FOLLOW
• Apple Podcasts
• Amazon Music

Your support helps make our show possible and unlocks access to our sponsor-free feed.

This is our hope. This is the faith that I go back to the South with. With this faith, we will be able to hew out of the mountain of despair a stone of hope. With this faith we will be able to transform the jangling discords of our nation into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood. With this faith we will be able to work together, to pray together, to struggle together, to go to jail together, to stand up for freedom together, knowing that we will be free one day.

This will be the day when all of God's children will be able to sing with new meaning: My country, 'tis of thee, sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing. Land where my fathers died, land of the pilgrims' pride, from every mountainside, let freedom ring.

And if America is to be a great nation, this must become true. And so let freedom ring from the prodigious hilltops of New Hampshire. Let freedom ring from the mighty mountains of New York. Let freedom ring from the heightening Alleghenies of Pennsylvania. Let freedom ring from the snowcapped Rockies of Colorado. Let freedom ring from the curvaceous slopes of California. But not only that, let freedom ring from Stone Mountain of Georgia. Let freedom ring from Lookout Mountain of Tennessee. Let freedom ring from every hill and molehill of Mississippi. From every mountainside, let freedom ring.

And when this happens, and when we allow freedom ring, when we let it ring from every village and every hamlet, from every state and every city, we will be able to speed up that day when all of God's children, Black men and white men, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics, will be able to join hands and sing in the words of the old Negro spiritual: Free at last. Free at last. Thank God almighty, we are free at last.

Correction Jan. 15, 2024

A previous version of this transcript included the line, "We have also come to his hallowed spot to remind America of the fierce urgency of now." The correct wording is "We have also come to this hallowed spot to remind America of the fierce urgency of now."

12 Inspirational Speeches That Teach You the Most Valuable Life Lessons

The most valuable thing an experienced person has is their experience. People make mistakes, learn from them, and adapt their life around them to become better people. Those people would then tell tales to others to help teach those lessons so that others would not have to make the same mistakes.

People still tell these stories today but in a slightly different format — they use speeches to express their experiences. Here are some valuable life lessons you can learn from some of the greatest inspirational speeches:

1. JK Rowling teaches us to not fear failure no matter how bad things become

It is a well-known fact that JK Rowling’s now-famous Harry Potter series was turned down by several publishers before it was finally picked up. Those publishers are likely kicking themselves in the pants right now. However, before that, JK Rowling was in a fairly dire situation and was on the brink of failure. Despite being turned down time and time again, she kept trying. Her efforts paid off. Harry Potter is now a ubiquitous character in today’s world culture. Despite failing over and over again, Rowling kept trying and fulfilled her dreams. You can watch her deliver some valuable life lessons in her Harvard commencement speech video above.

2. Steve Jobs teaches us to never settle

Steve Jobs had a fairly tumultuous life. He co-founded Apple, was kicked out of the company, came back, and then re-defined the mobile phone space with the iPhone. Even if iPhones aren’t the rage they once were, its iconic value is forever written in stone. One thing Jobs never did was settle. He lived life on his own terms and was rewarded for it by being dubbed one of the most revolutionary voices in technology of our time. In the Stanford commencement speech above, Jobs explains how you should never settle for what someone else wants out of your life. It’s your life and you should do what you want with it.

3. Admiral William H McRaven teaches us to make our beds every day

Anyone who has gone through the basic training of a military service will tell you it’s pretty difficult. However, every seemingly obnoxious step is actually a life lesson in disguise. This even applies to flawlessly making one’s bed every single morning. As Admiral William H McRaven teaches us, recruits are taught to make their beds every morning to remind them that even the little things in life matter. After all, how can you be expected to handle the biggest obstacles in your life if you can’t even handle the small and the mundane like making your bed every day? You can watch the entire speech in the video above.

4. Author David Foster Wallace teaches us that we’re a part of a greater existence

David Foster Wallace found fame in 1987 with his book The Broom of the System . Nearly 20 years later in 2005 he game a commencement speech at Kenyon College that is worth listening to at least once. In his speech, he reminds us that was are but a part of a huge, dynamic, ever changing interaction of life forms. In order to truly experience life, we need to leave our personal bubbles and interact with others even if it’s in an unpleasant way. Wallace states, “It will actually be within your power to experience a crowded, hot, slow, consumer-hell type situation as not only meaningful, but sacred, on fire with the same force that made the stars: love, fellowship, the mystical oneness of all things deep down.” You can watch the whole speech above.

5. Stephen Colbert teaches us that life isn’t something you can plan

If there is anyone who knows about improvisation, it’s comedian Stephen Colbert. In his commencement speech at Northwestern University in 2011, Colbert reminded students that you cannot plan life. Life throws too many curve balls. There are too many unpredictable things that can happen. The most successful and happy people are not those who have a plan, but those who can roll with the punches and overcome the obstacles. He goes on to site his time as an improv comic and how all of the actors working together to create a scene out of literally nothing are all working for one another. He states that like improv comedy, you don’t know what happens next in life. You just make it up as you go along. You can watch the whole speech above.

6. Kurt Vonnegut teaches us to not sweat the small stuff

Some of our younger readers may not know Kurt Vonnegut. He is a famous author that found of of his success during the middle of last century. In 1999, Kurt Vonnegut was at Agnes Scott College giving a commencement speech. During the speech, he mentioned that in order to live a more complete life, people needed to let stuff go. He argued that you cannot reasonably expect others to forgive you for your mistakes if you cannot forgive others and that you cannot live life fostering a personal vendetta against others.

7. Neil Gaiman teaches us that success can be distracting.

Neil Gaiman is most known for his work in a number of literary mediums including journalism, comic books, and novels. In 2012, Gaiman gave a speech at the University of the Arts where he talked about success. He stated that when you become successful, you may be unintentionally swayed from performing the actions that made you successful. Gaiman recalled his early success and how he felt pressured to answer emails all day long and it actually prevented him from writing as much as he wanted. So he reminds us to keep doing what makes us successful and to not let others get in the way.

8. Barack Obama’s life lessons teaches us that you really can beat the odds

We know that not everyone likes Barack Obama but that doesn’t mean the man can’t deliver an amazing speech. In this 2004 keynote speech at the Democratic National Convenction, Obama reminds that it is possible to beat the odds and become something great. He cites his own upbringing as an example and how he was never expected to make it as far as he did. It shows that when you’re passionate about something and when you try hard enough, you can accomplish almost anything. It’s important to note that Obama talks about this in 2004 and would become the President of the United States just four years later.

9. Robin Roberts reminds us that we each have the courage to overcome challenges

Robin Roberts knows a thing or two about courage. She is a breast cancer survivor and has done battle with a rare blood disease called myelodysplastic syndrome. Her sister once had to donate bone marrow just so Robin could remain alive. She was also ESPN’s first African American broadcaster in the early 1990’s. She’s a woman who works in an industry predominately populated by men. So when Robin Roberts takes the stage at the ESPYs and delivers a short lecture on having courage, we would do well to listen!

10. Martin Luther King Jr. reminds us that some things are more important than success

We all know the story of Martin Luther King Jr. So much so that we have a day of the year to celebrate him as a national holiday here in the United States. Most of us have listening to segments of his famous speech where he told the world about a dream he had. The main message of his famous speech is that racial inequalities needed to end and he was absolutely right. However, he also reminds us that there are things that are more important than success such as equal rights and treating each other with respect and kindness. If you somehow made it through school without watching the famous speech, we’ve got it linked above.

11. Jim Carrey reminds us that even if you keep it safe, you can still fail so you might as well go big

Jim Carrey delivered a commencement speech at Maharishi University recently that went absolutely viral. You may know it as the one minute video that will change your life. They weren’t lying but they weren’t telling the whole truth because the speech was actually 28 minutes long. During the speech, Carrey talks about his father who wanted to be a comedian but decided to take the safe route and become an accountant. As it turns out, his father was laid off and his family ended up poor anyway. With that, Carrey tells us that you can still end up failing even if you play it safe so you might as well swing for the fences and do what you want to do.

12. Bill Murray teaches us that it’s the hard times that determine if someone really loves you

You may have heard the story about Bill Murray crashing someone’s bachelor party and delivering a speech. It turns out the speech was both short and fairly epic. During the speech, Bill Murray challenged the bachelors to travel around the world with the women they love and go to places that are difficult to go to and deal with. He says if you can get back to the United States and you still love each other, then you should get married right then and there. It’s a great message. It’s easy to love one another when times are good but do you still love each other when the times are bad? If so, that’s true love according to Bill Murray.

Final thoughts

Inspiration comes from everywhere and from anyone. There are a countless number of speeches and stories that can teach us an incalculable number of life lessons.

All these speeches almost share the same message: Don’t be afraid to fail and keep trying.

If you also want to live your best life like the above successful people, this is what you should start doing:

You’ll Only Live Your Best Life Once You Step Out

At the end of the day, everything is inspirational. It’s just a matter of finding the message that we need to hear to change our lives.

Featured photo credit: Miguel Henriques via unsplash.com

How to Use a Planner Effectively

How to Be a Better Planner: Avoid the Planning Fallacy

5 Best Apps to Help You Delegate Tasks Easily

Delegating Leadership Style: What Is It & When To Use It?

The Fear of Delegating Work To Others

Why Is Delegation Important in Leadership?

7 Best Tools for Prioritizing Work

How to Deal with Competing Priorities Effectively

What Is the RICE Prioritization Model And How Does It Work?

4 Exercises to Improve Your Focus

What Is Chronic Procrastination and How To Deal with It

How to Snap Out of Procrastination With ADHD

Are Depression And Procrastination Connected?

Procrastination And Laziness: Their Differences & Connections

Bedtime Procrastination: Why You Do It And How To Break It

15 Books on Procrastination To Help You Start Taking Action

Productive Procrastination: Is It Good or Bad?

The Impact of Procrastination on Productivity

How to Cope With Anxiety-Induced Procrastination

How to Break the Perfectionism-Procrastination Loop

15 Work-Life Balance Books to Help You Take Control of Life

Work Life Balance for Women: What It Means & How to Find It

6 Essential Mindsets For Continuous Career Growth

How to Discover Your Next Career Move Amid the Great Resignation

The Key to Creating a Vibrant (And Magical Life) by Lee Cockerell

9 Tips on How To Disconnect From Work And Stay Present

Work-Life Integration vs Work-Life Balance: Is One Better Than the Other?

How To Practice Self-Advocacy in the Workplace (Go-to Guide)

How to Boost Your Focus And Attention Span

What Are Distractions in a Nutshell?

What Is Procrastination And How To End It

Prioritization — Using Your Time & Energy Effectively

Delegation — Leveraging Your Time & Resources

Your Guide to Effective Planning & Scheduling

The Ultimate Guide to Achieving Goals

How to Find Lasting Motivation

Complete Guide to Getting Back Your Energy

How to Have a Good Life Balance

Explore the time flow system.

About the Time Flow System

Key Philosophy I: Fluid Progress, Like Water

Key Philosophy II: Pragmatic Priorities

Key Philosophy III: Sustainable Momentum

Key Philosophy IV: Three Goal Focus

How the Time Flow System Works

• Accessories
• Facial Hair

Browse all Get Style

• Program Review

Browse all Get Strong

• Relationships
• Social Skills

Browse all Get Social

• Manly Know-How
• Outdoor/Survival

Browse all Get Skilled

in: Character , Featured , Knowledge of Men

Brett & Kate McKay • August 24, 2020 • Last updated: August 25, 2021

The 35 Greatest Speeches in History

These famous speeches lifted hearts in dark times, gave hope in despair, refined the characters of men, inspired brave feats, gave courage to the weary, honored the dead, and changed the course of history.

How did we compile this list?

Great oratory has three components: style, substance, and impact.

Style: A great speech must be masterfully constructed. The best orators are masters of both the written and spoken word, and use words to create texts that are beautiful to both hear and read.

Substance: A speech may be flowery and charismatically presented, and yet lack any true substance at all. Great oratory must center on a worthy theme; it must appeal to and inspire the audience’s finest values and ideals.

Impact: Great oratory always seeks to persuade the audience of some fact or idea. The very best speeches change hearts and minds and seem as revelatory several decades or centuries removed as when they were first given.

And now for the speeches.

Contents [ hide ]

• 1. Theodore Roosevelt, "Duties of American Citizenship"
• 2. Winston Churchill, "We Shall Fight on the Beaches"
• 3. Lou Gehrig, "Farewell to Baseball Address"
• 4. Demosthenes, "The Third Philippic"
• 5. Chief Joseph, "Surrender Speech"
• 6. John F. Kennedy, "Inauguration Address"

7. Ronald Reagan, "Address to the Nation on the Challenger"

8. "speech of alexander the great", 9. william wilberforce, "abolition speech", 10. theodore roosevelt, "the man with the muck-rake", 11. franklin delano roosevelt, "first inaugural address", 12. charles de gaulle, "the appeal of 18 june", 13. socrates, "apology", 14. george washington, "resignation speech", 15. mahatma gandhi, "quit india", 16. winston churchill, "their finest hour", 17. william faulkner, "nobel prize acceptance speech", 18. dwight d. eisenhower, "farewell address", 19. marcus tullius cicero, "the first oration against catiline", 20. ronald reagan, "remarks at the brandenburg gate", 21. pericles, "funeral oration", 22. general douglas macarthur, "farewell address to congress", 23. theodore roosevelt, "strength and decency", 24. abraham lincoln, "2nd inaugural address", 25. patrick henry, "give me liberty or give me death", 26. ronald reagan, "40th anniversary of d-day".

• 27. John F. Kennedy, "The Decision to Go to the Moon"

28. Frederick Douglass, "What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?"

29. general douglas macarthur, "duty, honor, country", 30. theodore roosevelt, "citizenship in a republic", 31. winston churchill, "blood, sweat, and tears", 32. franklin delano roosevelt, "pearl harbor address to the nation", 33. jesus christ, "the sermon on the mount", 34. martin luther king jr., "i have a dream", 35. abraham lincoln, "the gettysburg address", 1. theodore roosevelt,  “duties of american citizenship”.

January 26, 1883; Buffalo , New York

Given while serving as a New York assemblyman, TR's address on the "Duties of American Citizenship" delved into both the theoretical reasons why every man should be involved in politics and the practical means of serving in that capacity. Roosevelt chided those who excused themselves from politics because they were too busy; it was every man's duty to devote some time to maintaining good government.

Worthy Excerpt:

Of course, in one sense, the first essential for a man's being a good citizen is his possession of the home virtues of which we think when we call a man by the emphatic adjective of manly. No man can be a good citizen who is not a good husband and a good father, who is not honest in his dealings with other men and women, faithful to his friends and fearless in the presence of his foes, who has not got a sound heart, a sound mind, and a sound body; exactly as no amount of attention to civil duties will save a nation if the domestic life is undermined, or there is lack of the rude military virtues which alone can assure a country's position in the world. In a free republic the ideal citizen must be one willing and able to take arms for the defense of the flag, exactly as the ideal citizen must be the father of many healthy children. A race must be strong and vigorous; it must be a race of good fighters and good breeders, else its wisdom will come to naught and its virtue be ineffective; and no sweetness and delicacy, no love for and appreciation of beauty in art or literature, no capacity for building up material prosperity can possibly atone for the lack of the great virile virtues. But this is aside from my subject, for what I wish to talk of is the attitude of the American citizen in civic life. It ought to be axiomatic in this country that every man must devote a reasonable share of his time to doing his duty in the Political life of the community. No man has a right to shirk his political duties under whatever plea of pleasure or business; and while such shirking may be pardoned in those of small cleans it is entirely unpardonable in those among whom it is most common--in the people whose circumstances give them freedom in the struggle for life. In so far as the community grows to think rightly, it will likewise grow to regard the young man of means who shirks his duty to the State in time of peace as being only one degree worse than the man who thus shirks it in time of war. A great many of our men in business, or of our young men who are bent on enjoying life (as they have a perfect right to do if only they do not sacrifice other things to enjoyment), rather plume themselves upon being good citizens if they even vote; yet voting is the very least of their duties, Nothing worth gaining is ever gained without effort. You can no more have freedom without striving and suffering for it than you can win success as a banker or a lawyer without labor and effort, without self-denial in youth and the display of a ready and alert intelligence in middle age. The people who say that they have not time to attend to politics are simply saying that they are unfit to live in a free community.

Read full text of speech here .

2. Winston Churchill,  “We Shall Fight on the Beaches”

June 4, 1940 ; House of Commons, London

Winston Churchill, one of the greatest orators of the 20th century, was interestingly enough, like Demosthenes and other great orators before him, born with a speech impediment which he worked on until it no longer hindered him. One would never guess this from hearing Churchill's strong and reassuring voice, a voice that would buoy up Britain during some of her darkest hours.

During the Battle of France, Allied Forces became cut off from troops south of the German penetration and perilously trapped at the Dunkirk bridgehead. On May 26, a wholesale evacuation of these troops, dubbed "Operation Dynamo," began. The evacuation was an amazing effort-the RAF kept the Luftwaffe at bay while thousands of ships, from military destroyers to small fishing boats, were used to ferry 338,000 French and British troops to safety, far more than anyone had thought possible. On June 4, Churchill spoke before the House of Commons, giving a report which celebrated the "miraculous deliverance" at Dunkirk, while also seeking to temper a too rosy of view of what was on the whole a "colossal military disaster."

I have, myself, full confidence that if all do their duty, if nothing is neglected, and if the best arrangements are made, as they are being made, we shall prove ourselves once again able to defend our Island home, to ride out the storm of war, and to outlive the menace of tyranny, if necessary for years, if necessary alone. At any rate, that is what we are going to try to do. That is the resolve of His Majesty's Government-every man of them. That is the will of Parliament and the nation. The British Empire and the French Republic, linked together in their cause and in their need, will defend to the death their native soil, aiding each other like good comrades to the utmost of their strength. Even though large tracts of Europe and many old and famous States have fallen or may fall into the grip of the Gestapo and all the odious apparatus of Nazi rule, we shall not flag or fail. We shall go on to the end, we shall fight in France, we shall fight on the seas and oceans, we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air, we shall defend our Island, whatever the cost may be, we shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets, we shall fight in the hills; we shall never surrender, and even if, which I do not for a moment believe, this Island or a large part of it were subjugated and starving, then our Empire beyond the seas, armed and guarded by the British Fleet, would carry on the struggle, until, in God's good time, the New World, with all its power and might, steps forth to the rescue and the liberation of the old.

Check out my podcast with Churchill biographer Andrew Roberts .

3. Lou Gehrig, “Farewell to Baseball Address”

July 4, 1939; Yankee Stadium

It seemed as if the luminous career of Lou Gehrig would go on forever. The Yankee's first baseman and prodigious slugger was nicknamed the Iron Horse for his durability and commitment to the game. Sadly, his record for suiting up for 2,130 consecutive games came to an end when at age 36, Gehrig was stricken with the crippling disease that now bears his name. On July 4, 1939, the Yankees held a ceremony to honor their teammate and friend. They retired Gehrig's number, spoke of his greatness, and presented him with various gifts, plaques, and trophies. When Gehrig finally addressed the crowd, he did not use the opportunity to wallow in pity. Instead, he spoke of the things he was grateful for and what a lucky guy he was.

Fans, for the past two weeks you have been reading about a bad break I got. Yet today I consider myself the luckiest man on the face of the earth. I have been in ballparks for seventeen years and have never received anything but kindness and encouragement from you fans. Look at these grand men. Which of you wouldn't consider it the highlight of his career to associate with them for even one day? Sure, I'm lucky. Who wouldn't consider it an honor to have known Jacob Ruppert - also the builder of baseball's greatest empire, Ed Barrow - to have spent the next nine years with that wonderful little fellow Miller Huggins - then to have spent the next nine years with that outstanding leader, that smart student of psychology - the best manager in baseball today, Joe McCarthy! Sure, I'm lucky. When the New York Giants, a team you would give your right arm to beat, and vice versa, sends you a gift, that's something! When everybody down to the groundskeepers and those boys in white coats remember you with trophies, that's something. When you have a wonderful mother-in-law who takes sides with you in squabbles against her own daughter, that's something. When you have a father and mother who work all their lives so that you can have an education and build your body, it's a blessing! When you have a wife who has been a tower of strength and shown more courage than you dreamed existed, that's the finest I know. So I close in saying that I might have had a tough break - but I have an awful lot to live for!

4. Demosthenes,  “The Third Philippic”

342 B.C.; Athens, Greece

Demosthenes, master statesman and orator, loved his city-state of Athens. He cherished its way of life and abundant freedoms. And he believed in standing strong against anyone who might attempt to infringe on these privileges. This passion, unfortunately, was seldom shared by his fellow Athenians. While Philip the II of Macedon made bolder and bolder incursions into the Greek peninsula, the Athenian people seemed stuck in an apathetic stupor. For years, Demosthenes employed his powerful oratorical skills in attempts to awaken his fellow citizens from sleep to the realization of the imminent danger Philip posed. When Philip advanced on Thrace, the Athenians called an assembly to debate whether or not to finally heed the great orator's advice. Demosthenes was sick of his brethren taking liberty and the Athenian way of life for granted and he boldly called upon them to rise up and take action. After his rousing speech, the assembly all cried out, "To arms! To arms!"

