Russell' Salutatorian Speech - ORHS 2017

Congratulations, future leaders of America. There goes the 90’s.
Most graduate speakers will tell you that they wrote their speech at the very last minute, or during the car ride to graduation. They are probably lying. Like any other top student, I got my parents to write this for me -- well in advance. This was originally a valedictorian speech, but I didn't quite make the cut.
However, I’ve learned that there is nothing wrong with coming in at second place. After all, Buzz Aldrin was the second man to set foot on the moon, but he still got to go to the moon. I'd like to thank a few people who may not have come in first, but deserve recognition for leaving an impression on my life.
Like Tom Jeffrey, the second best guitar player I’ve ever played with.
And Thatcher Ervin, the second best keyboard player.
Ryan Bergman, the second best drummer.
Mr. Hawley, my second favorite teacher.
Skylar Bagdon, the second best actor in the school, and by far the best at skipping class.
Sam Lippmann, the second funniest person I know.
And Isaac Niman, my second-best friend.
To anyone else, if I haven't mentioned your name, you might be in first place.
I'd like to thank my parents and my brother for everything they have done for me.
Finally, I have to thank everyone who went to Phillips Exeter, so that they could make room for me to be salutatorian.
As you move on in life, I hope you will remember the lessons you have learned, and the friends you have made, at Oyster River High School, the second-best school in the state. I know that I certainly will.
Whether you're first, second, tenth, twentieth, or fiftieth, your grades are not the only measure of your future success. Be proud of your accomplishments, look towards the future, and relax.