Editor’s Note: Today, The Daily Leader continues publication of area high school valedictorian and salutatorian graduation speeches. The following address is from Brookhaven Academy Salutatorian Lindsey Winborne. 

On behalf of the Class of 2014, I would like to welcome you to Brookhaven Academy’s graduation ceremony.

It’s hard to believe this day has finally come. We have reached the end of our high school journey.

We cannot leave without thanking the people that have helped us through the years. I would like to first thank the teachers at Brookhaven Academy. Thank you for the time and patience you all invested in each one of us. In addition to the curriculum, you managed to teach us many life lessons along the way. You have fully prepared us for the next steps in our lives, and we are forever grateful.

Next, I would like to thank the parents. Your love, support, and constant encouragement are what kept us going. From academics to athletics, you were always there to guide and encourage us.

Lastly, I would like to thank my friends and fellow graduates for making my high school years some of the best in my life. I will forever cherish the friendships and memories that have been made with each and every one of you. I wish you all the best in this next chapter of your lives.

Before we say goodbye, I would like to leave you with a Bible verse to encourage you along your journey and help you through the struggles of life. James 1:2-4 says, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

Thank you again and congratulations to the Class of 2014!