It is this fate, I solemnly assure you, that I dread for you, when the time comes that you make your reckoning, and realize that there is no longer anything that can be done. May you never find yourselves, men of Athens, in such a position! Yet in any case, it were better to die ten thousand deaths, than to do anything out of servility towards Philip [or to sacrifice any of those who speak for your good]. A noble recompense did the people in Oreus receive, for entrusting themselves to Philip's friends, and thrusting Euphraeus aside! And a noble recompense the democracy of Eretria, for driving away your envoys, and surrendering to Cleitarchus! They are slaves, scourged and butchered! A noble clemency did he show to the Olynthians, who elected Lasthenes to command the cavalry, and banished Apollonides! It is folly, and it is cowardice, to cherish hopes like these, to give way to evil counsels, to refuse to do anything that you should do, to listen to the advocates of the enemy's cause, and to fancy that you dwell in so great a city that, whatever happens, you will not suffer any harm.

5. Chief Joseph, “Surrender Speech”

October 5, 1877; Montana Territory

In 1877, the military announced that the Chief Joseph and his tribe of Nez Perce had to move onto a reservation in Idaho or face retribution. Desiring to avoid violence, Chief Joseph advocated peace and cooperation. But fellow tribesmen dissented and killed four white men. Knowing a swift backlash was coming, Joseph and his people began to make their way to Canada, hoping to find amnesty there. The tribe traveled 1700 miles, fighting the pursuing US army along the way. In dire conditions, and after a five day battle, Chief Joseph surrendered to General Nelson A. Miles on Oct. 5, 1877 in the Bear Paw Mountains of Montana Territory, a mere 40 miles from the Canadian border. The Chief knew he was the last of a dying breed, and the moment of surrender was heartbreaking.

Tell General Howard I know his heart. What he told me before, I have it in my heart. I am tired of fighting. Our Chiefs are killed; Looking Glass is dead, Ta Hool Hool Shute is dead. The old men are all dead. It is the young men who say yes or no. He who led on the young men is dead. It is cold, and we have no blankets; the little children are freezing to death. My people, some of them, have run away to the hills, and have no blankets, no food. No one knows where they are - perhaps freezing to death. I want to have time to look for my children, and see how many of them I can find. Maybe I shall find them among the dead. Hear me, my Chiefs! I am tired; my heart is sick and sad. From where the sun now stands I will fight no more forever.

6. John F. Kennedy,  “Inauguration Address”

January 20, 1961; Washington, D.C.

Young, handsome, with a glamorous family in tow, John F. Kennedy embodied the fresh optimism that had marked the post-war decade. On January 20, 1961, Kennedy took the oath of office as the 35th President of the United States. The youngest president in United States history, he was the first man born in the 20th century to hold that office. Listening to his inaugural address, the nation felt that a new era and a "new frontier" were being ushered in.

Can we forge against these enemies a grand and global alliance, North and South, East and West, that can assure a more fruitful life for all mankind? Will you join in that historic effort? In the long history of the world, only a few generations have been granted the role of defending freedom in its hour of maximum danger. I do not shrink from this responsibility -- I welcome it. I do not believe that any of us would exchange places with any other people or any other generation. The energy, the faith, the devotion which we bring to this endeavor will light our country and all who serve it -- and the glow from that fire can truly light the world. And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you -- ask what you can do for your country. My fellow citizens of the world: ask not what America will do for you, but what together we can do for the freedom of man.

Listen to the speech.

January 28, 1986; Washington, D.C.

On January 28, 1986, millions of Americans, many of them schoolchildren watching from their classroom desks, tuned in to see 7 Americans, including Christa McAuliffe, a 37 year old schoolteacher and the first ever "civilian astronaut," lift off in the space shuttle Challenger. Just 73 seconds later, the shuttle was consumed in a fireball. All seven aboard perished. These were the first deaths of American astronauts while in flight, and the nation was shocked and heartbroken by the tragedy. Just a few hours after the disaster, President Ronald Reagan took to the radio and airwaves, honoring these "pioneers" and offering comfort and assurance to a rattled people.

We've grown used to wonders in this century. It's hard to dazzle us. But for 25 years the United States space program has been doing just that. We've grown used to the idea of space, and perhaps we forget that we've only just begun. We're still pioneers. They, the members of the Challenger crew, were pioneers. And I want to say something to the school children of America who were watching the live coverage of the shuttle's takeoff. I know it is hard to understand, but sometimes painful things like this happen. It's all part of the process of exploration and discovery. It's all part of taking a chance and expanding man's horizons. The future doesn't belong to the fainthearted; it belongs to the brave. The Challenger crew was pulling us into the future, and we'll continue to follow them...... The crew of the space shuttle Challenger honoured us by the manner in which they lived their lives. We will never forget them, nor the last time we saw them, this morning, as they prepared for the journey and waved goodbye and 'slipped the surly bonds of earth' to 'touch the face of God.'

Check out our podcast with Ronald Regan biographer Bob Sptiz.

326 B.C.; Hydaspes River, India

In 335 B.C., Alexander the Great began his campaign to recapture former Greek cities and to expand his empire. After ten years of undefeated battles, Alexander controlled an empire that included Greece, Egypt, and what had been the massive Persian Empire.

That wasn't enough for Xander. He decided to continue his conquest into India. But after ten years of fighting and being away from home, his men lacked the will to take part in another battle, especially against an opponent like King Porus and his army. Alexander used the talent for oration he had developed while studying under Aristotle to infuse his men with the motivation they needed to continue on, to fight and to win.

I could not have blamed you for being the first to lose heart if I, your commander, had not shared in your exhausting marches and your perilous campaigns; it would have been natural enough if you had done all the work merely for others to reap the reward. But it is not so. You and I, gentlemen, have shared the labour and shared the danger, and the rewards are for us all. The conquered territory belongs to you; from your ranks the governors of it are chosen; already the greater part of its treasure passes into your hands, and when all Asia is overrun, then indeed I will go further than the mere satisfaction of our ambitions: the utmost hopes of riches or power which each one of you cherishes will be far surpassed, and whoever wishes to return home will be allowed to go, either with me or without me. I will make those who stay the envy of those who return.

Check out the AoM podcast about the life of Alexander the Great.

May 12, 1789; House of Commons, London

When William Wilberforce, a member of the British Parliament, converted to Christianity, he began to earnestly seek to reform the evils he found within himself and the world around him. One of the glaring moral issues of the day was slavery, and after reading up on the subject and meeting with anti-slavery activists, Wilberforce became convinced that God was calling him to be an abolitionist. Wilberforce decided to concentrate on ending the slave trade rather than slavery itself, reasoning that the abolition of one would logically lead to the demise of the other. On May 12, 1789, Wilberforce made his first speech on the abolition of the slave trade before the House of Commons. He passionately made his case for why the trade was reprehensible and needed to cease. Wilberforce introduced a bill to abolish the trade, but it failed, a result he would become quite familiar with in the ensuing years. Yet Wilberforce never gave up, reintroducing the bill year after year, and the Slave Trade Act was finally passed in 1807.

When I consider the magnitude of the subject which I am to bring before the House-a subject, in which the interests, not of this country, nor of Europe alone, but of the whole world, and of posterity, are involved: and when I think, at the same time, on the weakness of the advocate who has undertaken this great cause-when these reflections press upon my mind, it is impossible for me not to feel both terrified and concerned at my own inadequacy to such a task. But when I reflect, however, on the encouragement which I have had, through the whole course of a long and laborious examination of this question, and how much candour I have experienced, and how conviction has increased within my own mind, in proportion as I have advanced in my labours;-when I reflect, especially, that however averse any gentleman may now be, yet we shall all be of one opinion in the end;-when I turn myself to these thoughts, I take courage-I determine to forget all my other fears, and I march forward with a firmer step in the full assurance that my cause will bear me out, and that I shall be able to justify upon the clearest principles, every resolution in my hand, the avowed end of which is, the total abolition of the slave trade.

April 14, 1906; Washington, D.C.

Theodore Roosevelt was president during the Progressive Era, a time of great enthusiasm for reform in government, the economy, and society. TR himself held many progressive ideals, but he also called for moderation, not extremism. The "Man with a Muck-rake" in Pilgrim's Progress never looked heavenward but instead constantly raked the filth at his feet. TR thus dubbed the journalists and activists of the day who were intent on exposing the corruption in society as "muckrakers." He felt that they did a tremendous amount of good, but needed to mitigate their constant pessimism and alarmist tone. He worried that the sensationalism with which these exposes were often presented would make citizens overly cynical and too prone to throw out the baby with the bathwater.

To assail the great and admitted evils of our political and industrial life with such crude and sweeping generalizations as to include decent men in the general condemnation means the searing of the public conscience. There results a general attitude either of cynical belief in and indifference to public corruption or else of a distrustful inability to discriminate between the good and the bad. Either attitude is fraught with untold damage to the country as a whole. The fool who has not sense to discriminate between what is good and what is bad is well-nigh as dangerous as the man who does discriminate and yet chooses the bad. There is nothing more distressing to every good patriot, to every good American, than the hard, scoffing spirit which treats the allegation of dishonesty in a public man as a cause for laughter. Such laughter is worse than the crackling of thorns under a pot, for it denotes not merely the vacant mind, but the heart in which high emotions have been choked before they could grow to fruition.

March 4, 1933; Washington, D.C.

Franklin Delano Roosevelt handily beat incumbent Herbert Hoover in the 1932 presidential election. The country was deep into the Great Depression, and the public felt that Hoover did not fully sympathize with their plight and was not doing enough to alleviate it. No one was quite clear on what FDR's plan was, but as in today's election season, "change" was enough of an idea to power a campaign. In his First Inaugural Address, Roosevelt sought to buoy up the injured psyche of the American people and present his case for why he would need broad executive powers to tackle the Depression.

I am certain that my fellow Americans expect that on my induction into the Presidency I will address them with a candor and a decision which the present situation of our Nation impels. This is preeminently the time to speak the truth, the whole truth, frankly and boldly. Nor need we shrink from honestly facing conditions in our country today. This great Nation will endure as it has endured, will revive and will prosper. So, first of all, let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself-nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance. In every dark hour of our national life a leadership of frankness and vigor has met with that understanding and support of the people themselves which is essential to victory. I am convinced that you will again give that support to leadership in these critical days.

Read the full text here .

June 18, 1940; London

In June of 1940, it was clear that France was losing their country to the German invasion. Refusing to sign an armistice, Prime Minister Paul Reynaud was forced to resign. He was succeeded by Marshal Philippe Petain who made clear his intention to seek an accommodation with Germany. Disgusted with this decision, General Charles de Gaulle, leader of the Free French Forces, escaped to England on June 15. De Gaulle asked for, and obtained permission from Winston Churchill to make a speech on BBC radio. De Gaulle exhorted the French to not give up hope and to continue the fight against the German occupation and the Vichy Regime.

But has the last word been said? Must hope disappear? Is defeat final? No! Believe me, I who am speaking to you with full knowledge of the facts, and who tell you that nothing is lost for France. The same means that overcame us can bring us victory one day. For France is not alone! She is not alone! She is not alone! She has a vast Empire behind her. She can align with the British Empire that holds the sea and continues the fight. She can, like England, use without limit the immense industry of the United States. This war is not limited to the unfortunate territory of our country. This war is not over as a result of the Battle of France. This war is a worldwide war. All the mistakes, all the delays, all the suffering, do not alter the fact that there are, in the world, all the means necessary to crush our enemies one day. Vanquished today by mechanical force, in the future we will be able to overcome by a superior mechanical force. The fate of the world depends on it.

399 B.C.; Athens

Socrates is perhaps the greatest teacher in the history of the Western world. He wandered around Athens engaging in dialogues with his fellow citizens that focused on discovering the truth of all things . He taught his pupils that the "unexamined life is not worth living."

The Athenians saw Socrates as a threat, especially to the Athenian youth. Socrates acquired quite a following among the young men of Athens. He taught these impressionable minds to question everything, even Athenian authority. Eventually, Socrates was arrested and put on trial for corrupting the youth, not believing the gods, and creating new deities.

The "Apology" is Socrates' defense to these charges. Instead of crying and pleading for mercy, Socrates accepts his charges and attempts to persuade the jury with reason. He argued that it was his calling from the gods to seek knowledge and that it was through his questions he uncovered truth. To not fulfill his calling would be blasphemy. In the end, Socrates lost and was sentenced to death by hemlock. Socrates accepted this fate willingly and without grudge against his condemners, thus dying as a martyr for free thinking.

Some one will say: Yes, Socrates, but cannot you hold your tongue, and then you may go into a foreign city, and no one will interfere with you? Now I have great difficulty in making you understand my answer to this. For if I tell you that to do as you say would be a disobedience to the God, and therefore that I cannot hold my tongue, you will not believe that I am serious; and if I say again that daily to discourse about virtue, and of those other things about which you hear me examining myself and others, is the greatest good of man, and that the unexamined life is not worth living, you are still less likely to believe me.

Check out our article on the philosophy of Plato . 

December 23, 1784; Annapolis, Maryland

As the Revolutionary War drew to a close, there was much speculation that George Washington, then Major General and Commander-in-Chief, would follow in the footsteps of former world leaders by making a grab for supreme power. Some even wished he would do so, hoping he would become the king of a new nation. Yet Washington knew that such a move would wither the fragile beginnings of the new republic. Looking to the Roman general Cincinnatus an exemplar, Washington rejected the temptations of power and resigned his position as Commander-in-Chief. Choosing the right is almost never easy, and as Washington read his speech in front of the Continental Congress, the great statesman trembled so much that he had to hold the parchment with two hands to keep it steady. "The spectators all wept, and there was hardly a member of Congress who did not drop tears. His voice faltered and sunk, and the whole house felt his agitations." When finished, Washington bolted from the door of the Annapolis State House, mounted his horse, and galloped away into the sunset.

While I repeat my obligations to the Army in general, I should do injustice to my own feelings not to acknowledge in this place the peculiar Services and distinguished merits of the Gentlemen who have been attached to my person during the War. It was impossible the choice of confidential Officers to compose my family should have been more fortunate. Permit me Sir, to recommend in particular those, who have continued in Service to the present moment, as worthy of the favorable notice and patronage of Congress. I consider it an indispensable duty to close this last solemn act of my Official life, by commending the Interests of our dearest Country to the protection of Almighty God, and those who have the superintendence of them, to his holy keeping. Having now finished the work assigned me, I retire from the great theater of Action; and bidding an Affectionate farewell to this August body under whose orders I have so long acted, I here offer my Commission, and take my leave of all the employments of public life.

Check out my podcast about the self-education of George Washington.

August 8, 1942; India

While the battle for freedom and democracy raged across the world, the people of India were engaged in their own fight for liberty. For almost a century, India had been under the direct rule of the British crown, and many Indians had had enough. Mahatma Gandhi and the National Indian Congress pushed for a completely non-violent movement aimed at forcing Britain to "Quit India." Gandhi, pioneer of the tactics of non-violent civil disobedience, called for their use on August 8, 1942 with the passing of the Quit India Resolution demanding complete independence from British rule.

I believe that in the history of the world, there has not been a more genuinely democratic struggle for freedom than ours. I read Carlyle's French Resolution while I was in prison, and Pandit Jawaharlal has told me something about the Russian revolution. But it is my conviction that inasmuch as these struggles were fought with the weapon of violence they failed to realize the democratic ideal. In the democracy which I have envisaged, a democracy established by non-violence, there will be equal freedom for all. Everybody will be his own master. It is to join a struggle for such democracy that I invite you today. Once you realize this you will forget the differences between the Hindus and Muslims, and think of yourselves as Indians only, engaged in the common struggle for independence.

June 18, 1940; House of Commons, London

On May 10, 1940, the Germans began their invasion of France. On June 14 Paris fell. In a matter of days, France would surrender and England would stand as Europe's lone bulwark against the twin evils of Fascism and Nazism. At this critical moment, Churchill gave his third and final speech during the Battle of France, once again imparting words meant to bring hope in this dark hour.

What General Weygand called the Battle of France is over. I expect that the Battle of Britain is about to begin. Upon this battle depends the survival of Christian civilization. Upon it depends our own British life, and the long continuity of our institutions and our Empire. The whole fury and might of the enemy must very soon be turned on us. Hitler knows that he will have to break us in this Island or lose the war. If we can stand up to him, all Europe may be free and the life of the world may move forward into broad, sunlit uplands. But if we fail, then the whole world, including the United States, including all that we have known and cared for, will sink into the abyss of a new Dark Age made more sinister, and perhaps more protracted, by the lights of perverted science. Let us therefore brace ourselves to our duties, and so bear ourselves that if the British Empire and its Commonwealth last for a thousand years, men will still say, 'This was their finest hour.'

Check out my podcast about how Churchill led during the Blitz.

December 10, 1950; Stockholm, Sweden

A true master of the written word, William Faulkner did not often make public his gift for the spoken variety. So there was some interest as to what he would say when accepting the Nobel Peace Prize for his "powerful and artistically unique contribution to the modern American novel." The year was 1950, the Soviet Union had tapped the potential of the atomic bomb, and the atmosphere in the the United States crackled with the fear of them using it. Faulkner challenged poets, authors, and all mankind to think beyond the questions of "When will I be blown up?" and instead continue to "create out of the materials of the human spirit something which did not exist before."

I decline to accept the end of man. It is easy enough to say that man is immortal because he will endure: that when the last ding-dong of doom has clanged and faded from the last worthless rock hanging tideless in the last red and dying evening, that even then there will still be one more sound: that of his puny inexhaustible voice, still talking. I refuse to accept this. I believe that man will not merely endure: he will prevail. He is immortal, not because he alone among creatures has an inexhaustible voice, but because he has a soul, a spirit capable of compassion and sacrifice and endurance. The poet's, the writer's, duty is to write about these things. It is his privilege to help man endure by lifting his heart, by reminding him of the courage and honor and hope and pride and compassion and pity and sacrifice which have been the glory of his past. The poet's voice need not merely be the record of man, it can be one of the props, the pillars to help him endure and prevail.

January 17, 1961; Washington, D.C.

The 1950's were a time of ever increasing military spending, as the United States sought to fight communism abroad and prevent it at home. As President Dwight D. Eisenhower left office, more than half of the federal budget was allocated for defense purposes. Eisenhower, former General of the Army, was certainly not opposed to the use of military power to keep the peace. Still, he saw fit to use his "Farewell Address" to warn the nation of the dangers posed by the "military-industrial complex," referring to the relationship between the armed forces, the government, and the suppliers of war materials. Eisenhower was wary of the large role defense spending played in the economy, and understood the political and corporate corruption that could result if the public was not vigilant in checking it.

In the councils of government, we must guard against the acquisition of unwarranted influence, whether sought or unsought, by the military-industrial complex . The potential for the disastrous rise of misplaced power exists and will persist. We must never let the weight of this combination endanger our liberties or democratic processes. We should take nothing for granted. Only an alert and knowledgeable citizenry can compel the proper meshing of the huge industrial and military machinery of defense with our peaceful methods and goals, so that security and liberty may prosper together.

63 BC; Rome

Lucius Sergius Catilina (Catiline to his friends) was a very jealous man. Having once run against Cicero for the position of consul and lost, he became determined to win the next election by any devious method necessary. Plan A was to bribe people to vote for him, and when that didn't work, he decided to go for bust and simply knock Cicero off on election day. This plan was ferreted out by the ever vigilant Cicero, the election was postponed, and the Senate established marital law. When the election finally was held, the murderer-cum-candidate was surprisingly trounced at the polls. Now it was time for Catiline's Plan C: raise an army of co-conspirators, create insurrection throughout Italy, overthrow the government, and slice and dice as many Senators as they could get their coo -ky hands on. But Cicero was again one step ahead and discovered the plan. He called the Senate together for a meeting at the Temple of Jupiter in the Capitol, an orifice only used in times of great crisis. Catiline, who seriously didn't know when he was not welcome, decided to crash the party. With his archenemy in attendance, Cicero began his Catiline Orations, a series of speeches covering how he saved Rome from rebellion, the guilt of Catiline, and the need to whack he and his cronies.

I wish, O conscript fathers, to be merciful; I wish not to appear negligent amid such danger to the state; but I do now accuse myself of remissness and culpable inactivity. A camp is pitched in Italy, at the entrance of Etruria, in hostility to the republic; the number of the enemy increases every day; and yet the general of that camp, the leader of those enemies, we see within the walls-aye, and even in the senate-planning every day some internal injury to the republic. If, O Catiline, I should now order you to be arrested, to be put to death, I should, I suppose, have to fear lest all good men should say that I had acted tardily, rather than that any one should affirm that I acted cruelly. But yet this, which ought to have been done long since, I have good reason for not doing as yet; I will put you to death, then, when there shall be not one person possible to be found so wicked, so abandoned, so like yourself, as not to allow that it has been rightly done. As long as one person exists who can dare to defend you, you shall live; but you shall live as you do now, surrounded by my many and trusty guards, so that you shall not be able to stir one finger against the republic; many eyes and ears shall still observe and watch you, as they have hitherto done, tho you shall not perceive them.

