Valedictorian Speech by Julie Cohn NEHS 
Class 165      delivered 6/16/06

“That Sam-I-am!
That Sam-I-am!
I do not like that Sam-I-am!
Do you like green eggs and ham?
I do not like them Sam-I-am.
I do not like green eggs and ham.”
Good evening Mr. Barton, honored guests, faculty, staff, family, friends, and the graduating class of 2006,
When we walked through the main doors of Northeast High School for the first time, we had no idea what the next four years would bring. Sure, we knew that we would be learning new things and meeting new people, but we had no idea how our time here would impact our lives. Leaving the comfort zone of our middle schools, we entered new and uncertain territory. We, 165, were taking a huge risk. 
Yes, new experiences can be pretty overwhelming. Sometimes we are so scared to try something new that we convince ourselves that it is awful, disgusting, or boring--- simply not worth our time. I am sure you all know this book Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss. You know, the one in which Sam-I-am convinces his friend to eat something new? Well, Sam’s friend is so sure that he would hate green eggs and ham. However, after Sam’s unorthodox nagging, involving a boat, a goat, a house, and a mouse, his friend finally gives in and tries them. Well, you all know what happens next. He loves this strange delicacy! Can you imagine if he had remained stubborn and resolute? He would have missed out on something really great. I know, I know, this sounds pretty silly, but can’t we relate Dr. Seuss’ philosophy to ourselves?
Class 165, we are now embarking on a new phase in our lives. Whether you are going to college or going straight into the work force, there will be a multitude of occasions to try new things, learn new things, see new things, and think about new things. I encourage you to keep an open mind and to take advantage of those opportunities. Because without taking chances, life would just be boring. Figure out what you like and surround yourself with those things that make you happy. Be your own person. Do not feel pressured to do something just because it is the popular thing to do. Like what you really like, not what you think you are supposed to like. What does that mean? We all have been guided by our families, our peers, and the media to believe certain things. It is now time to listen to our own inner voices and to do what is truly in our hearts.
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