Story: "Welcome to Anacostia’s Class of 2014 commencement exercises. The two years I have spent at Anacostia have been wonderful, and I could not have asked for a better experience. I have been taken care of by the best principal, teachers, and coaches in the city. These educators actually care about our wellbeing: it is not just a paycheck to them. I feel as if I have walked into the arms of a second family. They are a security blanket that covers us wherever we are.

During my journey, I have made wonderful friends, sweated, cried, succeeded on the court and track and in the classroom. I have to shout out my family for always supporting me and being by my side. I have to shout out my school for always being available and helping me when I was in a jam. Also, for pushing me when I felt as if I was about to give up. My amazing track coach, Ms. Perry, was like a mother, sister, and best friend to me at the same time. She has always been someone who I could come to for whatever and whenever—no matter the time of day—and when I needed an ear for my problems and advice, as well. I love her so much. She is definitely a life-changer. Mrs. Sugarman, my wonderful counselor who not only told me to follow my heart but helped me to as well. I adore her. Mr. Smith, Anacostia’s excellent D. C. CAP advisor, who helped me get through the tough, frustrating college process without a problem. Without him, I probably would not have even applied and made it through, especially the financial aid portions. I would also like to thank Mr. Debon, Coach June, Coach Crows, Ms. Freeman, Coach Shackleford, Coach Thomas, Mr. Mooner, and Ms. Witherspoon, who have supported me every step of the way. And I would be remiss if I didn’t thank all of the community partners and [inaudible] supporters I have gained over the past month.

Throughout my journey here, I have learned that time doesn’t wait, pity, or adjust for or to anyone, and life is not fair. Life is not fair. But despite that harsh reality, you must keep striving for success through the pain, tears, and feeling of lost hope.

People say life is short; live it up. I say life is endless; turn up, earn it up, but don’t burn it up. Your life decisions lead you to where you end up.

For the longest, I was in the struggle, trying my best, but started to think that it would never be over. I started to give up. But then, God gave me a sign that He wasn’t putting me through this to punish me, but to show others how to be resilient and persistent in the goals of life.

I see a promising future ahead, and I didn’t do it all alone. I had gracious help for which I will be forever grateful.

Before I receive my diploma and head on to Georgetown, I just wanted to leave you all with a piece of advice. Class of 2014, always be who you truly are inside. Never be afraid to go after your dreams. And regardless of the negative forecast that has been predicted upon us, beat the odds, and let the sun shine.

The future lies within reach of our hands, and if we keep striving and don’t let anyone knock us off our path, or deter us from our goals, we can do anything we put our mind to. No matter what. Resilience, perseverance, discipline, determination, and dedication is the key to your success. Each step we take is paved with possibilities. Now, go unlock the doors to your future.

By Rashema Melson, 2014. Used by permission of Rashema Melson."

Question: What culture does Melson talk about that influenced her?