June 12, 1987; Brandenburg Gate, Berlin

Since the end of World War II, Germany had been a divided country, the West free and democratic, the East under authoritarian communist control. When President Reagan took office, he was committed not only to uniting that country, but to bringing down the entire "Evil Empire." While the importance of Reagan's role in successfully doing so is endlessly debated, it beyond dispute that he exerted some influence in bringing the Cold War to an end. There is no more memorable and symbolic moment of this influence then when Reagan stood at the Berlin wall, the most visible symbol of the "Iron Curtain," and challenged Gorbachev to "tear down this wall!"

We welcome change and openness; for we believe that freedom and security go together, that the advance of human liberty can only strengthen the cause of world peace. There is one sign the Soviets can make that would be unmistakable, that would advance dramatically the cause of freedom and peace. General Secretary Gorbachev, if you seek peace, if you seek prosperity for the Soviet Union and eastern Europe, if you seek liberalization, come here to this gate. Mr. Gorbachev, open this gate. Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!

Listen to speech.

431 BC; Athens

Pericles, master statesman, orator, and general, was truly, as Thuciydies dubbed him, "the first citizen of Athens." Pericles was a product of the Sophists and had been personally tutored by the great philosopher Anaxagoras. His study with the Sophists made Pericles a highly persuasive orator. Through his speeches, he galvanized Athenians to undertake an enormous public works project that created hundreds of temples, including the Pantheon.

Pericles' gift of oration was put to the test during the epic battles of the Peloponnesian War, a civil war between Athens and Sparta. His speeches inspired Athenians to fight to become the number one power in Greece. In February of 431 B.C., Athens had their annual public funeral to honor all those who died in war. Pericles was asked to give the traditional funeral oration. Rather than focus his speech on enumerating the conquests of Athens' fallen heroes, Pericles instead used his funeral oration to laud the glory of Athens itself and inspire the living to make sure the soldiers had not died in vain.

Over 2,000 years later, Pericles' funeral oration inspired Abraham Lincoln's "Gettysburg Address." Like Pericles, Lincoln was a leader during a time of civil war. Like Pericles, Lincoln focused on exhorting the living to live their lives in a way that would make the sacrifice of fallen warriors worthwhile.

So died these men as became Athenians. You, their survivors, must determine to have as unfaltering a resolution in the field, though you may pray that it may have a happier issue. And not contented with ideas derived only from words of the advantages which are bound up with the defense of your country, though these would furnish a valuable text to a speaker even before an audience so alive to them as the present, you must yourselves realize the power of Athens, and feed your eyes upon her from day to day, till love of her fills your hearts; and then, when all her greatness shall break upon you, you must reflect that it was by courage, sense of duty, and a keen feeling of honor in action that men were enabled to win all this, and that no personal failure in an enterprise could make them consent to deprive their country of their valor, but they laid it at her feet as the most glorious contribution that they could offer.

April 19, 1951, Washington; D.C.

During the Korean War, General MacArthur and President Truman clashed over the threat posed by the Chinese People's Liberation Army and their incursion into Korea. MacArthur continually pressed Truman for permission to bomb bases in Manchuria, believing the war needed to be extended in area and scope. Truman refused the General's requests, arguing that directly drawing China into the war would arouse the Soviet Union to action. MacArthur continued to press his case, and Truman, accusing the General of insubordination, made the decision to relieve MacArthur of his command. After serving for 52 years and in three wars, the General's military career was over. MacArthur returned to the United States and gave this farewell address to Congress.

I am closing my 52 years of military service. When I joined the Army, even before the turn of the century, it was the fulfillment of all of my boyish hopes and dreams. The world has turned over many times since I took the oath on theplain at West Point, and the hopes and dreams have long since vanished, but I still remember the refrain of one of the most popular barrack ballads of that day which proclaimed most proudly that "old soldiers never die; they just fade away." And like the old soldier of that ballad, I now close my military career and just fade away, an old soldier who tried to do his duty as God gave him the light to see that duty. Good Bye.

Roosevelt was an advocate of having many children and making sure the next generation would continue to uphold the great virtues of civilization. He was always concerned that young men not be coddled or cowardly, and grow up to live rugged, strenuous, and thoroughly manly lives. But he also strongly believed that being ruggedly manly and being refined in mind and spirit were not incompatible and should in fact go hand and hand. In this speech, he exhorts young men to pursue virtuous manliness. Amen, brother, amen.

It is peculiarly incumbent upon you who have strength to set a right example to others. I ask you to remember that you cannot retain your self-respect if you are loose and foul of tongue, that a man who is to lead a clean and honorable life must inevitably suffer if his speech likewise is not clean and honorable. Every man here knows the temptations that beset all of us in this world. At times any man will slip. I do not expect perfection, but I do expect genuine and sincere effort toward being decent and cleanly in thought, in word, and in deed. As I said at the outset, I hail the work of this society as typifying one of those forces which tend to the betterment and uplifting of our social system. Our whole effort should be toward securing a combination of the strong qualities with those qualities which we term virtues. I expect you to be strong. I would not respect you if you were not. I do not want to see Christianity professed only by weaklings; I want to see it a moving spirit among men of strength. I do not expect you to lose one particle of your strength or courage by being decent. On the contrary, I should hope to see each man who is a member of this society, from his membership in it become all the fitter to do the rough work of the world; all the fitter to work in time of peace; and if, which may Heaven forfend, war should come, all the fitter to fight in time of war. I desire to see in this country the decent men strong and the strong men decent, and until we get that combination in pretty good shape we are not going to be by any means as successful as we should be. There is always a tendency among very young men and among boys who are not quite young men as yet to think that to be wicked is rather smart; to think it shows that they are men. Oh, how often you see some young fellow who boasts that he is going to "see life," meaning by that that he is going to see that part of life which it is a thousandfold better should remain unseen!

March 4, 1865; Washington, D.C.

The Union's victory was but a month away as Abraham Lincoln began his second term as president of a bitterly ruptured United States. Like the Gettysburg Address, Lincoln keeps this speech only as long as needful. While there are those who still debate whether the Civil War was truly fought over slavery or not, Lincoln certainly believed so. To him, slavery was a great national sin, and the blood shed during the war was the atoning sacrifice for that evil.

He does not relish the prospect of coming victory; instead, he appeals to his countrymen to remember that the war was truly fought between brothers. When the war was over and the Confederacy forced to return to the Union, Lincoln was prepared to treat the South with relative leniency. He did not believe secession was truly possible, and thus the South had never truly left the Union. Reconstruction would not mean vengeance, but the return home of a terribly errant son.

Fondly do we hope, fervently do we pray, that this mighty scourge of war may speedily pass away. Yet, if God wills that it continue until all the wealth piled by the bondsman's two hundred and fifty years of unrequited toil shall be sunk, and until every drop of blood drawn with the lash shall be paid by another drawn with the sword, as was said three thousand years ago, so still it must be said "the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether." With malice toward none, with charity for all, with firmness in the right as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in, to bind up the nation's wounds, to care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan, to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace among ourselves and with all nations.

March 23, 1775; Richmond , VA

For a decade, revolutionary sentiments had been brewing in Virginia and Patrick Henry had always been in the thick of it, stirring the pot. Henry became particularly enflamed by the Stamp Act of 1764, which prompted him to give his so-called "treason speech," spurring the Burgesses to pass the Virginia Resolves banning the act. Tensions between the colonies and the Crown continued to build, and in 1775, Massachusetts patriots began making preparations for war. Henry believed that Virginia should follow suit. At a meeting held in St. John's Church in Richmond, Henry presented resolutions to make ready Virginia's defenses. Seeking to persuade his fellow delegates of the urgency of his message, he gave a rousing and memorable speech, climaxing is that now famous line, "Give me liberty of give me death!"

The battle, sir, is not to the strong alone; it is to the vigilant, the active, the brave. Besides, sir, we have no election. If we were base enough to desire it, it is now too late to retire from the contest. There is no retreat but in submission and slavery! Our chains are forged! Their clanking may be heard on the plains of Boston! The war is inevitable -- and let it come! I repeat it, sir, let it come! It is in vain, sir, to extenuate the matter. Gentlemen may cry, "Peace! Peace!" -- but there is no peace. The war is actually begun! The next gale that sweeps from the north will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms! Our brethren are already in the field! Why stand we here idle? What is it that gentlemen wish? What would they have? Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty, or give me death!

June 6, 1984; Pointe du Hoc, France

What the Army Rangers did on D-Day at Pointe Du Hoc is a tale every man worth his salt should be familiar with. Pointe du Hoc was a sheer 100 foot cliff located in-between Omaha and Utah beaches. Perched atop the cliff sat six casemates capable of being manned, armed, and taking out the men on the beaches. As the Germans fired upon them, the Rangers scaled the cliff using ropes and ladders, found the guns (which had been moved from the casemates) and destroyed them. Without reinforcements for two days, the Rangers alone held their position and fended off German counterattacks. These skirmishes proved deadly; only 90 of the original 225 Ranger landing force survived.

On the 40 th anniversary of D-Day, President Reagan gave a moving tribute to these men, many of whom were present at the occasion.

These are the boys of Pointe du Hoc. These are the men who took the cliffs. These are the champions who helped free a continent. These are the heroes who helped end a war. Gentlemen, I look at you and I think of the words of Stephen Spender's poem. You are men who in your 'lives fought for life...and left the vivid air signed with your honor'... Forty summers have passed since the battle that you fought here. You were young the day you took these cliffs; some of you were hardly more than boys, with the deepest joys of life before you. Yet you risked everything here. Why? Why did you do it? What impelled you to put aside the instinct for self-preservation and risk your lives to take these cliffs? What inspired all the men of the armies that met here? We look at you, and somehow we know the answer. It was faith, and belief; it was loyalty and love. The men of Normandy had faith that what they were doing was right, faith that they fought for all humanity, faith that a just God would grant them mercy on this beachhead or on the next. It was the deep knowledge -- and pray God we have not lost it -- that there is a profound moral difference between the use of force for liberation and the use of force for conquest. You were here to liberate, not to conquer, and so you and those others did not doubt your cause. And you were right not to doubt.

27. John F. Kennedy, " The Decision to Go to the Moon"

May 25, 1961; Houston, TX

On April 12, 1961, the Soviets launched the first man into space. Khrushchev used this triumph as prime evidence of communism's superiority over decadent capitalism. Embarrassed, the United States feared it was falling behind the Soviet Union and losing the "space race." After consulting with political and NASA officials, Kennedy decided it was time for America to boldly go where no man had gone before by putting a man on the moon. The feat would not only catapult the nation over the Soviet Union, but also allow man to more fully explore the mysteries of space. And this mission would be accomplished by the end of the 1960's. When was the last time a president had the cajones to publicly issue a straightforward, ambitious goal and set a timeline for its success?

There is no strife, no prejudice, no national conflict in outer space as yet. Its hazards are hostile to us all. Its conquest deserves the best of all mankind, and its opportunity for peaceful cooperation many never come again. But why, some say, the moon? Why choose this as our goal? And they may well ask why climb the highest mountain? Why, 35 years ago, fly the Atlantic? Why does Rice play Texas? We choose to go to the moon. We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard, because that goal will serve to organize and measure the best of our energies and skills, because that challenge is one that we are willing to accept, one we are unwilling to postpone, and one which we intend to win, and the others, too.

July 5, 1852; Rochester, NY

Frederick Douglass, former slave, abolitionist, and engineer on the underground railroad, was a popular speaker on the anti-slavery circuit. He traveled thousands of miles each year, giving hundreds of speeches. Yet the money he earned from lecturing was not enough to become financially comfortable, and he and his family struggled. Douglass was disillusioned by the repercussions of the Fugitive Slave Act, and his abolitionist leanings grew more strident and bold. If the citizens of Rochester, New York had expected to be flattered by Douglass when they asked him to speak on the Fourth, they were soon disavowed of that idea. Douglass took the opportunity to defiantly point out the ripe hypocrisy of a nation celebrating their ideals of freedom and equality while simultaneously mired in the evil of slavery. While the speech surely made even the most liberal audience members squirm; nonetheless, the crowed let loose in "universal applause" when Douglass finished.

I am not included within the pale of this glorious anniversary! Your high independence only reveals the immeasurable distance between us. The blessings in which you this day rejoice are not enjoyed in common. The rich inheritance of justice, liberty, prosperity, and independence bequeathed by your fathers is shared by you, not by me. The sunlight that brought life and healing to you has brought stripes and death to me. This Fourth of July is yours, not mine. Youmay rejoice, I must mourn. To drag a man in fetters into the grand illuminated temple of liberty, and call upon him to join you in joyous anthems, were inhuman mockery and sacrilegious irony. Do you mean, citizens, to mock me, by asking me to speak today?

Read what books had the biggest influence on Frederick Douglass.

May 12, 1962; West Point, New York

General Douglas MacArthur, General of the Army and a man who fought in three wars, knew something of "Duty, Honor, Country." In 1962, MacArthur was in the twilight of his life and came to West Point to accept the Sylvanus Thayer Award and participate in his final cadet roll call. His address reflects upon and celebrates the brave and courageous men who came before, men he personally led, men who embodied "Duty, Honor, Country."

There are many great speeches in this list, but I hope you will pause to read the entirety of this one. Picking an excerpt was quite difficult, as so many of the passages are inspiring. A must read for all men.

You are the leaven which binds together the entire fabric of our national system of defense. From your ranks come the great captains who hold the nation's destiny in their hands the moment the war tocsin sounds. The Long Gray Line has never failed us. Were you to do so, a million ghosts in olive drab, in brown khaki, in blue and gray, would rise from their white crosses thundering those magic words: Duty, Honor, Country . This does not mean that you are war mongers. On the contrary, the soldier, above all other people, prays for peace, for he must suffer and bear the deepest wounds and scars of war. But always in our ears ring the ominous words of Plato, that wisest of all philosophers: "Only the dead have seen the end of war." The shadows are lengthening for me. The twilight is here. My days of old have vanished, tone and tint. They have gone glimmering through the dreams of things that were. Their memory is one of wondrous beauty, watered by tears, and coaxed and caressed by the smiles of yesterday. I listen vainly, but with thirsty ears, for the witching melody of faint bugles blowing reveille, of far drums beating the long roll. In my dreams I hear again the crash of guns, the rattle of musketry, the strange, mournful mutter of the battlefield. But in the evening of my memory, always I come back to West Point. Always there echoes and re-echoes: Duty, Honor, Country .

April 23, 1910; Paris , France

At the end of Theodore Roosevelt's second term in office, he set out to tour Africa and Europe, hoping to allow his successor, President Taft, to step into the enormous shoes TR had left and become his own man. After a safari in Africa, he traveled throughout Europe. While in France, he was invited to speak at the historic University of Paris. Roosevelt used the opportunity to deliver a powerful address on the requirements of citizenship, the characteristics which would keep democracies like France and the United States robust and strong. This speech is famous for the "man in the arena" quote, but the entire speech is an absolute must read.

Let the man of learning, the man of lettered leisure, beware of that queer and cheap temptation to pose to himself and to others as a cynic, as the man who has outgrown emotions and beliefs, the man to whom good and evil are as one. The poorest way to face life is to face it with a sneer. There are many men who feel a kind of twister pride in cynicism; there are many who confine themselves to criticism of the way others do what they themselves dare not even attempt. There is no more unhealthy being, no man less worthy of respect, than he who either really holds, or feigns to hold, an attitude of sneering disbelief toward all that is great and lofty, whether in achievement or in that noble effort which, even if it fails, comes to second achievement. A cynical habit of thought and speech, a readiness to criticise work which the critic himself never tries to perform, an intellectual aloofness which will not accept contact with life's realities - all these are marks, not as the possessor would fain to think, of superiority but of weakness. They mark the men unfit to bear their part painfully in the stern strife of living, who seek, in the affection of contempt for the achievements of others, to hide from others and from themselves in their own weakness. The rôle is easy; there is none easier, save only the rôle of the man who sneers alike at both criticism and performance. It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.

May 13, 1940; House of Commons, London

Winston Churchill's first speech to the House of Commons as Britain's new Prime Minister got off to an auspicious start. His welcome to that assembly was quite tepid, while outgoing PM Neville Chamberlain was enthusiastically applauded (the world did not yet know just how disastrous his appeasement policies would prove and did not trust Churchill). But Churchill's first speech, the first of three powerful oratories he gave during the Battle of France, would prove that England was in more than capable hands. A seemingly unstoppable Hitler was advancing rapidly across Europe, and Churchill wasted no time in calling his people to arms. While TR had actually been the first to utter the phrase, "blood, sweat and tears," it was Churchill's use of these words that would leave an inedible and inspiring impression upon the world's mind.

Worthy Excerpt

I say to the House as I said to ministers who have joined this government, I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears, and sweat. We have before us an ordeal of the most grievous kind. We have before us many, many months of struggle and suffering. You ask, what is our policy? I say it is to wage war by land, sea, and air. War with all our might and with all the strength God has given us, and to wage war against a monstrous tyranny never surpassed in the dark and lamentable catalogue of human crime. That is our policy. You ask, what is our aim? I can answer in one word. It is victory. Victory at all costs - Victory in spite of all terrors - Victory, however long and hard the road may be, for without victory there is no survival.

December 8, 1941; Washington, D.C.

The attack on Pearl Harbor, December 7, 1941, shocked the United States to its core, outraging a nation that had hoped to stay out of the mounting turmoil in Asia and Europe. Overnight, the country united in desire to enter the war. The day after the attacks, FDR addressed the nation in a brief, but electrifying speech, declaring war on Japan and giving assurance that the United States would attain victory.

Be sure to listen to the audio of the speech. Imagine every American family, rattled and worried, listening around the radio to what their president would say. They knew their whole world was about to change forever. Listen to the reaction of Congress as they applaud and cheer FDR's words. The emotion is so very real and palatable; it truly transports you back to that critical moment in time.

Mr. Vice President, Mr. Speaker, members of the Senate and the House of Representatives: yesterday, December 7, 1941- a date which will live in infamy -the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan..... But always will our whole nation remember the character of the onslaught against us. No matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory. I believe that I interpret the will of the Congress and of the people when I assert that we will not only defend ourselves to the uttermost but will make it very certain that this form of treachery shall never again endanger us. Hostilities exist. There is no blinking at the fact that our people, our territory and our interests are in grave danger. With confidence in our armed forces-with the unbounding determination of our people-we will gain the inevitable triumph-so help us God.

33 A.D.; Jerusalem

Whether one believes that Jesus of Nazareth was the Son of God or simply a wise teacher, it is impossible to deny the impact of perhaps the world's most famous speech: The Sermon on the Mount. No speech has been more pondered, more influential, or more quoted. It introduced a prayer now familiar the world over and uttered in trenches, churches, and bedsides around the globe. It introduced a code of conduct billions of believers have adopted as their lofty, if not not always attainable, goal. While much of the sermon has roots in Jewish law, the advice given in the Beatitudes represented a dramatic and radical departure from the eye for an eye system of justice known in the ancient world. The standards of behavior outlined in the sermon have given believers and non-believers alike plenty to contemplate and discuss in the two thousand years since it was given.

Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

See Matthew Chapter 5-7 for full text.

August 28, 1963; Washington, D.C.

Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream Speech" is hands down one of the greatest, if not the greatest, pieces of oratory in American history. King's charisma, skills in rhetoric, and passion, place him in a league of his own. A century after slavery ended, a century after African-Americans were promised full equality, black children were being hosed down in the streets, spat upon, bused to separate schools, turned away from restaurants, and denied treatment as full human beings. In this midst of this egregious track record, Dr. King voiced a clear, compelling message of hope, a dream that things would not always be as they were, and that a new day was coming.

Many people have seen excerpts of the speech, but a surprisingly number of adults my age I have never sat down and watched the speech in its entirety. I challenge you to do just that. It is just as electrifying and moving today as it was in 1963.

I have a dream that one day down in Alabama, with its vicious racists, with its governor having his lips dripping with the words of interposition and nullification - one day right there in Alabama little black boys and black girls will be able to join hands with little white boys and white girls as sisters and brothers. I have a dream today. I have a dream that one day every valley shall be exalted, and every hill and mountain shall be made low, the rough places will be made plain, and the crooked places will be made straight, and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed and all flesh shall see it together. This is our hope. This is the faith that I go back to the South with. With this faith we will be able to hew out of the mountain of despair a stone of hope. With this faith we will be able to transform the jangling discords of our nation into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood. With this faith we will be able to work together, to pray together, to struggle together, to go to jail together, to stand up for freedom together, knowing that we will be free one day. This will be the day, this will be the day when all of God's children will be able to sing with new meaning "My country 'tis of thee, sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing. Land where my father's died, land of the Pilgrim's pride, from every mountainside, let freedom ring!"

Listen to the speech here .

November 19, 1863; Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

272 words. 3 minutes long. Yet, the Gettysburg Address is unarguably one of the greatest pieces of rhetoric in American history. Dr. J Rufus Fears (one of the great modern orators) argues that the Gettysburg Address, along with the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence, form the three founding documents of American freedom. And I have to agree.

The Battle of Gettysburg left 8,000 men dead. The bodies were too numerous to bury properly and many were at first placed in shallow graves. Weeks after the battle, heads and arms were sticking up through the ground and the smell of rotting flesh was sickening.

