What Saved Your Life?

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Javon Liburd/ BVI Platinum News
Ashaala Jenkins, Keynote Speaker at the 2017 ESHS graduation ceremony and member of the graduating class of 1997.

(PLTM) - The 2017 graduates of the Elmore Stoutt High School (ESHS) were asked to reflect over their years in high school, and to highlight what saved them from quitting. This exercise was executed by Ms. Ashaala Jenkins, Keynote Speaker at the graduation ceremony held last evening, June 22. Jenkins is a member of the graduating class of 1997.

Using her personal story, Jenkins sought to encourage the graduates, all while offering advice as they prepare to enter adulthood.

“Some of you don’t know the story of how some of us got here today. You don’t know the story of the hard work it took just for us to stand in here 2017.”

Jenkins shared with the students and those in attendance, that at the age of thirteen, she wanted to commit suicide, but noted that music saved her life.

“While my years in high school could’ve been perceived as the happiest years of my life, my years in high school were some of the darkest moments of my life. It was very hard for me to get through high school in 1992 to 1997.”

She said, “I owe me life to music and the music programmes at the BVI High School. I enrolled in every band and every choir because that is what I love; that saved my life.”

The students where then challenged to think about what kept them on their path and aided them to graduate from high school.

“I’m sharing this with you because some of you today might be going through something that no one knows about, yet you are here and that should be celebrated. No matter what you’ve gone through, think back over the last six years; what saved your life?”

She advised the students, that as they move on from high school and into the real world, whether the world of work or to further their studies, to keep close to their friends, family and their faith.

“Some of you are moving off to college, your careers and some of you don’t know what next in your life, but no matter what decision you make, you’re a big deal. As you move on, don’t forget the three most important F’s in your life---friends, faith and family.”

She said, “These three things are important in your lives. Make sure that your faith, whatever you believe in, that keeps you sane and focused; continue to keep that in your life. Where ever you are, you're going to need your family and friends, your extended family, your village; never reject your village. I thank God for the village, because the village raised me.”

She ended by reciting her personal motto to the students, encouraging them to adopt it and live by it.

“Live with purpose, in purpose, on purpose. We are all born with purpose, but many are not living in purpose. A lot of people have regrets and wish they can go back. Don’t let anyone deter you from what your passions is."

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