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Stephen Colbert

    Writer, comedian and TV host
    Commencement Address at Northwestern University, 02 June 2011

    In 2011, Stephen Colbert, the iconic comedian and host of "The Colbert Report," graced Northwestern University with his presence. Colbert's unique blend of satire, humor, and insightful commentary, underscored the role of comedy and critical thinking in shaping public discourse and providing fresh perspectives on the world's events.

    10 top life lessons by Stephen Colbert

    1. Dreams are flexible; they can change over time, and that’s perfectly acceptable.
    2. Failure does not define you; it’s a natural part of life, leading to unexpected and fulfilling paths.
    3. Life is not a game with winners and losers; it’s more akin to improvisation with unpredictable twists.
    4. Embrace the idea of serving others; collaboration and shared goals lead to meaningful connections.
    5. True service is an expression of love; whether to friends, community, or a shared idea, it fosters fulfillment.
    6. Recognize that no one person is more important than the collective effort; everyone has a crucial role.
    7. Embrace life’s unpredictability; like improv, accept the uncertainty and welcome unexpected experiences.
    8. Finding common goals fosters collaboration; connecting with those who share your passions leads to achievements.
    9. Service is the visible manifestation of love; actions that contribute to others’ well-being demonstrate genuine care.
    10. Celebrate the journey; life is not about winning but enjoying the process, experiences, and relationships formed along the way.

    Best quotes of Stephen Colbert‘s speech

    "You are what some have called 'the greatest generation.' Not many – but some - so far just me. And I’m counting on you to not make me look like an idiot for saying that. So be great – no pressure."

    "And we didn’t have cell phones. If you made plans to meet someone in a snowstorm, and they didn’t show up, you just had to assume they were devoured by wolves and go on with your life."



    Video of Stephen Colbert‘s Commencement speech at Northwestern University

    Life is an improvisation. You have no idea what’s going to happen next and you are mostly just making things up as you go along.

    Commencement speech transcript

    You are what some have called “the greatest generation”. Not many – but some- so far just me. And I’m counting on you to not make me look like an idiot for saying that. So be great – no pressure.

    Northwestern’s academic resources are unparalleled. The library contains 5 million books, and 100,000 periodicals, none of which anyone reads because they’re not on an iPad. Next year, I believe Deering Library is being converted into a chipotle.

    And we didn’t have cell phones. If you made plans to meet someone in a snowstorm, and they didn’t show up, you just had to assume they were devoured by wolves and go on with your life.

    But the clearest example of how this once great institution has failed you, students? In 1986, our commencement speaker was “George Schultz”, Secretary of State, fourth in line to the President. You get me – basic cable’s second most popular fake newsman. At this rate, the class of 2021 will be addressed by a zoo parrot in a mortarboard that has been trained to say “Congratulations”.

    Commencement Address Source »

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