Money was raised for a proper reburial, and it was decided that the new cemetery should be dedicated, to sweeten the air of Gettysburg, to solemnize this place of death. As was traditional, a great orator, in this case, Edward Everett, was asked to give a solemn and grand speech as a memorial to the fallen men. Lincoln was asked 2 months later, almost as a causal afterthought. He was to add a few remarks to Everett's, a function much like the man with the ceremonial scissors who cuts the ribbon. Legends has it that Lincoln's remarks were the product of pure inspiration, penned on the back of an envelope on the train chugging its way to the soon-to-be hallowed grounds of Gettysburg.

On the day of the dedication, Everett kept the crowd enthralled for a full two hours. Lincoln got up, gave his speech, and sat down even before the photographer had finished setting up for a picture. There was a long pause before anyone applauded, and then the applause was scattered and polite.

Not everyone immediately realized the magnificence of Lincoln's address. But some did. In a letter to Lincoln, Everett praised the President for his eloquent and concise speech, saying, "I should be glad if I could flatter myself that I came as near to the central idea of the occasion, in two hours, as you did in two minutes."

And of course, in time, we have come to fully appreciate the genius and beauty of the words spoken that day. Dr. Fears argues that Lincoln's address did more than memorialize the fallen soldiers at Gettysburg; it accomplished nothing short of transforming the entire meaning of the Civil War. There were no details of the battle mentioned in the speech, no mentioning of soldier's names, of Gettysburg itself, of the South nor the Union, states rights nor secession. Rather, Lincoln meant the speech to be something far larger, a discourse on the experiment testing whether government can maintain the proposition of equality. At Gettysburg, the Constitution experienced a transformation. The first birth has been tainted by slavery. The men, of both North and South, lying in the graves at Gettysburg had made an atoning sacrifice for this great evil. And the Constitution would be reborn, this time living up to its promises of freedom and equality for all.

Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal. Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battlefield of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this. But in a larger sense, we cannot dedicate - we cannot consecrate - we cannot hallow - this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember, what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us - that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion - that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain - that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom - and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.

Related Posts

30 Famous and Short Inspirational Speeches (5 minutes or less)

• December 13, 2023

This post is all about the best short inspirational speeches.

If you are in need of a quick boost of inspiration and motivation, you will find that in this post. I am one of those people who loves to get motivated. That sounds weird, right?

Well, a lot of people these days tend to give motivation a hard time because they don’t believe that it has lasting effects. In other words, they believe that what’s most important is your own self-discipline, because that’s what you have to rely on when motivation isn’t there.

And while I do agree with that sentiment in general, I will never pass up a great motivational podcast or YouTube video! 😀 There’s just something about them that even if they might not have lasting effects, they do truly help pump me up in the moment to get work done. And that’s usually what matters to me the most when I am looking for them in the first place.

So, here are the very best short motivational speeches so you can get that quick fix of motivation that you’re looking for, and ultimately move closer to your goals and dreams.

Short Inspirational Speeches

Believe in yourself speeches.

If you lack confidence or you are doubting yourself, these short motivational speeches will help you to believe in yourself again.

1. Rocky’s Inspirational Speech to His Son | ROCKY BALBOA

In less than 5 minutes, you’ll watch Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone) explain to his son that if he wants to have the life he desires, he needs to believe in himself. He needs to stop listening to the people that tell him who he is, and instead go be his own person, and stop looking for someone to blame when things aren’t working out for him because ultimately it’s on HIM. This is one of the greatest inspirational speeches of all time.

2. Find Your Purpose | David Goggins – Motivational Speech

David Goggins is truly incredible. A former Navy SEAL, he has broken records and ran more races than you’d imagine. But the one thing that really stands out about him is his mindset.

Listen to this video if you want to be great. He tells you exactly what you need to do to get there.

Also, if you’ve never read David Goggins’ book “Can’t Hurt Me” , I highly recommend it. He talks about his rough upbringing, and how he was able to essentially become an entirely new person to become a Navy SEAL.

3. BELIEVE IN YOURSELF – Motivational Video (ft. Jaret Grossman & Eric Thomas)

This video is all about how important it is to have the proper belief system. If you truly believe that you are one of the best, you will start acting that you are one of the best, and eventually you may just be one of the best.

4. DON’T LET YOUR DREAMS DIE – Motivational Speech

This YouTube short by Mel Robbins is so good, I had to share it. A light bulb went on in my head when I first watched this. If there is something that is always on your mind, don’t let it haunt you forever because you never put yourself out there to try it. Go and DO!

Motivational Speeches About Not Giving Up

The following short motivational speeches are all about not giving up on your dreams. If you are losing hope, these short motivational speeches will inspire you to keep going.

5. Brené Brown It’s Not The Critic Who Counts

This speech will give you chills, and it is packed with great lessons about life. Brené Brown is a researcher who went viral for a Ted Talk, and here she talks about how to overcome critics and to keep believing in yourself no matter what. If you are worried about what people think of you, you NEED to watch this.

6. Amazing Motivational Speech by Denzel Washington 

This is another video that gave me chills. The main theme of this famous speech is “ease is a greater threat to progress than hardship”. Stay consistent even when it’s hard. Easy task after easy task won’t get you to where you want to be.

7. Steve Harvey – Inspirational Speech | Motivational Short Video | Incredible You

This short motivational speech by Steve Harvey is short but impactful. If you are someone who stepped out of your comfort zone to pursue something really difficult, and you’re thinking about giving up, this speech may just prevent you from doing so.

8. Ed Mylett on The Power of One More

Ed Mylett shares the story of how his father stayed sober until his dying day, and how Ed himself uses that same philosophy to never give up. Personal stories like these are always the most inspiring.

By the way, if you REALLY want to push yourself and become the best, read Ed Mylett’s most recent book on this same topic, “The Power Of One More” .

Motivational Speeches If You’re Feeling Behind

Are you feeling behind in life? If so, let’s change that. Watch these videos to be reminded that you are on your own unique path. You have no competition other than your past self. These short motivational videos will help you believe that.

9. Before You Feel Pressure – WATCH THIS | by Jay Shetty

Jay Shetty talks to a school class about how there’s no one “perfect” life timeline to follow, and that we are all on our own clock. 

10. Kevin Hart Motivational Speech

If you’ve made mistakes in your life (haven’t we all) this is a great story from Kevin Hart (famous comedian and actor) that will remind you of the power of making mistakes and pushing through hard times.

11. Oprah Winfrey | 5 Minutes For The NEXT 50 Years of Your LIFE

In this video, Oprah talks about the importance of really knowing who you are and what you want in your life. She talks about surrounding yourself with great people, and how to have enormous success. “Let excellence be your brand.”

Listen To These If You Need Perspective

Sometimes in life, we get so caught up in the day to day that we forget what truly matters – the people we love. If you are having trouble with something in life, give these videos a listen, because they just might help you realize what is really important.

12. Arnold Schwarzenegger – Organize Your Day | 1 MINUTE MOTIVATIONAL VIDEO

Are you the kind of person who always complains that you don’t have enough time to do something? If so, you’re not alone. We are all busy humans, running around doing a million things. But if you aren’t prioritizing what you know you should be doing, listen to this video.

13. How to Judge Your Life Using 3 Simple Questions | Brendon Burchard Speech| Goalcast

Have you ever heard of Mortality Motivation? It’s essentially what it sounds like… being motivated by the impending reality of your death. It sounds a little morbid, but it’s actually quite beautiful and it can be really beneficial if you harness it for good.

In this video by motivational speaker Brendon Burchard, he shares how a car accident when he was 19 gave him mortality motivation and changed everything for him.

14. FALL, SUFFER AND LEARN | MOTIVATIONAL SPEECH BY OPRAH WINFREY

This speech by Oprah was given to Harvard graduates, and it’s a unique speech because she talks about failing, even after the major success of her television show for over 20 years.

It’s refreshing to hear that even the most successful people fail. What really matters, though, is what you do with your failure. Do you learn from it and move on? Or do you give up?

15. YOU VS YOU – Best Motivational Video

This is a pretty intense video about competition. If your #1 competition is someone else, you need to change your perspective. Your only competition is YOU. The only thing preventing you from moving forward is you.

16. The Speech That Brought This Entire School To Tears

This is a speech about a man who never really paid much attention to his mother, until she passed away. It’s an emotional reminder to cherish the time you have with your loved ones, because you never know if the next time you see them will be the last time.

In my opinion, this speaker embodies many qualities of the best motivational speakers because he really knows how to capture the audience’s attention and pull on their heart strings.

17. 5 Minutes to Start Your Day Right! – MORNING MOTIVATION

This motivational speech is by a Navy SEAL who will remind you to start each day with a task completed, respect everyone, take risks, step up during tough times, and never give up. If you do these things, the next generation, and the generations that follow, will live better lives than we live today.

18. The Real You – Jim Carrey

This video is one of the best motivational speech examples because it reminds you of something so important: sometimes we can be so focused on earning more money, gaining fame, and becoming admired that we lose ourselves or we lose sight of what’s really important to us in the process.

Jim Carrey talks about how he is a great example of that. He got all of the money, fame, and admiration, and admits that that wasn’t really who he was. Sometimes it’s nice to be reminded that money and fame, or even getting to the top of the corporate ladder, while nice, aren’t going to be the thing that brings you fulfillment when it’s all said and done.

19. Ed Mylett Motivational Speech

I posted another motivational video by Ed Mylett above, but if you don’t know much about him, prepare to have your world rocked. He’s probably my absolute favorite motivational speaker because he is successful and he works hard, but he’s also (seemingly) a kind, family guy who’s been through a few things.

In this video, he talks about being “the one” that changed his family tree. Take a listen because I’m sure it’ll get you thinking on whether or not you can be “the one” in YOUR family.

P.S. If you love personal growth content, you should check out Ed Mylett’s podcast . I listen to it every week and it is one of my favorites.

20. If You Feel LOST, LAZY & UNMOTIVATED In Life, WATCH THIS! | Tony Robbins Motivation

If you are someone who is constantly blaming others or your circumstances for your unhappiness, you need to listen to this video by Tony Robbins . Bad things happen to us all, it’s up to you to focus on what you can control.

Great Inspirational Speeches About Hard Work

How hard do you think you work? Could you be doing more? If there’s a little voice inside of your heart that knows you could be doing more and better, these motivational videos about the value of hard work will help you push yourself.

And a side note: your chances of having good luck increase the harder and longer you work.

21. You’re Not Tired, You’re Just Weak – David Goggins Motivation

If you’re feeling lazy or like you don’t want to do something, watch this video til 2:25 . It will give you the push you need to put your head down and do the work. It’ll remind you to keep pursuing your goals and to keep challenging yourself. Key takeaway: push yourself beyond your perceived limits.

22. Hard Work & Patience – A Gary Vaynerchuk Original Film

If you want to be motivated to work hard, listen to Gary Vaynerchuk. Gary Vaynerchuk is a creative genius known for his marketing tactics. This famous motivational speech is all about playing “the long game”, as in, working for a long time and having patience instead of working hard for a short period of time and expecting to win quickly.

23. OBSESSION – Best Motivational Speech

This is one of my favorite short motivational speeches because it makes me feel a little more normal for being “weird”. I’m the kind of person who chooses to work on the weekends instead of hanging out with people. Crazy, right? But it’s because I’m working toward a dream of mine and it’s something that’s really important to me. The most important thing to remember: it’s okay to devote yourself to something. It’s the only way to get what you want in life.

24. WORK LIKE HELL – Best Motivational Video

This is a series of motivational speeches about doing a little bit more and outworking your competition. I’m not going to lie – I’m up late writing this post and listening to this very video is what’s motivating me to keep going.

25. The video EVERY woman should watch!

Whether or not you’re a Rachel Hollis fan may be up for debate (and that’s okay!) but I happen to think she’s a great motivational speaker. This entire speech will inspire you to work hard and take massive action – today.

26. NEVER SURRENDER – Powerful Motivational Speech (by Kobe Bryant)

This one minute video by the late Kobe Bryant is one of the most famous short speeches. I read a book recently by his former personal trainer and I learned that Kobe really outworked everyone. He talks about a quote in this video that really stuck with him, and I think it’s great advice if you’re the kind of person who needs motivation to keep working hard.

Motivational Speeches About Working Smart

Have you ever heard the saying “work smarter, not harder”? That saying is all about ensuring that the work you are doing is actually efficient. Are you getting to where you want to go with all of the work that you are putting in? Are you getting closer to your goals and your dreams? Or are you sprinting like a hamster on a wheel and just running in circles?

Here are great videos on the importance of working hard but also working intentionally.

27. SET SYSTEMS RATHER THAN GOALS – Motivational Speech – James Clear

A goal gives you a sense of direction, but if you don’t spell out precisely how you are going to get to a goal, it is useless. You must develop systems. Listen to this James Clear video to gain valuable life lessons.

By the way, James Clear is an author who wrote perhaps my favorite book of all time: “Atomic Habits” . It’s life-changing if you haven’t read it yet.

28. Matthew McConaughey | 5 Minutes for the NEXT 50 Years of Your LIFE

This is one of the best motivational speeches of all time about how to live a great life for YOU. It’s filled with little pieces of wisdom that’ll really get you thinking about how you live your life and in what direction you want to go.

29. Visualization is the key – Bob Proctor

Do you believe in the Law of Attraction? If not, I have to say I’m surprised! I’ve experienced it in my own life more than once, and it is incredibly powerful. Here’s a great video that sums up the power of visualization, and if you want to learn more about the Law of Attraction or manifestation in general, read this post .

This video shows the true power of words, thoughts, and feelings that you have.

30. How to Stay Motivated – Carla Harris

Here is a YouTube short with very practical advice from Carla Harris on HOW to stay motivated. It’s all about having a vision!

This post was all about short inspirational speeches. Which one was your favorite?

Related Posts

15+ BEST Blogs About Minimalism and Decluttering

This post is all about the best blogs on minimalism that you will find on the internet.

Top 125 Inspirational Alpha Leader Quotes for Life

Here are the best alpha leader quotes if you are looking to level up your leadership or just become a better all-around person.

44 Inspirational Barbie Movie Quotes & Captions

You have found the best inspirational Barbie quotes in this post, by all your favorite characters from the movie

Join the Imperfect Taylor Newsletter!

Stay in the know! Every week you’ll receive new blog posts that help you on your personal development journey – from mindset & money to health & career – no topic’s off limits.

About Taylor

A few years after graduating college, Taylor made it her mission to become debt free. After paying off all $60k of debt, she began to blog about what she's really passionate about: personal development. Nowadays, Taylor blogs about the topics of Mindset, Money, Health, and Career for women. Read more about Taylor here.

"It's Per$onal" is a super popular and anonymous blog series about the personal lives and finances of women all over the world. Check it out!

If you like this post, you might like these, too!

The 12 Best Law of Attraction Apps for Manifestation

25 Inspiring Quotes: Do Something Today For Future You

Talk to our experts

1800-120-456-456

• Speech About Life

Speech About Life in English for Students

Long speech about life.

‘Good morning everyone’!Today I want to share my opinion about life. So what is life all about? Does life mean to have success or to have money, a great group of friends, or anything? 

To some people, success means to have all the money, to some success means to be with loved ones, to some it could be to live a luxurious life or it could be a wish to get a good life partner.

No matter what the image of success is for anyone. Success can be defined by only one word and that word is “Happiness”.Happiness is the only thing that is linked to success. It is the reason we stress over money, perfect job, good marks, admission to a good university, or trying to live up to the life that would term us as successful 

Life isn’t all about money and happiness cannot be brought with money. We see many cases around the world where people with all the luxurious suffers from depression. Money can only solve your financial problem but not all the problems. You cannot take money with you to the grave so don’t stress about it. So does that mean you should not have money? well, the answer is no. If you have money use it for the good of others and help poor people but never stress about it. Money is great but only when you use it with positive intentions. 

Life is not about being right always, it’s about always been kind. Students should remember that there will come a time in your life when you have to choose between been right or kind. Always choose kindness over being right. Kindness always follows the love with it. 

It is also important to understand that life is not about noticing the negatives. Always try to create positive around the negative that will completely solve the problem. For example, you might be not good at math. so does that mean you should stop reading math? the answer is no. The positive that could be created is to solve more problems which will help you in excelling in that subject. 

Life is not about comparing yourself to others. You have to remember that you are unique and important. It is impossible even for you to find someone who is exactly like you. So never compare yourself with others. Let every else be exactly as they are while you should focus on being the best you can be. 

To conclude I want to say that your life is not defined by any circumstances. Your life is not defined by what happens to you or not. Life is defined by how you react to all the goods and bad. Hard time helps in building a character and never lose your spirit. In the end, what you become through all those life challenges matters the most. Remember that you are a miracle and the world is a blessing. Life is a miracle and it is what you make out of it. Live every day like you are blessed. Be grateful for whatever happens in your life. Be happy no matter what happens in life. Last but not least always remind yourself that the whole purpose of life is to be happy, no matter what life throws at you. 

Short Informative Speech About Life

‘Good morning everyone’!Today I want to share my opinion about life. So what is life all about? Does life mean to have success? and what is success? is it to have money or anything ? and does success differs from one person to another.

The definition of success differs from person to person. For a few, it could be to be rich, to spend time with family, and so on. Success can be defined by only one word and that word is “Happiness”.Happiness is the only thing that is linked to success. It is the reason we stress about money, good marks and so on. 

Life isn’t all about money and happiness cannot be brought with money. There are many cases in which people are depressed even after having money. You won’t be taking money with you to the grave so don’t stress about it. 

Life is not about being right always, it’s about always been kind. Everyone should choose kindness over being right. Show kindness to everyone as love always follows kindness. 

It is also important to understand that life is not about noticing the negatives. Always try to create positive around the negative that will completely solve the problem.

Life is not about comparing yourself to others. You have to remember that you are unique and important. To conclude I want to say that your life is not defined by any circumstances.

Life is defined by how you react to all the goods and bad. Hard time helps in building a character and never lose your spirit. Remember that you are a miracle and the world is a blessing. Life is a miracle and it is what you make out of it. Live every day like you are blessed. Be grateful for whatever happens in your life. Be happy no matter what happens in life. Thank you!.

10 Lines on Speech About Life

Life is not about everyone wrong but it’s about proving yourself right. Always be kind to everyone. Ego kills a man before his death.

Happiness is the only thing that is linked to success. It is the reason we stress over money, perfect job, etc. 

Life isn’t all about money and happiness cannot be brought with money. There are many cases in which people are depressed even after having money. 

Life is not about money. You cannot take it with you to the grave so don’t ever stress about it. 

Life is not about being right always, it’s about always been kind. Always show kindness to every soul you meet. Kindness is followed by love so spread love. 

Life is not about comparing yourself to others. You have to remember that you are unique and important.

Your life is not defined by what happens to you or not. Life is defined by how you react to all the goods and bad.

Life is a miracle and it is what you make out of it. Live every day like you are blessed. Be grateful for whatever happens in your life

The whole purpose of life is to be happy, no matter what life throws at you. 

Student Essays

14 Best Written Speeches on Life [ Lessons, Challenges, Gift, Beautiful ]

The life is a precious gift of God. It has to be filled with true meaning and purpose. The life is joy, wonder, achievements, love, care and happiness. Also it can be the trail of ups and downs somewhere! Therefore, whatever the life or its circumstances are, one should really appreciate life.

We have written following Speeches on Life, that describe, meaning, purpose & importance of life with quotes & images. These short and long, 1,2,3,5 minutes Long Speeches are quite helpful for students.

Speech on Life | Motivational Speech about Life & its Importance

Good Morning Friends – How you all are doing? I would like to welcome you all to today’s speech ceremony. The topic has been selected by our committee, that is about Life. Probably many of us have asked ourselves this question from time to time.  This is an eternal question that we all try to answer in our baffling universe. We must ask the question ‘What does life actually mean?’ The truth is that we all deserve a fair and decent job, no matter where we come from, how much we earn, etc.

I believe that life’s true meaning can be summarized in the word Service to others.  Dalai Lama explained to his followers in the following passage the true meaning of life: “We are guests on this planet. We are here for ninety or one hundred years at the very most.

. You must do something good, something useful with your life during that period. Once you are contributing to the happiness of others, you have found the true meaning of life.”

It is inspiring to take inspiration from this philosophy because it offers immense satisfaction to the needy. True joy is found in serving God and humanity, rest is illusory. A life lived for one’s own self-interests is not a life at all. Nevertheless, I would like to say that doing your Karma and fulfilling your roles and responsibilities is important. A person must work hard and achieve goals if they have hefty packages, a great social standing and materialistic desires.

You just have to find the right balance between your own personal desires and acts of philanthropy. We do not expect you to give away all of your fortune to those in need, but we should at least develop empathy and compassion for others. Only then will the world become a safe space to dwell in if we stop continuously treating it as a battlefield and life as a battle in itself. Only then will we be able to share the message of peace and harmony throughout the world. You may not see the meaning of life until this point; you can then retreat, contemplate, and look within yourself. You will find peace and a sense of direction if you repeat this exercise.

Determine what brings you happiness in life and work on achieving it. If there is anything that makes your soul sad, you should get rid of it. With that, I would like to conclude my speech. Find your passion and pursue it; we only live once. Thank you everyone for listening to me patiently!

5 Minutes Speech on Life & its Challenges

I wish you a happy day , dear friends! I will speak today about ‘Life’. You never know what will happen next in life. Everybody wants to have a happy life and to live it to the fullest. Many people aspire to a successful career, a flourishing business, a healthy lifestyle , and so on. The best way to build a family and make friends is to choose those who can stand by you through thick and thin.

Life offers us all sorts of material possessions, but we wish that all our problems would just disappear. We all want a fulfilling life, and this could take many forms. People define their lives in different ways, for example, one person may have 3 course meals every day and another person has just a roof over their head.  It could also be having a large home or a lot of money in a bank.

In the current times, priorities are shifting, as are people’s needs. Due to high-paying jobs and increasing materialistic desires, stress levels are also increasing. People are facing serious medical conditions because of increased levels of stress, making them unable to cope with the challenges life throws their way. In turn, suicide rates and early deaths are on the rise. Therefore, stress-free living is what everyone wishes for. It is the basic human desire.

It cripples the soul when one has to put up with constant struggle and resistance. Such people become detached from life as a result. As a result, they become exhausted and feel as if they are running a marathon continuously. Afterwards, you cannot handle life anymore. Reality and our lives are also shaped by our perception. No matter how hard things may get, those with sheer will power and perseverance overcome challenges and hurdles.

There is absolutely no such thing as a cake walk in life, and it’s quite normal to become discouraged and broken. However, it is important to persevere against all odds and keep doing your best because it is clear that giving up is not an option and constant effort will certainly take you somewhere and take you closer to your goals.

In order to lead a successful life, one must have faith in oneself and never give in to testing situations. Only those who put all their efforts into pursuing their dreams will reap the benefits of their labor. Get into the chaos and embrace it happily. If life is difficult, then prove that you are also difficult and then success will surely touch your feet. This is all I have to say, thank you everyone!

Short One Minute Speech on Life is a Gift

In short, life is the most precious gift that God has given to us, and it’s up to us how we wish to use it. It’s either up to us or it’s down to us based on our actions. As such, it’s a very relevant topic to discuss in school, college, the workplace or in public. We are of course concerned about the recklessness with which our youth are wasting their lives and whiling away their time these days. 

Every single day we should be grateful to God for giving us this life and another day to achieve our goals. There is no one like you, and there never will be, so cherish your uniqueness. It surprises me how often I hear people blame God for things they don’t have and curse their liveliness, but they have no idea how valuable their lives are if they work hard to make them worthwhile.

The value of life comes from this thinking, and it is through the love of family and friends that life can be made beautiful. We also make our lives more beautiful and fulfilling by discharging our duties in our families, at work, in our communities, and in the world at large.

Speech on Life is Beautiful For Students

Good morning everyone – how are you? Let’s make today a special class by not discussing your syllabus or exams, but by discussing a topic everyone can relate to, namely… That’s life.  How do you define life? What does life mean to you?

Every day, we have the opportunity to live a meaningful life and support others in doing so. The length of your life doesn’t matter; the quality of your life matters. I would also like to acknowledge how many lives you have touched through your encouragement and love.

We all live in fear of death. Death is inevitable for everyone, but that doesn’t mean it should stop us from living our lives to the fullest or achieving our goals. The wise person is the one who is prepared to meet the end when it comes, but enjoys every moment until then. It is a feeling of preparedness. To be able to wake up to a life eternal, every individual must go through the bridge of death in their lives.

Even if you don’t believe it, the secret of life is best known by those who are not attached to anything deeply to the extent that they remain untainted by worries or shifting fortunes. Those who measure their lives in terms of people who cannot be lived without, rather than material possessions, are considered to be the real living.

The gift of life, which is given to us by God in the form of trust that we will make it meaningful in whatever way we can, is also about stewardship. As long as we keep this in the back of our minds, we will never forget that we are responsible for the opportunities, the treasures, and the talents he has given us.

This is in line with the teachings of Jesus, who stated, “Man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment.” Likewise, good deeds will definitely be rewarded in this world, and that evil which takes place will be put right.

Al pacino any given Sunday Speech:

Al Pacino’s speech in the movie “Any Given Sunday” is a powerful and inspiring monologue that has become iconic over the years. It is a rallying cry for those who are faced with struggles and adversity, urging them to never give up and always fight for what they believe in.

The speech begins with Pacino’s character, Tony D’Amato, sitting in a locker room surrounded by his football team. He starts off with a quote from the legendary coach Vince Lombardi, “Today, I want to talk to you about being inches.” This sets the tone for the rest of the speech, emphasizing the importance of every little effort and inch towards achieving greatness.

Throughout the speech, Pacino’s character talks about how life is a game of inches, how the margin for error is so small that any little mistake can make all the difference. He goes on to say that in football and in life, we have to fight for every inch, because that’s what ultimately separates the winners from the losers.

But it’s not just about fighting for yourself, as D’Amato says in his speech, “The team with the best individual players will win every time, but the team with the best heart and commitment to each other, that’s who wins when you add up all those inches.” He stresses the importance of teamwork and camaraderie, and how together, we can achieve more than we ever could alone.

Pacino’s character also touches on the subject of fear, and how it can hold us back from reaching our full potential. He encourages his team to face their fears head on, and not let them control or limit their actions.

The most famous line of the speech comes towards the end, when D’Amato declares, “In either game – life or football – the margin for error is so small. I mean one half a step too late or too early and you don’t quite make it. One half second too slow, too fast and you don’t quite catch it.” This line resonates with the audience, as it highlights the fine line between success and failure.

In conclusion, Al Pacino’s “Any Given Sunday” speech is a powerful reminder to never give up, always fight for what we believe in, and to never underestimate the importance of teamwork and perseverance. It’s a testament to the human spirit and our ability to overcome any obstacles that come our way.

So next time you’re faced with adversity, remember D’Amato’s words: “The inches we need are everywhere around us.” So keep fighting for those inches, because they could be the difference between winning and losing, in football and in life. So go out there and give it your all – because every inch counts.

Speeches about Life Lessons:

As humans, we are constantly learning and growing throughout our lives. Along the way, we encounter many experiences that shape us into who we are today. Some of these experiences may be positive while others may be challenging and difficult. However, there is always something to be learned from each and every one of them.

Life lessons can come in various forms – through relationships, career, health, or even from strangers we meet along the way. They are valuable insights that help us navigate through life and make better decisions for ourselves. In this speech, I would like to share with you some of the most important life lessons I have learned throughout my own journey.

Firstly, let’s talk about relationships. Whether it’s romantic, family or friendships, relationships play a key role in our lives. One of the most important lessons I have learned is that communication is the foundation of any healthy relationship. It’s important to express our thoughts and feelings openly and honestly, while also being mindful of how we communicate. This leads me to my next lesson – empathy. Putting yourself in someone else’s shoes allows us to better understand their perspective and truly connect with them. Empathy is a crucial element in building and maintaining meaningful relationships.

Next, let’s dive into career-related life lessons. One of the biggest lessons I have learned is to never stop learning. We live in a constantly evolving world where technology and industries are rapidly changing. In order to stay relevant and be successful in our careers, we must continuously seek knowledge and be adaptable to change. Additionally, it’s important to have a growth mindset – embracing challenges and failures as opportunities for learning and growth.

On the topic of health, I have learned that it is truly our greatest wealth. Without good health, we cannot fully enjoy all the other aspects of our lives. Taking care of ourselves physically, mentally, and emotionally should be a top priority. This includes getting enough rest, exercise, and nourishing our bodies with healthy food.

Lastly, I would like to touch on the importance of being open to learning from others. We often limit ourselves by only seeking knowledge and advice from those who are similar to us or in positions of authority. However, people from different backgrounds and experiences can offer valuable insights that we may not have considered before. Keeping an open mind and being willing to learn from anyone can lead us to new perspectives and opportunities for growth.

In conclusion, life is a continuous journey of learning and growing. Through relationships, career, health, and being open to new experiences, we can gain valuable life lessons that shape us into better individuals.

Motivational Speech for Juniors:

Welcome junior students,

I hope this message finds you well. As we all know, being a junior in high school can be challenging and overwhelming at times. You are caught between the excitement of growing up and the pressure of making important decisions for your future.

But let me tell you something, you are in one of the most exciting phases of your life. This is the time when you get to experience new things, discover your passions, and shape yourself into the person you want to be.

I know it’s not easy. You have to balance schoolwork, extracurricular activities, social life, and family obligations. But let me tell you a secret – the key to success is not just working hard, but also finding joy in what you do.

Yes, it’s important to study and excel in your academics, but don’t forget to make time for the things that truly make you happy. Whether it’s playing a sport, painting, writing, or simply spending time with your loved ones.

You see, life is not just about achieving goals and meeting expectations. It’s about enjoying the journey and finding fulfillment in the little moments. And trust me, those little moments will be the ones that you’ll remember the most.

So my advice to you is this – don’t let anyone else’s expectations define your journey. You have the power to create your own path and live a life that brings you happiness and satisfaction.

And when things get tough, remember that challenges are a part of life. They make us stronger, wiser, and more resilient. So don’t be afraid to take risks, make mistakes, and learn from them.

In the end, it’s not about reaching a certain destination, but rather about who you become along the way. I believe in each and every one of you, and I can’t wait to see the amazing things you’ll accomplish.

So keep your heads up high, and always remember that you are capable, you are talented, and you are destined for greatness. Thank you for listening, and I wish you all the best in your journey ahead. Let’s make it a memorable one!

Speech About Life Goals:

Hello everyone,

I am honored to be standing here today to share my thoughts with you on something that is dear to all of us – life goals. In our fast-paced and ever-changing world, it’s important for us to have a sense of direction and purpose in our lives. Life goals give us this sense of direction and help us stay focused on what truly matters.

Importance of Life Goals

Why are life goals important, you may ask? Well, let me tell you. Having clear and specific life goals helps us prioritize our actions and make better decisions in our daily lives. Without them, we may feel lost or directionless, constantly chasing after the next thing without a clear purpose.

Moreover, life goals give us a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction when we achieve them. They provide a sense of accomplishment and motivate us to keep striving for even greater things in life.

Types of Life Goals

Life goals can vary greatly from person to person, as we all have our own unique desires and aspirations. However, they can generally be categorized into three main types: personal, professional, and social.

Personal goals are focused on self-improvement and can include things like learning a new skill, traveling to a certain destination, or improving personal relationships. Professional goals pertain to our career and can involve things like getting a promotion or starting our own business. Social goals revolve around making a positive impact in the world and can include volunteering, raising awareness for a cause, or helping those in need.

Creating Life Goals

Now that we understand the importance of life goals and the different types, how do we go about creating them? The key is to make sure our goals are SMART – specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. This ensures that our goals are realistic and have a clear plan of action. Additionally, it’s important to regularly review and adjust our goals as we grow and change throughout life.

Overcoming Obstacles

Of course, setting life goals is the easy part – achieving them is where the real challenge lies. Along the way, we may face obstacles that hinder our progress or make us doubt ourselves. But remember, challenges are a natural part of life and they only make us stronger. It’s important to stay resilient and have a positive mindset when facing challenges, as they can often lead us to new opportunities and growth.

In conclusion, life goals are an essential part of our journey in this world. They give us direction, motivation, and a sense of fulfillment. So take the time to reflect on your own personal, professional, and social goals and start working towards them today. Remember to stay focused, persistent, and adaptable, as you never know what amazing things you can achieve when you have a clear purpose in life. Thank you.

Beautiful Speech About Life:

Life, what a beautiful concept. It is truly amazing how we are all given this gift of existence, and yet it is something that can often be taken for granted. We get so caught up in the daily hustle and bustle of life that we forget to stop and appreciate the simple fact that we are alive.

But life isn’t just about existing, it’s about living. It’s about embracing every moment, both the good and the bad, and finding joy in the journey. This is something that can be difficult to remember when faced with challenges or hardships, but it is during these times that we truly learn and grow.

Life also teaches us valuable lessons along the way. We experience love, heartbreak, success, failure, happiness, and sadness. Each of these moments shapes us into who we are and teaches us valuable lessons about ourselves and the world around us.

And let’s not forget about the people in our lives. They are what make life truly beautiful. Our friends, family, partners, and even strangers that we meet along the way all play a role in shaping our journey. We learn from them, we laugh with them, and we share unforgettable moments with them.

So let’s take a moment to appreciate this beautiful gift of life. Let’s cherish each day and make the most out of every moment. Let’s learn from our experiences and the people around us, and let’s never forget to spread love and kindness wherever we go.

Life is truly a precious thing, and we should never take it for granted. Let’s make the most out of this journey, and create a life that we can look back on with no regrets. Thank you for listening to my short speech about life. Now go out there and live it to the fullest!

2 Minutes Speech About Life:

Hello Everyone! Today, I want to take a few minutes to talk about something that is essential to all of us – Life. Life is beautiful and fragile at the same time. It is what makes us human beings. We are born, we grow up, we learn, we experience and eventually one day, we leave this world. But in between those two lines lies the journey of life, and it is what we make of it that truly matters.

As someone who has lived for a few decades now, I have come to understand that life is not easy. It throws challenges at us, makes us face hardships, but most importantly, it gives us opportunities. Opportunities to learn, to grow and to become better versions of ourselves. No matter how many times you may fall, the key is to always get back up and keep moving forward.

Life is all about making choices. Sometimes we choose the right path and sometimes we make mistakes. But every decision that we make shapes our life in one way or another. And that’s what makes it so unpredictable and exciting at the same time. We never know what each day will bring us; but it’s up to us to make the most of it.

One thing that I have learned over the years is that life is not just about our own journey, but also about the people we meet along the way. They become a part of our story and play important roles in shaping who we are. It’s essential to cherish these relationships, nurture them, and be grateful for the people that come into our lives.

Another aspect of life that I want to touch upon is personal growth. Life is a continuous process of learning, and it’s up to us to keep growing through every experience. Whether it’s trying new things, stepping out of our comfort zone or pushing ourselves beyond our limits – these are the moments that define us and make our life worth living.

But amidst all the chaos and hustle of life, it’s essential to take a step back and appreciate the little things. The beauty of nature, laughter of loved ones or simply the joy of being alive – these are the moments that fill our hearts with warmth and make this journey worthwhile.

In conclusion, life is an amazing adventure filled with twists and turns, ups and downs, happiness and sadness. It’s up to us how we navigate through it and make the most of every moment. So let’s embrace this gift of life, learn from our experiences, cherish our relationships and keep growing every day. Thank you!

3 Minutes Speech about Life:

Hello Everyone!

Today, I would like to share a few thoughts on life – the one precious gift that we all have received. As cliché as it may sound, life truly is a blessing. It is what makes us who we are and gives us the opportunity to experience this world in all its beauty.

Life is unpredictable, full of ups and downs, twists and turns. But isn’t that what makes it exciting? The uncertainties, the challenges, and the triumphs – everything adds to the richness of our lives. It is like a rollercoaster ride, with its highs and lows, but we must embrace every moment of it.

One thing we often forget in the hustle and bustle of everyday life is to appreciate the present moment. We are always chasing the future or dwelling in the past, forgetting to live in the present. But let me tell you, life is happening right now, at this very moment. So let’s cherish it and make the most of it.

Life also teaches us valuable lessons – some through hardships and others through joyous moments. It is during these times that we discover our strength, resilience, and the power to overcome any obstacle. So let’s not shy away from challenges, but face them with determination.

Moreover, life is all about connections – the people we meet, the relationships we form, and the memories we create. It is these connections that make our lives meaningful and worth living. So let’s cherish our loved ones and spread love and kindness wherever we go.

In the end, life is a precious gift that we must never take for granted. Let’s make the most of it by being grateful, living in the present, and spreading love and positivity. As the famous quote goes, “Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take but by the moments that take our breath away.” So let’s make every moment count and live our lives to the fullest. Thank you.

Speech about Life in the Future:

Welcome everyone,

Today, I want to talk to you about a topic that has been on my mind for a while now – the future. Specifically, I want to discuss what life could look like in the future, and how we can prepare ourselves for it.

As we all know, the world is constantly changing and evolving. With advancements in technology, medicine, and science, our lives have transformed drastically over the years. Just think about it – smartphones, electric cars, virtual reality – these were only a dream just a few decades ago, and now they are an integral part of our daily lives.

So, what does this mean for the future? Well, it means that our world is going to change even more dramatically in the years to come. And with these changes, we can expect our way of living to be significantly different as well.

One of the biggest changes I foresee is the increased use of technology in our everyday lives. Just look at how much we rely on technology now – from online shopping and banking to social media and communication, it has become deeply ingrained in our routines. And I believe this trend will only continue, with technology becoming even more integrated into every aspect of our lives.

But while this may seem like an exciting and convenient future, there are also concerns about how it will affect our privacy and security. With the rise of automation and artificial intelligence, there is a genuine fear that jobs may become obsolete and humans will be replaced by machines.

However, I believe that with every challenge comes an opportunity. While some jobs may indeed become automated, new career paths in technology and science will emerge, creating possibilities we never thought possible. And with the advancements in medicine, we can also expect to live longer and healthier lives.

But amidst all these changes, one thing will remain constant – us humans. Our values, emotions, and relationships will still be a crucial aspect of our lives. While technology may connect us globally, it is important not to forget the importance of face-to-face interactions and building genuine connections with one another.

So, my message to you today is this – embrace the future with an open mind. Instead of fearing the unknown, let’s prepare ourselves for it by staying informed and adapting to new technologies and lifestyles. And most importantly, let’s not forget the essence of what makes us human – our ability to empathize, connect, and create meaningful relationships.

Speech about Life Experiences:

Life. It’s a journey filled with ups and downs, twists and turns, joy and sorrow. Each one of us has our own unique experiences that shape who we are today. And in this speech, I want to share some of my own life experiences with you.

Growing up, I was always a shy and introverted child. I struggled to make friends and often felt like I didn’t fit in. But as I entered my teenage years, I discovered my passion for music and it helped me come out of my shell. I joined a band and for the first time, I felt like I belonged somewhere.

However, life has a way of throwing unexpected curveballs. During college, I lost my father to a sudden illness. It was a devastating experience that taught me the fragility of life and to cherish every moment with loved ones.

But even in the darkest of times, there is always a glimmer of hope. I found solace in writing and it became my outlet for processing my emotions.

After college, I took a leap of faith and moved to a new city for a job opportunity. It was a scary and exhilarating experience, but it taught me to be independent and resilient.

And most recently, I became a parent. This has been the biggest life experience for me as it has challenged me in ways I never thought possible. But it has also brought immeasurable joy and love into my life.

Life is a journey of continuous growth and learning. And through all the highs and lows, I have come to understand that it’s not about the destination, but rather the lessons and experiences we gain along the way. So embrace your own life experiences, for they are what make you uniquely you. Thank you

Speech about Life after Matric:

Good morning everyone, I hope you all are doing well. Today, I have been given the opportunity to share my thoughts on a topic that is very close to every student’s heart – life after matric.

As we all know, matriculation is an important milestone in our academic journey. It marks the end of our high school years and the beginning of a new chapter in our lives. The thought of leaving behind the familiar surroundings of school and embarking on a new journey can be both exciting and daunting at the same time.

For most of us, this is the first time we will be making important decisions that will shape our future. We are bombarded with questions from family, friends, and even ourselves – What career path should I choose? Which university should I apply to? Should I take a gap year?

But, let me tell you something – it’s okay to not have all the answers right now. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed and unsure about your future. Sometimes, we need to take a step back and evaluate our options before making any decisions.

However, one thing is for sure – life after matric is full of opportunities. It’s a chance for us to explore our interests, discover new passions and pave our own path towards success.

Some of you may choose to further your studies at a university or college, while others may opt for vocational training or enter the workforce directly. No matter which path you choose, it’s important to remember that there is no right or wrong way to go about it.

One of the biggest misconceptions about life after matric is that success can only be measured by academic achievements. But, let me assure you, success comes in many forms and each person’s journey is unique. Don’t let anyone else’s expectations dictate your future.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, life after matric is a time of growth, discovery and endless possibilities. It’s a time to embrace change, learn from our mistakes and make the most out of every opportunity that comes our way. My advice to all of you is to follow your heart, trust in yourself and enjoy this new chapter in your life. Thank you for listening.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. Take the first step today

Meet top uk universities from the comfort of your home, here’s your new year gift, one app for all your, study abroad needs, start your journey, track your progress, grow with the community and so much more.

Verification Code

An OTP has been sent to your registered mobile no. Please verify

Thanks for your comment !

Our team will review it before it's shown to our readers.

• Speech Writing /

Speech on Student Life: Long and Short Speech in English

• Updated on  
• Jun 26, 2024

Student time is fun and full of excitement. There is an entire world out there waiting for you to explore. As students, we learn from books and grow physically, emotionally, and mentally. A student’s life is filled with opportunities to learn, but it also presents challenges to success. In this section, we’ll look at the samples of speech on student life. Continue reading to discover more.

Long Speech on Student Life

Also Read: Speech About Life for Students in English

Short Speech on Student Life

Also Read: Speech on If I Had A Superpower…

Ans: The student’s life is full of opportunities that pave the road for a bright future. It helps them build a strong sense of identity and self-worth, as well as a grasp of their own strengths and areas for improvement.  Schools and institutions that provide exchange programmes, study tours, and online courses also allow students to interact on a global level.  Extracurricular activities help students develop leadership skills, decision-making abilities, and a platform to showcase their innovations and entrepreneurship. 

Ans: A student’s life is filled with challenges that test their resilience and determination. One of the most significant problems in a student’s life is the pressure to succeed academically.  Students strive for good marks despite their fear of failing. This pressure can cause stress and worry, affecting both the student’s mental and physical well-being.  Financial constraints might be a hindrance to student life, which can negatively affect their studies. Students often find it difficult to manage several tasks.  Peer pressure, societal expectations, and a lack of personal commitment can all have an impact on students’ self-esteem and mental health.

Ans: While academics are vital, the essence of student life goes beyond textbooks. Extracurricular activities such as sports, arts, music, and various clubs contribute significantly to overall growth. These activities develop several skills in students, including leadership and teamwork. They allow students to pursue their interests and show their creativity. 

Popular English Speech Topics

For more information on such interesting speech topics for your school, visit our speech writing page and follow Leverage Edu .

Bhumika Sharma

A writer with a fresh perspective on thoughts, I have an year of experience in writing the blogs on various topics. Here, you will find my blogs for the students and education purpose.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Contact no. *

Connect With Us

45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. take the first step today..

Resend OTP in

Need help with?

Study abroad.

UK, Canada, US & More

IELTS, GRE, GMAT & More

Scholarship, Loans & Forex

Country Preference

New Zealand

Which English test are you planning to take?

Which academic test are you planning to take.

Not Sure yet

When are you planning to take the exam?

Already booked my exam slot

Within 2 Months

Want to learn about the test

Which Degree do you wish to pursue?

When do you want to start studying abroad.

January 2024

September 2024

What is your budget to study abroad?

How would you describe this article ?

Please rate this article

We would like to hear more.

Have something on your mind?

Make your study abroad dream a reality in January 2022 with

India's Biggest Virtual University Fair

Essex Direct Admission Day

Why attend .

Don't Miss Out

Speeches > Dale G. Renlund > Lifelong Conversion

Lifelong Conversion

Dale g. renlund.

Member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

September 14, 2021

Enduring to the end is not a separate step in the doctrine of Christ—as though we complete the first four steps and then hunker down, grit our teeth, and wait to die. No, enduring to the end is actively and intentionally repeating the steps in the doctrine of Christ.

My dear brothers and sisters, thank you for being here, early in the semester and for some of you the beginning of your university experience. Thank you for taking the time to be here. I am grateful for President Kevin J Worthen and for the remarkable things he does. I have looked up to him for a long time.

I am grateful to Sister Kaytie Kerr for her beautiful music and for the Spirit that it brought. I am also grateful for Brother Jonathan Tshibanda for his wonderful invocation. I think it is eight years ago in Lubumbashi in DR Congo that late one Saturday night Elder Kevin S. Hamilton and I went to the Tshibanda home and extended a call to Jonathan’s father to be a stake president. The Tshibandas are just an extraordinary family. I am grateful now to be with you again.

In the April general conference leadership meetings, Sister Joy D. Jones, then the Primary general president, led a discussion with children. Let us learn from the interview with young Sister Charlotte Nance:

[Sister Jones:] “I want to know, What do you remember about your baptism?”

[Sister Nance:] “I felt really, really happy, because, well, I just got baptized. Now I could keep being happy and be a member of the Church and get a testimony and, as some would say, live happily ever after, but it’s not that simple.”

[Sister Jones:] “Is there a little bit of work involved?”

[Sister Nance:] “Uh-huh.”

Let me say what we all pray for: that we will live happily ever after. But, as we learned from Sister Nance and Sister Jones, it is not that simple, and there is a little bit of work involved.

What can we do to “live happily ever after”? The road to eternal happiness depends on lifelong conversion to the truths of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. Lifelong conversion means that we endure to the end, remaining firm in our commitment to keep the covenants we have made with God—no matter what. Such a commitment cannot be conditional or dependent upon the circumstances in our lives.

Cycling Through the Elements of the Doctrine of Christ

The best way to become a lifelong convert is to engage with the doctrine of Christ. 1 The doctrine of Christ—faith in the Savior and His Atonement, repentance, baptism, and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost 2 —is not intended as a one-time event. We are invited to get on the covenant path, stay on the covenant path, and participate in the ­doctrine’s specified elements.

We endure to the end by repeatedly and iteratively “relying wholly upon” the doctrine and “merits” of Christ. 3 “Repeatedly” means that we cycle through the elements in the doctrine of Christ throughout our lives. “Iteratively” means that we change and improve with each cycle. Even though we cycle repeatedly, we are not spinning in circles like on a merry-go-round without upward motion. If that were the case, the experience would be dizzying and unproductive. Instead, as we cycle through the elements of the doctrine of Christ, we arrive at a higher plane each time. This ascent provides new vistas and perspectives and brings us closer to the Savior. And we eventually return to the presence of our Heavenly Father as an heir to all that He has. 4

The best way to picture this process is to imagine a long road ascending a mountain peak. If you view this road from a high altitude, all you see is a flat spiral. However, if you view the road from the side, you see an ascending spiral. If you start at the bottom, you will trace a circle around the mountain. As you continue, you spiral upward so that the course you travel becomes helical. Mathematically, it might be called an irregular conical helix.

Each element in the doctrine of Christ builds on the preceding step—repentance builds on faith, baptism on repentance, and the gift of the Holy Ghost on baptism—and then the sequence recurs. Each cycle ends progressively higher, so the subsequent cycle is higher and different. In this way the doctrine of Christ is iterative. Cycling iteratively through the elements of the doctrine of Christ enables us to endure to the end.

Enduring to the end is not a separate step in the doctrine of Christ—as though we complete the first four steps and then hunker down, grit our teeth, and wait to die. No, enduring to the end is actively and intentionally repeating the steps in the doctrine of Christ. Thus, the doctrine of Christ becomes central to the purpose of life, as stated in “The Restoration of the Fulness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ: A Bicentennial Proclamation to the World.” 5

For those of us who have been baptized, how can the step of baptism be repeated? Well, it is through the sacrament. The covenants of baptism are renewed by partaking of the sacrament in remembrance of our Savior and His atoning sacrifice, and the blessings of baptism are also renewed. 6 Partaking of the sacrament is the next ordinance everyone needs after being confirmed a member of the Church. The sacrament is the next ordinance needed at the beginning, middle, or end of a semester at BYU. The sacrament is the next ordinance needed after triumphantly passing a test or being miserably disappointed with the result. The sacrament is the next ordinance needed after receiving the endowment or being sealed in the temple. The sacrament is the next ordinance needed after making a good choice and the next ordinance needed after making a poor choice. The sacrament is the next ordinance needed every week for the rest of our lives.

President Dallin H. Oaks taught:

We are commanded to repent of our sins and to come to the Lord with a broken heart and a contrite spirit and partake of the sacrament. . . . We witness that we are willing to take upon us the name of Jesus Christ and always remember Him and keep His commandments. When we comply with this covenant, the Lord renews the cleansing effect of our baptism. We are made clean and can always have His Spirit to be with us. 7

When we worthily partake of the sacrament, we qualify for the cleansing power of Jesus Christ. 8 But, a word of caution: we cannot willfully sin Saturday night and expect to be miraculously forgiven by taking a piece of bread or drinking a little water on Sunday. Preplanned repentance is offensive to God. 9

The sacrament does not replace baptism, but it provides the link between the initial steps in the doctrine of Christ—faith and repentance—and the later step of receiving the Holy Ghost. In the cycle, it serves a similar function as does baptism. This allows for the elements in the doctrine of Christ to be experienced iteratively in our lives.

The sacrament “unlocks the power of God” 10 for you and me. However, we frequently miss out on this power. Before sacrament meeting, we may scurry about, text on our phones, or otherwise be preoccupied. We may enter the meeting late or worry about how someone is reacting to the sacrament service. With these distractions, the blessing of the sacrament is diminished for us.

We should conscientiously prepare for and worthily partake of the sacrament. This preparation should happen in the days leading up to the sacrament meeting. Decide what aspect of the Savior’s mission you are going to think about during the sacrament and perhaps consider one thing you can do to increase your faith, to change in a positive way—which is another way to say repent—and follow the promptings of the Holy Ghost. When the sacrament hymn begins, focus on the Savior and His Atonement. This directs us toward Him and away from ourselves. We should pray to be renewed as we partake of the sacrament and remember Him.

Sacramental covenants are made anew each week. The sacramental prayers indicate that we are willing to take upon ourselves the name of Christ, using the present tense of the verb. 11 The prayers do not use the past tense of the verb, saying that we took or have taken upon ourselves the name of Christ. The promised blessing does not use the past tense either. The promise is that the Holy Ghost will always be with us, not that the Holy Ghost was given or was with us.

After instituting the sacrament among the Nephites, the Savior commanded them to regularly partake of it. He warned them that if they did not, they would

not [be] built upon [His] rock, but [would be] built upon a sandy foundation; and when the rain descends, and the floods come, and the winds blow, and beat upon them, they shall fall. 12

Lifelong conversion requires that we access the Holy Ghost, 13 and we do that by focusing on the sacrament throughout our lives. By iteratively claiming the cleansing effect of baptism through the sacrament, our own personal conversion becomes lifelong.

In the course of my lifetime and because of my chosen profession, I missed many sacrament meetings. I recognized that this was dangerous. So when I knew I was likely to miss a sacrament meeting, I tried to compensate for it. I prayed and studied more. But these things did not adequately compensate for missing the sacrament.

Now, if you know you are going to not be able to sleep for a while, wouldn’t it be nice to practice defensive sleeping, storing that sleep for later? It does not work; I have tried it. Similarly, you cannot adequately compensate for missing the sacrament. When circumstances preclude it, so be it; do the best you can. But to willfully choose to not partake of the sacrament when you could is a spiritual death trap. This seemingly small action jeopardizes things of an eternal nature.

The Trajectory Has to Be Upward

For this repetitive cycle of the doctrine of Christ to be iterative, the trajectory has to be upward. For that to happen, we need to be similarly engaged with the other elements of the doctrine of Christ: faith and repentance.

Choosing to believe in Jesus Christ and the validity of the Restoration of His Church is crucial. 14 Alma encouraged the Zoramites to experiment on the word. But this experiment differs from today’s standard scientific experimental protocol. It begins by choosing and desiring to believe—not with a skeptical or even a neutral bias. It treats Christ’s gospel as a seed, planting it and then acting in faith to nourish it. 15 As the seed grows, not only is faith increased, but we can also know that the seed is good. Let me repeat: we can know that the gospel of Jesus Christ is a good seed. As Alma said:

And now, behold, is your knowledge perfect? Yea, your knowledge is perfect in that thing, and your faith is dormant; and this because you know, for ye know that the word hath swelled your souls, and ye also know that it hath sprouted up, that your understanding doth begin to be enlightened, and your mind doth begin to expand.

O then, is not this real? I say unto you, Yea, because it is light; and whatsoever is light, is good, because it is discernible, therefore ye must know that it is good. 16

There is no better foundation for lifelong conversion than to know that the word, the gospel of Jesus Christ—which is the doctrine of Christ—is good and true. That knowledge prompts us to trust the faith we already have and then to act in faith.

Acting in faith enables faith to grow stronger. 17 When we act in faith by studying “the scriptures to understand better Christ’s mission and ministry,” we come to “know the doctrine of Christ” and to “understand its power” in our lives. 18 We seek to recognize how Jesus Christ, through His Atonement, brings blessings to all aspects of our lives. We act in faith by asking Heavenly Father for help. President Russell M. Nelson said, “Ask, and then ask again,” 19 because God knows what will help faith grow.

Increasing faith in Jesus Christ naturally leads to repetitive and iterative repentance, which leads to eternal progression. 20 Repentance and lifelong conversion go hand in hand. Repentance is not to be feared. Fearing repentance blocks lifelong conversion because it hinders cycling through the elements of the doctrine of Christ.

President Nelson taught, “Repentance is conversion! A repentant soul is a converted soul, and a converted soul is a repentant soul.” 21 President Nelson also warned of thinking of

repentance as punishment—something to be avoided. . . . This feeling of being penalized is engendered by Satan. He tries to block us from looking to Jesus Christ, who stands with open arms, hoping and willing to heal, forgive, cleanse, strengthen, purify, and sanctify us. 22

For those of us with overexpressed guilt genes, we need to remember the following words by Nelson Mandela. He frequently deflected accolades for his role in the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa by saying, “I’m no saint—that is, unless you think a saint is a sinner who keeps on trying.” 23 While we know that we are not perfect, we may be perfected by relying on Jesus Christ. God cares a lot more about who we are and who we are becoming than about who we once were. 24 He cares that we keep on trying.

Augustine of Hippo, a Christian theologian of the late fourth and early fifth centuries, argued that the church is not made up of inherently good people but of people who were in the process of being transformed. From his writings derive the insightful phrase that the church is not a museum of saints but a hospital for sinners.

Engaging with each element of the doctrine of Christ iteratively is vital to lifelong conversion and to becoming who God wants us to be. As we iteratively cycle through the doctrine of Christ, we learn of and develop Christlike attributes. Our faith increases, we become a little better, we are better prepared to partake of the sacrament next Sunday, and the Holy Ghost will have a greater influence in our lives. Our hearts are changed, and “we have no more disposition to do evil, but to do good continually.” 25 We become more outwardly directed and less self-centered. 26 And we can endure to the end. 27

Developing Spiritual Sisu

Let us look at the mountain road again. Note that nowhere on the upwardly spiraling road is it perfectly horizontal; nowhere is the slope zero; there is no plateau; there is no place to pause and rest; and the course either goes up or down. Similarly, faith is either becoming stronger or weaker. 28 Being converted is an ongoing—even a lifelong—process.

That means that you can become “unconverted” at least as easily as you can become “converted.” 29 Your faith and commitment are going to either increase or decrease. The increase depends on your upward movement on the covenant path, cycling through the elements of the doctrine of Christ. The decrease happens if you disengage from the doctrine of Christ.

Imagine driving a powerful sports car with dysfunctional brakes up the mountain road. What happens if you shift the gear into neutral? The powerful engine is disengaged from the drivetrain and wheels. Once the forward momentum stops, does the car remain where it is? No, slowly at first and then faster and faster it goes backward. Revving the powerful engine will do nothing to halt the decline. What a terrifying descent! When you are rolling backward, you navigate or drive using only the rearview mirror.

The Lord has said:

I will give unto the children of men line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little; and blessed are those who hearken unto my precepts, and lend an ear unto my counsel, for they shall learn wisdom; for unto him that receiveth I will give more; and from them that shall say, We have enough, from them shall be taken away even that which they have. 30

As Alma taught:

He that will not harden his heart, to him is given the greater portion of the word, until it is given unto him to know the mysteries of God until he know them in full.

And they that will harden their hearts, to them is given the lesser portion of the word until they know nothing concerning his mysteries; and then they are taken captive by the devil, and led by his will down to destruction. 31

The Lord has warned:

There is a possibility that man may fall from grace and depart from the living God;

Therefore let the church take heed and pray always, lest they fall into temptation;

Yea, and even let those who are sanctified take heed also. 32

Ultimately, whether we remain converted throughout our lifetimes depends on our determination to be engaged with the doctrine of Christ. The type of determination we need can be explained by borrowing a word from the Finnish language. That Finnish word is sisu. It has no good or complete translation in English. Sisu has been described as stoic determination, tenacity of purpose, resilience, and hardiness. Sisu expresses a characteristic that manifests itself in displaying grit, resolve, and courage in the face of extreme adversity or against the odds. Someone with sisu decides on a course of action and then adheres to it—no matter what. 33 Sisu is the type of determination we need to stay on the covenant path. With spiritual sisu, we are committed to conscientiously prepare for and worthily partake of the sacrament every week.

Spiritual sisu is not conditioned on the circumstances in our lives. In the Savior’s parable of the wise and foolish men who built houses, “rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon” both houses; only one stood because the builder listened to and followed the commandments of the Savior. 34 Our continued righteousness does not preclude the occurrence of adversity. Opposition and adversity come to all.

With spiritual sisu, we have settled it in our hearts that we “will do the things which [Jesus Christ] shall teach, and command.” 35 We are spiritually resilient and are better able to withstand challenges without falling or faltering.

With spiritual sisu, we “grow up in” the Lord and seek to “receive a fulness of the Holy Ghost.” 36 Because we choose to take the Holy Ghost as our guide, we are not deceived, and we remain steadfast despite adversity.

Spiritual sisu means that we speedily repent and return to the covenant path when we have transgressed, thereby qualifying for God’s promised blessings. We are “armed with [God’s] power” so “that no combination of wickedness shall have power to . . . prevail over [us].” 37 With spiritual sisu, we engage with the doctrine of Christ and fulfill the covenant to live the law of the gospel that we made in the temple. We will then receive all promised temple blessings.

Brothers and sisters, young Sister Charlotte Nance was right: to live happily ever after is not that simple. But it is also not really that complicated either. As we engage with the doctrine of Christ, we develop spiritual sisu, the spiritual resilience that is essential to lifelong conversion.

I testify of the Savior’s living reality, of His atoning sacrifice, of Heavenly Father and His plan, and of the Restoration of the Lord’s Church in these latter days. I know these things are true. I know that our Heavenly Father lives and that He loves you. He loves us so much that He sent His Son to earth to live and die as the Savior did. Jesus Christ rose the third day and ascended to heaven, and there He claimed from the Father the rights of mercy on our behalf. He has become our advocate with the Father. He is not only our judge, but He is also our advocate. He is advocating what Heavenly Father has wanted all along for you and for me, to return to our heavenly home as a ­co-inheritor with Jesus Christ of all that He, Heavenly Father, has. God bless you, my dear brothers and sisters, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

© by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. 

Notes 1. Just so there is no confusion, the phrase “the doctrine of Christ” means the same as “the gospel of Jesus Christ.” 2. See 2 Nephi 31:2–21 ; 3 Nephi 9:14–22 ; 3 Nephi 11:7–41 ; 3 Nephi 27:1–21 . 3. 2 Nephi 31:19 . 4. See Doctrine and Covenants 14:7 . 5. See “ The Restoration of the Fulness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ: A Bicentennial Proclamation to the World ,” 5 April 2020; introduced in Russell M. Nelson, “ Hear Him ,” Ensign, May 2020. 6. See PMG, 66, 216; see also Gordon B. Hinckley, “ Find the Lambs, Feed the Sheep ,” Ensign, May 1999. 7. Dallin H. Oaks, in “ Special Witnesses of Christ ,” Ensign, April 2001. 8. See Doctrine and Covenants 59:9 . 9. Elder James E. Talmage wrote, “The sacrament has not been established as a specific means of securing remission of sins” ( The Articles of Faith, 12th ed. [Salt Lake City: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1975], 175). See Dallin H. Oaks, “ Sacrament Meeting and the Sacrament ,” Ensign, November 2008; see also Hebrews 10:26–27. 10. Russell M. Nelson, “ Christ Is Risen; Faith in Him Will Move Mountains ,” Liahona, May 2021. 11. See Doctrine and Covenants 20:77 , 79 ; Moroni 4:3 ; 5:2 . 12. 3 Nephi 18:13 ; see also verse 12 . 13. See Spencer W. Kimball, “ First Presidency Message: ‘It Becometh Every Man,’ ” Ensign, October 1977; quoted in TSWK,  570. 14. See Nelson, “ Christ Is Risen .” 15. See Alma 32:27 . 16. Alma 32:34–35 . 17. See Nelson, “ Christ Is Risen .” 18. Nelson, “ Christ Is Risen .” 19. Nelson, “ Christ Is Risen .” 20. See Alma 32:40–43 ; Ether 12:4 , 6 , 12 ; Doctrine and Covenants 63:9–12 . 21. Russell M. Nelson, “ Repentance and Conversion ,” Ensign, May 2007. 22. Russell M. Nelson, “ We Can Do Better and Be Better, ” Ensign, May 2019. See Doctrine and Covenants 6:36 ; see also Deuteronomy 26:8 ; 2 Nephi 1:15 ; Mormon 6:17 ; Doctrine and Covenants 6:20 . 23. See, for instance, Nelson Mandela’s address at Rice University’s Baker Institute on October 26, 1999, bakerinstitute.org/events/1221. He was likely paraphrasing the well-known statement attributed to Robert Louis Stevenson: “The saints are the sinners who keep on trying.” Over the years many have expressed similar sentiments. For instance, Confucius is credited with saying, “Our greatest glory lies not in never falling but in getting up every time we fall.” 24. Saying that God cares a lot more about who we are and who we are becoming than about who we once were does not mean that the Savior is dismissive of the consequences of an individual’s sin on others. In fact, the Savior cares infinitely about those who suffer hurt, pain, and heartache because of another’s transgressions. The Savior “will take upon him [His people’s] infirmities, that his bowels may be filled with mercy, . . . that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people according to their infirmities” ( Alma 7:12 ). 25. Mosiah 5:2 . 26. This outward direction blesses others and manifests our changed hearts. Outward direction is not a checkbox on a to-do list. President Marion G. Romney said, “Service is not something we endure on this earth so we can earn the right to live in the celestial kingdom. Service is the very fiber of which an exalted life in the celestial kingdom is made” (“ The Celestial Nature of Self-Reliance ,” Ensign, November 1982). 27. See, for instance, 2 Nephi 31:2–21 ; 3 Nephi 11:23–31 ; 27:13–21 ; Moroni 4:3 ; 5:2 ; 6:6 ; Doctrine and Covenants 20:77 , 79 ; 59:8–9 . 28. See Neil L. Andersen, “ Faith Is Not by Chance, but by Choice, ” Ensign, November 2015. 29. Harold B. Lee, address to Ricks College student body and student leaders, 3 March 1962; in The Teachings of Harold B. Lee, ed. Clyde J. Williams (Salt Lake City: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2015), 138; quoted in Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Harold B. Lee (2000), 42–43. 30. 2 Nephi 28:30 ; see also Doctrine and Covenants 50:24 . 31. Alma 12:10–11 . 32. Doctrine and Covenants 20:32–34 . 33. The Finnish usage of sisu derives from sisus, which means “entrails.” The English concept of “guts” can similarly evoke the metaphor grit. 34. 3 Nephi 14:25 , 27 ; see also verses 24–27 . 35. JST, Luke 14:28. 36. Doctrine and Covenants 109:15 . 37. Doctrine and Covenants 109:22 , 26 ; see also verses 21–22 ,  25–26 .

See the complete list of abbreviations here

Dale G. Renlund, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, delivered this devotional address on September 14, 2021.

Self-Improvement

Podcast: Come, Follow Me

Related Speeches

“It Might Have Been”

Pointing Our Souls to Christ

• Skip to main content

India’s Largest Career Transformation Portal

Speech about Life for Students & Children

January 17, 2024 by Sandeep

Speech about Life: Life is beautiful but is full of roller-coaster rides. Life can be challenging, yet we learn to face the world strongly. It’s a divine gift from God, and we must instill a purpose and a path to success. Life is full of surprises and unexpected pitfalls. With inner strength, we should face life with a pinch of a smile. Life provides us with opportunities to succeed and accomplish heights of success in the world.

Short Speech About Life

Below we have provided 2 minutes short speech about life, suitable for class 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 students.

Good morning to all of you present here. Today, I am going to deliver a speech on life. Life is an opportunity to contribute positively to the world. God gifts us all life. Life comes with an end, i.e., death. All people, regardless of being knowledgeable or less knowledgeable, have to face it someday. Someone who is not worried about death but lives life to the fullest is counted as one of the wisest individuals on earth. It is never essential how long we live our life, but it is always vital how well we live our moments, how many lives we touch, and what we achieve in our lifetime.

Understanding life to the fullest brings satisfaction and happiness. On the other hand, those who cannot grasp the meaning of life often find themselves complaining. Life is a process that includes happiness, sorrow, hardships, relationships, and lessons stored for all of us. We are the ones who make a difference to all these. A person who learns to be satisfied is always happy, no matter what he has or has achieved. Someone who embraces struggles and obstacles to become a better person is always successful.

A positive attitude and lively approach always make a difference in life. Life is always full of hope, and we all must make every moment of this life memorable. We all must be thankful to God for this glorious opportunity. It is a treasure for us, making everyone’s journey unique and distinct. We must strive to make everything possible, creating a life worth living.

Thank you for giving me this opportunity to speak on this topic.

Speech on Life

Below, we have provided a motivational speech about life, written in easy and simple words for classes 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10. This life speech is helpful for school students who are preparing for a speech writing competition.

Good morning to one and all present here. I am here to share my thoughts on life. So, what is life? Life is a miracle or a gift given by God. It is a process that has to end someday. Life is all about living yourself. It is unique for every individual; no two people born in this world are the same. Every person carries their personality and character. Life is like a sea of opportunity to create and adore things around you.

Every human life is a blessing, which has the power to build and rebuild things. Life gives us plenty of moments where we express, create, love, help, and experience many more things. It shows us the path of success and brings happiness with time. However, we must remember that life is not always about positive things or happiness. There are sorrows, hardships, and hurdles, but what matters is how we react to such situations.

We all must learn to make this life meaningful by doing whatever is possible. We must carry positive thoughts and attitude. None of us must curse life, as it is an opportunity we got by God’s grace. We must cherish and live every day of our life. We are blessed with many relationships in this world; it is the loving family and caring friends who make our life beautiful. Family, friends, and people around us give us a purpose to live in this world.

The trust, care, and love keep us going for the rest of our lives. They all make our life worth living. Understanding our near and dear ones is vital in our lives. Life is like a trust entrusted to you. It gives you the hope to keep moving. It is like the faith in God, as we all understand that we are answerable to Him for our deeds.

Life is a journey full of ups and downs. It leads us to paths full of happiness, challenges, lessons, hardship, and special moments. We all need to keep in mind that life will not always be easy; it will have a few things to test us or challenge us. We need to accept all those and keep moving on our way. We all must know that it is the only life we got; we must ensure that we do the right things. I would like to conclude my speech with this beautiful quote:

“You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.”

Words at Ease

6 Tribute Speech Examples

Paying tribute to someone who has made a meaningful impact on your life or the lives of others is a sincere way to express gratitude and admiration.

A well-written tribute speech not only honors the person but also inspires and moves the audience.

Tribute Speech Examples

In this article, we’ll explore six examples of tribute speeches that you can use as inspiration for your own.

Whether you’re preparing for a retirement party, a milestone birthday celebration, or a memorial service, these examples will help you find the right words to convey your sentiments.

Let’s explore and discover the power of a beautifully delivered tribute speech!

1. Short Tribute Speech for a Mentor

Thank you all for gathering here today to honor an extraordinary person who has touched so many lives – our beloved mentor, [Name]. I’ve had the privilege of knowing [Name] for the past five years, and I can say without a doubt that they have been a guiding light in my life.

[Name]’s dedication to their craft and their unwavering commitment to helping others grow is truly inspiring. They have a way of seeing potential in people, even when they don’t see it in themselves. Their patience, wisdom, and kindness have helped countless individuals work through the challenges of their personal and professional lives.

I recall the first time I met [Name]. I was a nervous, unsure young professional, but they immediately put me at ease with their warm smile and encouraging words. Over the years, [Name] has been there for me through the ups and downs, always offering sage advice and a listening ear.

[Name], your impact on my life and the lives of so many others is immeasurable. You have taught us the value of hard work, integrity, and compassion. Your legacy will live on through the countless lives you’ve touched and the ripple effect of your kindness. Thank you for being an extraordinary mentor, friend, and role model. We are all better because of you.

— END OF SPEECH —

Commentary: This short tribute speech is perfect for honoring a mentor who has made a meaningful impact on your life. It highlights the mentor’s dedication, wisdom, and the lasting influence they’ve had on you and others. This speech is suitable for a retirement party, a milestone celebration, or any event where you want to express gratitude to a mentor.

2. Medium-Length Tribute Speech for a Parent

Today, I stand before you to honor an extraordinary person who has been my rock, my inspiration, and my guiding light – my [mother/father], [Name]. Growing up, I watched in awe as [she/he] faced life’s challenges with grace, strength, and an unwavering commitment to family.

[Name] taught me the value of hard work and perseverance. [She/He] worked tirelessly to provide for our family, often sacrificing [her/his] own dreams and aspirations to ensure that we had every opportunity to succeed. Despite the long hours and demanding responsibilities, [she/he] always made time for us, showering us with love and attention.

Beyond being an incredible provider, [Name] was also my confidant and my biggest cheerleader. [She/He] celebrated my successes, no matter how small, and picked me up when I stumbled. [Her/His] wise words and comforting hugs got me through the toughest times, and [her/his] belief in me gave me the courage to pursue my dreams.

[Name], your love and dedication have shaped me into the person I am today. You have taught me the importance of family, the power of resilience, and the beauty of unconditional love. Your selflessness and compassion have touched not only our family but also the lives of everyone you’ve encountered.

As I stand here today, I am filled with gratitude for the incredible [mother/father] you have been. Your legacy lives on through the love you’ve given, the values you’ve instilled, and the memories we’ll cherish forever. Thank you for being my hero, my friend, and my guiding light. I love you more than words can express.

Commentary: This medium-length tribute speech is perfect for honoring a parent who has been a constant source of love, support, and inspiration. It highlights the parent’s hard work, sacrifices, and the profound impact they’ve had on your life. This speech is suitable for a parent’s birthday, retirement party, or any occasion where you want to express your deep appreciation and love for your parent.

3. Long Tribute Speech for a Friend

Friends, we gather here today to celebrate an extraordinary individual who has touched our lives in countless ways – our dear friend, [Name]. [Name] is the kind of person who lights up a room with [his/her] presence, whose laughter is contagious, and whose kindness knows no bounds.

I first met [Name] during our early years in college, both of us wide-eyed and eager to take on the world. From the moment we met, I knew [he/she] was someone special. [Name]’s zest for life, quick wit, and compassionate heart drew people to [him/her] like a magnet.

Over the years, our friendship grew, and I watched in admiration as [Name] tackled life’s challenges with grace and resilience. [He/She] faced adversity head-on, always emerging stronger and wiser. [Name]’s unwavering optimism and ability to find the silver lining in even the darkest of times inspired me and everyone around [him/her].

But what truly sets [Name] apart is [his/her] unwavering loyalty and commitment to [his/her] friends. [He/She] has been there for me through the highest of highs and the lowest of lows, always ready with a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, or a word of encouragement. [Name]’s selflessness and generosity know no bounds, and [he/she] has touched the lives of countless people with [his/her] acts of kindness.

[Name], your friendship has been one of the greatest gifts in my life. You have taught me the true meaning of friendship, the power of laughter, and the importance of cherishing every moment. Your impact on my life and the lives of everyone here today is immeasurable, and we are all better people because of you.

As we celebrate you today, I want you to know how much you are loved and appreciated. Your presence in our lives is a constant reminder of the goodness in this world, and we are forever grateful for the light you bring. Thank you for being an extraordinary friend, a true inspiration, and a shining example of what it means to live life to the fullest.

To [Name], our dear friend, our confidant, and our guiding light – we raise our glasses in your honor. May your journey be filled with endless laughter, love, and the joy you so freely give to others. We love you, [Name], and we thank you for being an integral part of our lives.

Commentary: This long tribute speech is perfect for honoring a dear friend who has made a meaningful impact on your life. It highlights the friend’s unique qualities, their unwavering support, and the profound influence they’ve had on you and others. This speech is suitable for a milestone birthday, a wedding toast, or any occasion where you want to express your deep appreciation and love for your friend.

4. Long Tribute Speech for a Colleague

Today, we come together to honor an exceptional individual who has made an indelible mark on our lives and our workplace – our esteemed colleague, [Name]. [Name] is not just a coworker; [he/she] is a mentor, a friend, and an inspiration to us all.

I had the privilege of working closely with [Name] for the past [number] years, and I can say without a doubt that [he/she] embodies the very best of what it means to be a dedicated professional and a compassionate human being. From the moment [he/she] joined our team, [Name] brought a level of expertise, enthusiasm, and creativity that elevated our work to new heights.

But what truly sets [Name] apart is [his/her] unwavering commitment to excellence and [his/her] ability to bring out the best in everyone around [him/her]. [Name] is a natural leader, always ready to lend a helping hand, share [his/her] knowledge, and guide others towards success. [His/Her] patience, kindness, and genuine interest in the growth and well-being of [his/her] colleagues have made [him/her] a beloved figure in our workplace.

I recall countless instances where [Name] went above and beyond the call of duty. Whether it was staying late to help a team member meet a tight deadline, taking on additional responsibilities to ensure the success of a project, or simply being there to offer a word of encouragement during challenging times, [Name] has been a constant source of support and inspiration.

[Name]’s impact extends far beyond the walls of our office. [He/She] has been a driving force behind our company’s success, consistently delivering exceptional results and setting a high standard for all of us to aspire to. [His/Her] innovative ideas, strategic thinking, and unwavering commitment to excellence have not only propelled our team forward but have also earned [him/her] the respect and admiration of clients and industry peers alike.

As we bid farewell to [Name] today, we do so with heavy hearts but also with immense gratitude for the incredible contributions [he/she] has made to our lives and our organization. [Name], your legacy will live on through the countless lives you’ve touched, the projects you’ve brought to fruition, and the culture of excellence you’ve helped to foster.

On behalf of our entire team, I want to express our deepest appreciation for your dedication, your leadership, and your unwavering commitment to making our workplace a better place. Your presence will be sorely missed, but the impact you’ve made will endure. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors, knowing that wherever you go, you will continue to inspire and make a difference in the lives of those around you.

[Name], thank you for being an extraordinary colleague, a true friend, and a shining example of what it means to live and work with purpose and integrity. We are all better because of you, and we will carry the lessons you’ve taught us and the memories we’ve shared with us always.

Commentary: This long tribute speech is perfect for honoring a colleague who has made a meaningful impact on your workplace and your professional life. It highlights the colleague’s exceptional qualities, their dedication to excellence, and the lasting influence they’ve had on you and your team. This speech is suitable for a retirement party, a farewell celebration, or any occasion where you want to express your deep appreciation and respect for your colleague.

5. Lengthy Tribute Speech for a Teacher

Teachers play a pivotal role in shaping the minds and lives of their students, and today, we gather to honor an extraordinary educator who has left an indelible mark on countless lives – our beloved teacher, [Name]. [Name] is not just a teacher; [he/she] is a mentor, a guide, and an inspiration to all who have had the privilege of learning from [him/her].

I first met [Name] when I walked into [his/her] classroom as a wide-eyed [grade level] student, eager to learn but unsure of my own potential. From the moment [Name] greeted us with [his/her] warm smile and infectious enthusiasm, I knew I was in the presence of someone special. [His/Her] passion for teaching and genuine care for each and every student was evident from day one.

[Name]’s classroom was a sanctuary of learning, a place where curiosity was encouraged, and mistakes were celebrated as opportunities for growth. [He/She] had a way of making even the most complicated subjects come alive, infusing [his/her] lessons with creativity, humor, and real-world relevance. [Name] understood that education was not just about memorizing facts and figures but about nurturing critical thinking, fostering a love for learning, and empowering students to become lifelong learners.

But what truly set [Name] apart was [his/her] unwavering belief in the potential of every student who walked through [his/her] door. [He/She] saw beyond test scores and grades, recognizing the unique talents and strengths of each individual. [Name] took the time to get to know us, to understand our dreams and aspirations, and to guide us towards reaching our full potential.

I recall the countless hours [Name] spent outside of class, offering extra help, reviewing assignments, and providing guidance and support. [He/She] was always there for us, whether we needed academic assistance, a listening ear, or a word of encouragement. [Name]’s dedication to [his/her] students knew no bounds, and [he/she] went above and beyond to ensure that we had the tools and confidence to succeed.

[Name]’s impact extended far beyond the classroom walls. [He/She] was a pillar of the school community, actively involved in extracurricular activities, mentorship programs, and initiatives that enriched the lives of students and staff alike. [Name]’s leadership and commitment to creating a positive and inclusive learning environment were an inspiration to all who had the privilege of working with [him/her].

As I stand here today, I am just one of the countless lives that have been forever changed by [Name]’s guidance, wisdom, and unwavering belief in our potential. [Name], your legacy lives on through the generations of students you have inspired, the minds you have nurtured, and the lives you have touched. Your impact is immeasurable, and we are all better individuals because of the lessons you have taught us, both inside and outside the classroom.

[Name], on behalf of all your students, past and present, I want to express our deepest gratitude for your dedication, your passion, and your unwavering commitment to our growth and success. You have been more than just a teacher; you have been a guiding light, a role model, and a true inspiration. Your lessons will stay with us long after we leave the halls of this school, and your influence will continue to shape our lives in countless ways.

As you embark on this new chapter of your life, know that you have left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all those who have had the privilege of learning from you. We are forever grateful for the gift of your teachings, your wisdom, and your unwavering belief in our potential. Thank you, [Name], for being an extraordinary teacher, a true mentor, and a shining example of what it means to live a life dedicated to the service of others.

Commentary: This lengthy tribute speech is perfect for honoring a teacher who has made a profound impact on your life and the lives of countless students. It highlights the teacher’s passion for education, their dedication to student success, and the lasting influence they’ve had on shaping minds and nurturing potential. This speech is suitable for a teacher’s retirement celebration, a school event honoring educators, or any occasion where you want to express your deep appreciation and gratitude for an exceptional teacher.

6. Lengthy Tribute Speech for a Community Leader

Today, we come together to honor an extraordinary individual who has dedicated [his/her] life to serving our community and making a difference in the lives of countless people – our esteemed community leader, [Name]. [Name] is not just a leader; [he/she] is a visionary, a tireless advocate, and a true inspiration to us all.

I first met [Name] when I joined [his/her] community organization as a volunteer, eager to make a positive impact but unsure of where to begin. From the moment I walked through the doors, I was struck by [Name]’s warmth, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the well-being of our community. [His/Her] passion for service and genuine care for each and every individual was evident in everything [he/she] did.

[Name]’s leadership style was one of inclusivity, empowerment, and collaboration. [He/She] had a way of bringing people together, bridging divides, and fostering a sense of unity and purpose. [Name] understood that true change could only be achieved through the collective efforts of a community working towards a common goal, and [he/she] tirelessly worked to create opportunities for people from all walks of life to get involved and make a difference.

Under [Name]’s guidance, our community organization flourished, taking on projects and initiatives that addressed the most pressing needs of our community. Whether it was providing support for underprivileged families, advocating for social justice, or spearheading educational programs, [Name] was always at the forefront, leading by example and inspiring others to join the cause.

But what truly set [Name] apart was [his/her] unwavering commitment to empowering others and building a stronger, more resilient community. [He/She] recognized the potential in every individual and worked tirelessly to provide the resources, support, and guidance needed to help them achieve their goals. [Name] was a mentor, a confidant, and a source of strength for countless individuals who sought [his/her] guidance and support.

I recall the countless hours [Name] spent listening to the stories and concerns of community members, offering words of encouragement, and working tirelessly to find solutions to the challenges they faced. [His/Her] door was always open, and [he/she] made time for anyone who needed [his/her] help, no matter how busy [he/she] was. [Name]’s compassion, empathy, and genuine desire to make a difference touched the lives of so many, and [his/her] impact will be felt for generations to come.

[Name]’s leadership extended far beyond the walls of our community organization. [He/She] was a vocal advocate for change, working tirelessly to bring attention to the issues that mattered most to our community. [Name] fearlessly stood up for what was right,

even in the face of adversity, and [his/her] unwavering commitment to justice and equality inspired others to join the fight.

As I stand here today, I am just one of the countless lives that have been forever changed by [Name]’s leadership, guidance, and unwavering dedication to our community. [Name], your legacy lives on through the lives you have touched, the organizations you have built, and the positive change you have brought about. Your impact is immeasurable, and we are all better individuals and a stronger community because of your tireless efforts.

[Name], on behalf of our entire community, I want to express our deepest gratitude for your leadership, your compassion, and your unwavering commitment to making our world a better place. You have been more than just a leader; you have been a role model, a changemaker, and a true inspiration. Your lessons in service, empathy, and the power of community will stay with us long after you leave this role, and your influence will continue to shape our lives and our community in countless ways.

As you embark on this new chapter of your life, know that you have left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all those who have had the privilege of working with you and learning from you. We are forever grateful for the gift of your leadership, your wisdom, and your unwavering belief in the potential of our community. Thank you, [Name], for being an extraordinary leader, a true advocate, and a shining example of what it means to live a life dedicated to the service of others.

Your legacy will endure, and we pledge to carry forward the work you have started, to continue building a stronger, more compassionate, and more just community for all. We are forever indebted to you, [Name], and we will strive to honor your legacy through our own actions and commitment to making a difference.

Commentary: This lengthy tribute speech is perfect for honoring a community leader who has made a meaningful impact on your community and the lives of its members. It highlights the leader’s dedication to service, their ability to empower and unite people, and the lasting influence they’ve had on shaping a stronger, more resilient community. This speech is suitable for a community event honoring a leader’s contributions, a retirement celebration, or any occasion where you want to express your deep appreciation and gratitude for an exceptional leader who has made a difference in the lives of many.

Tribute speeches are a powerful way to honor and celebrate the individuals who have made a meaningful impact on our lives and the lives of others.

Whether you’re paying tribute to a mentor, a parent, a friend, a colleague, a teacher, or a community leader, the key is to speak from the heart and share the unique qualities, accomplishments, and influence of the person you’re honoring.

The examples provided in this article showcase the diversity of tribute speeches, from short and sweet to lengthy and profound.

Use these examples as inspiration, but remember to infuse your personal experiences, memories, and sentiments to create a truly heartfelt and meaningful tribute.

When writing your tribute speech, focus on the person’s character, their impact on your life and the lives of others, and the lessons they’ve taught you.

Use specific examples and anecdotes to illustrate your points and bring your words to life. Above all, let your genuine appreciation and admiration shine through in every word you speak.

As you deliver your tribute speech, remember that you are not only honoring the person but also inspiring and uplifting those who are listening.

Your words have the power to touch hearts, evoke emotions, and create lasting memories.

Embrace the opportunity to celebrate the extraordinary individuals in your life and to express your gratitude for the profound impact they’ve had on you and the world around them.

So, whether you’re standing in front of a small gathering or a large audience, deliver your tribute speech with sincerity, warmth, and heartfelt appreciation.

Your words will not only honor the person you’re celebrating but also serve as a testament to the enduring power of human connection, love, and the indelible mark we leave on each other’s lives.

• English English
• தமிழ் தமிழ்
• বাংলা বাংলা
• മലയാളം മലയാളം
• ગુજરાતી ગુજરાતી
• हिंदी हिंदी
• मराठी मराठी
• Business Business
• बिज़नेस बिज़नेस
• Insurance Insurance

The Financial Express

• Latest News
• Gold Rates Today
• Mutual Funds
• Share Market Live
• Loksabha Election
• Budget 2024
• Stock Market Quotes
• Mutual Fund
• Stock Stats
• Top Gainers
• CaFE Invest
• Investing Abroad
• Gold Rate in India
• Silver Rate in India
• Petrol Rate in India
• Diesel Rate in India
• Express Mobility
• Banking & Finance
• Travel & Tourism
• Brand Wagon
• Entertainment
• Web Stories
• Auto Web Stories
• Infographics
• Today’s Paper
• International
• Edits & Columns
• Personal Finance Print
• PRIVACY POLICY
• TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Teachers’ Day 2024: Creative short and long speech ideas for students

Teachers’ day 2024 speech in english, short and long speech ideas: as teacher’s day is approaching, here are some speech ideas for you to prepare..

Teachers’ Day 2024 Speech Ideas: Teachers’ Day is a significant occasion to honor and appreciate the mentors who have profoundly influenced our lives. Celebrated every year on September 5 in India, this day marks the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a distinguished educator and former President of India. Delivering a thoughtful speech on this day is a meaningful way to express gratitude for the dedication and impact of our teachers.

Here are some compelling speech ideas to present on Teachers’ Day:

1.The Unsung Heroes: Celebrating the Role of Teachers Beyond the Classroom

This speech can highlight how teachers influence students’ lives beyond academics. Discuss how teachers contribute to character development, instill values, and teach essential life skills. Share personal anecdotes or real-life examples that illustrate their profound impact.

2.How Teachers Have Transformed Education in the Age of New Media

Reflect on the evolution of teaching methods during the global pandemic and the rise of hybrid learning. Praise teachers for their adaptability and their continued effectiveness in engaging students, despite the challenges posed by new media.

3.A Tribute to the Best Coaches of Life: Celebrating the Bond Between Teachers and Students

Share a personal success story or that of a friend, emphasizing how a teacher played a crucial role in inspiring and guiding them. Discuss how teachers plant the seeds of curiosity and wisdom that help students pursue their passions and defy conventional paths.

4 . Teachers as Architects of Encouragement: Building Confidence Through Support

Explore the significance of encouragement in education and how a teacher’s support can boost student confidence. Highlight the transformative power of a teacher’s belief in their students and how it can lead to remarkable achievements.

5 . Teachers as Real-Life Role Models: Nurturing Talent and Potential

Discuss how teachers serve as role models and their commitment to fostering talent in every student. Emphasize their dedication to helping both high achievers and those who struggle, and how they discover and nurture each student’s unique potential.

Get live Share Market updates, Stock Market Quotes , and the latest India News … Read More and business news on Financial Express. Download the Financial Express App for the latest finance news.

• Stock Market Stats

Related News

Raymond Lifestyle, a spin-off of parent firm Raymond, was listed on the National Stock Exchange at Rs 3,020 and on BSE at Rs 3,000. However, the shares fell 5% to Rs 2,869. The company reported a revenue of Rs 890 crore in FY22, with a strong sales growth of 35% in FY21-FY24. Management guidance suggests 12-15% growth in FY24-FY28.

Photo Gallery

5 ‘One Night Stand’: Review; Sunny Leone movie is an erotic emotional excursion

4 Deepika Padukone on Instagram: ‘xXx: The Return of Xander Cage’ teaser for trailer unveiled

14 Inside Anant Ambani, Radhika Merchant’s Sangeet Ceremony: Bollywood royalty and Cricket legends gather for a night of glitz and glamour – See Pics

Trending Topics

• IPO’s Open and Upcoming 13
• Top Indices Performance
• Stock Analysis
• Financial Literacy
• Gold Rate Today
• NSE Top Gainers 1735
• NSE Top Losers 854
• BSE Top Gainers 2961
• BSE Top Losers 1925
• NSE 52-Week High 163
• NSE 52-Week Low 11
• BSE 52-Week High 278
• BSE 52-Week Low 16
• NSE Price Shocker
• NSE Volume Shocker
• BSE Price Shocker
• BSE Volume Shocker
• NSE Sellers
• BSE Sellers
• Silver Rate Today
• Petrol Rate Today
• Diesel Rate Today

‘Stand up and fight': Read Tim Walz's full speech to the Democratic National Convention

Walz highlighted his small-town values and decades-long service in the national guard in a speech to the dnc in chicago, published august 21, 2024 • updated on august 21, 2024 at 11:53 pm.

Editor's note: The text of the speech below is as prepared. His actual delivery may have varied.

Free 24/7 Connecticut news stream: Watch NBC CT wherever you are

Thank you, Vice President Kamala Harris, for putting your trust in me and for inviting me to be part of this incredible campaign. Thank you to President Joe Biden for four years of strong, historic leadership. And it is the honor of my life to accept your nomination for vice president of the United States.

We’re all here tonight for one beautiful, simple reason—we love this country! So thanks to all of you here in Chicago and watching at home tonight—for your passion, for your determination, for the joy that you’re bringing to this fight.

Get top local stories in Connecticut delivered to you every morning. Sign up for NBC Connecticut's News Headlines newsletter.

I grew up in the small town of Butte, Nebraska, population 400. I had 24 kids in my high school class and none of ’em went to Yale. Growing up in a small town like that, you learn to take care of each other. The family down the road—they may not think like you do, they may not pray like you do, they may not love like you do, but they’re your neighbors. And you look out for them, just like they do for you.

Everybody belongs, and everybody has a responsibility to contribute. For me, it was serving in the Army National Guard. I joined up two days after my 17th birthday and I proudly wore our country’s uniform for 24 years. My dad, a Korean War-era veteran, died of lung cancer a couple years later and left behind a mountain of medical debt. Thank God for Social Security survivor benefits. And thank God for the GI Bill that allowed both my dad and me to go to college—just like it has for millions of Americans.

Eventually, I fell in love with teaching, just like the rest of my family. Heck, three out of four of us even married teachers. I wound up teaching social studies and coaching football at Mankato West High School. Go Scarlets! We ran a 4-4 defense, played through the whistle every single down, and even won a state championship. Never close that yearbook, people.

U.S. & World

Footage of motorcade racing JFK to hospital after he was shot set to go to auction

Flu shots are here. When's the ideal time to get one, and should you get it with the Covid vaccine?

It was my students who first inspired me to run for Congress. They saw in me what I hoped to instill in them—a commitment to the common good. An understanding that we’re all in this together. And a true belief that one person can make a real difference for their neighbors.

So there I was, a 40-something high school teacher with young kids, zero political experience, no money, and running in a deep-red district. But you know what? Never underestimate a public school teacher.

I represented my neighbors in Congress for 12 years and I learned an awful lot. I learned how to work across the aisle on issues like growing rural economies and taking care of our veterans. And I learned how to compromise without compromising my values.

Then I came back home to serve as governor and we got right to work making a difference in our neighbors’ lives. We cut taxes for middle-class families. We passed paid family and medical leave. We invested in fighting crime and affordable housing. We cut the cost of prescription drugs and helped people escape the kind of medical debt that nearly sank my family. And we made sure that every kid in our state got breakfast and lunch at school. So while other states were banning books from their schools, we were banishing hunger from ours.

We also protected reproductive freedom because, in Minnesota, we respect our neighbors and the personal choices they make. And even if we wouldn’t make the same choices for ourselves, we’ve got a Golden Rule—mind your own damn business.

That includes IVF and fertility treatments. This is personal for Gwen and me. Let me just say this—even if you’ve never experienced the hell of infertility, I guarantee you know somebody who has. I remember praying each night for a call with good news, the pit in my stomach when the phone would ring, and the agony when we heard the treatments hadn’t worked. It took me and Gwen years. But we had access to fertility treatments and when our daughter was finally born, we named her Hope. Hope, Gus, Gwen—you are my whole world. I love you all so much.

I’m letting you in on how we started our family because that’s a big part of what this election is about—freedom. When Republicans use that word, they mean that the government should be free to invade your doctor’s office. Corporations free to pollute the air and water. Banks free to take advantage of customers. But when we Democrats talk about freedom, we mean your freedom to make a better life for yourself and the people you love. The freedom to make your own health care decisions. And, yeah, your kids’ freedom to go to school without worrying they’ll be shot dead in the halls.

Look, I know guns. I’m a veteran. I’m a hunter. I was a better shot than most Republicans in Congress and I have the trophies to prove it. But I’m also a dad. I believe in the Second Amendment. But I also believe that our first responsibility is to keep our kids safe. That’s what this is all about. The responsibility we have to our kids, to each other, and to the future we’re building together—a future in which everyone is free to build the kind of life they want.

But not everyone feels the same sense of responsibility. Some folks just don’t understand what it means to be a good neighbor. Take Donald Trump and JD Vance—their Project 2025 will make things much, much harder for people who are just trying to live their lives. They’ve spent a lot of time pretending they know nothing about it. But look, I coached high school football long enough, I promise you this—when somebody takes the time to draw up a playbook, they plan on using it.

We know what they’ll do if they get back in the White House. They’ll jack up costs on middle-class families. They’ll repeal the Affordable Care Act. They’ll gut Social Security and Medicare. They’ll ban abortion across America, with or without Congress.

It’s an agenda that nobody asked for. It’s an agenda that serves nobody but the richest people and the most extreme voices in our country. An agenda that does nothing for our neighbors in need. Is it weird? Absolutely. But it’s also wrong. And it’s dangerous. It’s not just me saying so. It’s Trump’s own people. They were with him for four years. And they’re warning us that the next four years would be much, much worse.

When I was teaching, we would always elect a student body president. And you know what? Those teenagers could teach Donald Trump a lesson about what it means to be a leader. Leaders don’t spend all day insulting people and blaming people. Leaders do the work. I don’t know about you all, but I’m ready to turn the page on these guys. So say it with me: “We’re not going back.”

We’ve got something better to offer the American people. It starts with our candidate, Kamala Harris. From her first day as a prosecutor, as a district attorney, as an attorney general, as a U.S. senator, and then, as our vice president, she’s fought on the side of the American people. She’s taken on predators and fraudsters. She’s taken down transnational gangs. She’s stood up to powerful corporate interests. She’s never hesitated to reach across the aisle if it meant improving lives. And she’s always done it with energy, passion, and joy.

Folks, we have a chance to make Kamala Harris the next president of the United States. But I think we owe it to the American people to tell them exactly what she’d do as president before we ask for their votes. So here’s the part you clip and save and send to that undecided relative.

If you’re a middle-class family or a family trying to get into the middle class, Kamala Harris is gonna cut your taxes. If you’re getting squeezed by the price of your prescription drugs, Kamala Harris is gonna take on Big Pharma. If you’re hoping to buy a home, Kamala Harris is gonna help make it more affordable. And no matter who you are, Kamala Harris is gonna stand up and fight for your freedom to live the life you want to lead. Because that’s what we want for ourselves. And that’s what we want for our neighbors.

You know, I haven’t given a lot of big speeches like this one in my life. But I’ve given a lot of pep talks. So let me finish with this, team. It’s the fourth quarter. We’re down a field goal. But we’re on offense. We’re driving down the field. And, boy, do we have the right team to win this. Kamala Harris is tough. She’s experienced. And she’s ready. Our job is to get in the trenches and do the blocking and tackling. One inch at a time, one yard at a time, one phone call at a time, one door knock at a time, one $5 donation at a time. We’ve only got 76 days to go. That’s nothing. We’ll sleep when we’re dead. And we’re gonna leave it all on the field.

That’s how we’ll keep moving forward. That’s how we’ll turn the page on Donald Trump. That’s how we’ll build a country where workers come first, health care and housing are human rights, and the government stays the hell out of our bedrooms. That’s how we make America a place where no child is left hungry. Where no community is left behind. Where nobody gets told they don’t belong.

That’s how we’re gonna fight. And as the next president of the United States says, “When we fight, we win!” When we fight, we win! When we fight, we win! Thank you, and God bless America!

This article tagged under:

• Today's news
• Reviews and deals
• Climate change
• 2024 election
• Newsletters
• Fall allergies
• Health news
• Mental health
• Sexual health
• Family health
• So mini ways
• Unapologetically
• Buying guides
• Labor Day sales

Entertainment

• How to Watch
• My watchlist
• Stock market
• Biden economy
• Personal finance
• Stocks: most active
• Stocks: gainers
• Stocks: losers
• Trending tickers
• World indices
• US Treasury bonds
• Top mutual funds
• Highest open interest
• Highest implied volatility
• Currency converter
• Basic materials
• Communication services
• Consumer cyclical
• Consumer defensive
• Financial services
• Industrials
• Real estate
• Mutual funds
• Credit cards
• Balance transfer cards
• Cash back cards
• Rewards cards
• Travel cards
• Online checking
• High-yield savings
• Money market
• Home equity loan
• Personal loans
• Student loans
• Options pit
• Fantasy football
• Pro Pick 'Em
• College Pick 'Em
• Fantasy baseball
• Fantasy hockey
• Fantasy basketball
• Download the app
• Daily fantasy
• Scores and schedules
• GameChannel
• World Baseball Classic
• Premier League
• CONCACAF League
• Champions League
• Motorsports
• Horse racing

New on Yahoo

• Privacy Dashboard

‘Morning Joe’ Mocks Trump for Naming His Own Speech Style ‘The Weave’: ‘He Hears the Criticism That He’s Rambling’

MSNBC’s “Morning Joe” couldn’t help but laugh at Donald Trump explaining his “weave” speaking tactic, which the panel mocked as a way to “justify” his rambling style.

In a campaign speech in Pennsylvania, the former president named his speaking style the “weave,” saying that he touches on many different topics at once and “they all come back brilliantly together.”

“Friends of mine that are English professors, they say, it’s the most brilliant thing I’ve ever seen,” Trump added. “But the fake news, you know what they say? He rambled.”

“It’s not rambling,” Trump refuted.

After the clip from the campaign speech aired on “Morning Joe,” cohost Joe Scarborough couldn’t hold in his laughter.

“That is Donald Trump in front of a crowd in Pennsylvania, rambling incoherently. Part of a brilliant strategy he calls ‘the weave,’” Willie Geist quipped.

“I like how he sort of lays it out like it’s from ‘A Beautiful Mind,’” Geist joked. “He’s seeing what the rest of us don’t see. All moving together.”

The “Morning Joe” cohost added, “I love that he famously surrounds himself with English professors from our finest institutions.”

“Well, I mean, it only makes sense,” Scarborough shot back. “His great, great uncle went to M.I.T.”

Scarborough then compared Trump’s words to tripping while walking down the street and saying “I meant to do that,” when it was clearly an accident.

“It also gets to the truth,” Geist added. “Everything is in his head. He hears the criticism that he’s rambling.”

“He projects and tries to explain it away to a crowd who doesn’t know what he is talking about,” he said.

Jonathan Lemire added that Trump feels he has to “respond to everything written or said about him.”

“He is undoubtedly watching right now, angry we’re talking about ‘the weave,’” Lemire said.

But Scarborough disagreed.

“Donald Trump doesn’t hate that we’re talking about ‘the weave,’” Scarborough said. “He loves that we’re talking …  Because it, of course, underlines his theory that everything is together.”

Lemire added that Trump is saying this to “Justify what he’s done, almost like a stand-up comedian with a multi-part act, bringing home the punch line three jokes later, referring to the old one, the callback.”

“I’m still waiting for it,” Mika Brzezinski quipped.

The post ‘Morning Joe’ Mocks Trump for Naming His Own Speech Style ‘The Weave’: ‘He Hears the Criticism That He’s Rambling’ appeared first on TheWrap .

TED is supported by ads and partners 00:00

What makes a good life? Lessons from the longest study on happiness

• relationships
• work-life balance

Top milers Notable Speech and Charyn clash in Prix du Moulin at Longchamp

John Ingles looks at how two of the season's best milers measure up in their meeting at Longchamp on Sunday.

Horse profiles

Unraced at two, Notable Speech made rapid strides in the early months of the year, completing a hat-trick on the all-weather at Kempton and then, despite that unorthodox profile, looking a potentially top-drawer miler when winning the 2000 Guineas from Rosallion and Haatem with a sharp turn of foot.

But when sent off the short-priced favourite to keep his unbeaten record in the St James’s Palace Stakes, Notable Speech ran a lacklustre race in beating only one home.

With the St James’s Palace winner Rosallion a late defector from the Sussex Stakes, Notable Speech confirmed himself a high-class miler when back to winning form at Goodwood, though with the St James’s Palace runner-up Henry Longfellow disappointing this time, he was chased home by the very smart older pair Maljoom and Facteur Cheval, the latter third in last year’s Moulin. Raced only three times on turf, on either good or good to firm ground, Notable Speech travels strongly held up and has a fine turn of foot.

WATCH: Notable Speech wins the Qatar Sussex Stakes at Goodwood

Watch Race Replay

Unlimited race replays of all UK & Irish   racing

Access to exclusive features all for FREE - No monthly subscription fee

Log in with your existing Sporting Life, Sky Bet, or Sky Games account. If you don't have any of those, it's completely FREE   to register!

Charyn is no stranger to winning in France as he ended his two-year-old season with victory in the Criterium de Maisons-Laffitte at Chantilly. At three, he developed into a smart colt but failed to win, coming up short at the highest level, including in the same three races which Notable Speech has contested on turf this the year, the 2000 Guineas (eighth), St James’s Palace (best effort when third at 33/1) and Sussex (third again).

But this season, Charyn has developed into a high-class four-year-old with just one defeat, an excusable one at that, in five starts.

After early-season wins at Doncaster and Sandown, he ran well back in Group 1 company to finish second in the Lockinge Stakes to Audience who slipped his field. Charyn duly turned the tables on that rival in the Queen Anne Stakes when registering his first Group 1 victory and followed that Royal Ascot win with a still better effort in the Jacques Le Marois where he had Inspiral, bidding to win it for the third year running, back in third.

Versatile when it comes to ground, Charyn, like Notable Speech, travels strongly and is waited with, though he was ridden a bit more prominently last time.

WATCH: Charyn wins the Queen Anne Stakes at Royal Ascot

Connections.

Neither the trainers nor the riders of either Notable Speech or Charyn have been successful in the Prix du Moulin before, though Notable Speech’s owners Godolphin have won it three times.

Saeed bin Suroor trained two of those winners, Slickly in 2001 and Librettist in 2006, while the most recent Godolphin winner was Ribchester in 2017, trained by Richard Fahey.

There’s a fairly even split this century between the age groups, with three-year-olds having won 11 editions of the Moulin compared with 13 won by four-year-olds and upwards.

Sussex Stakes winners in the Moulin

Only one Sussex Stakes winner this century has gone on to win the Prix du Moulin in the same season. That was another three-year-old, Rock of Gibraltar, in 2002, he too also a 2000 Guineas winner like Notable Speech, having also won the Irish 2000 Guineas and St James’s Palace Stakes that season.

That year’s Moulin also featured a clash between a three-year-old Sussex winner and a four-year-old Jacques Le Marois winner, with Deauville winner Banks Hill running Rock of Gibraltar to half a length in second.

Since Rock of Gibraltar, only four other Sussex winners have contested the same year’s Moulin. Ramonti, second at Longchamp in 2007, fared best of those, while the last to attempt the double was the 2018 Sussex winner Lightning Spear who was fifth at Longchamp.

The only horse since Rock of Gibraltar to win both races was Baaeed, winner of the Moulin at three and the Sussex at four.

Prix Jacques Le Marois winners in the Moulin

It's a quirk of the French racing calendar that the country's two biggest all-age mile contests are usually run just three weeks apart. The mile courses at the two tracks are very different though, with Deauville’s flat, straight mile contrasting with Longchamp where much of the race is on the turn and features a descent.

The Jacques Le Marois-Moulin double has only been completed once in the same year this century, in 2006, and it wasn’t a French-trained horse who accomplished it. The Saeed bin Suroor-trained four-year-old Librettist was a neck winner over Manduro at Deauville and had the same rival back in third when following up at Longchamp three weeks later.

He was the first since Spinning World in 1997 to win both races in the same season, though Goldikova, Excelebration, Moonlight Cloud and Ribchester have all won both races in different seasons more recently. Irish four-year-old Romanised couldn’t have gone much closer to emulating Librettist, winning the Jacques Le Marois but going down by just a nose in the Moulin.

Prix Du Moulin De Longchamp odds

Paddy Power : 6/4 Notable Speech, 13/8 Charyn, 5/1 Henry Longfellow, 12 Tribalist, 14 Caramelito, 20 Big Rock, 25 Ramadan, 33 Kelina, Supercooled.

More from Sporting Life

• Fast results
• Full results and free video replays
• Horse racing news
• Horse racing tips
• Horse racing features
• Download our free iOS and Android app
• Football and other sports tips
• Podcasts and video content

Safer gambling

We are committed in our support of safer gambling. Recommended bets are advised to over-18s and we strongly encourage readers to wager only what they can afford to lose.

If you are concerned about your gambling, please call the National Gambling Helpline / GamCare on 0808 8020 133.

Further support and information can be found at begambleaware.org and gamblingtherapy.org

Most Followed

Most read racing.