We define ourselves by our actions, convictions,
and responses to the world around us
and by the degree to which we take full responsibility
for our lives.
Now, whatever your backgrounds and wherever you're headed,
you all have two things in common right now.
You are graduating with a phenomenal education,
and you are young.
These two things combined give you immense power.
They say, "with great power comes great responsibility"--
not true.
Responsibility is entirely optional.
You can coast if you want to.
But don't you dare coast.
Ladies and gentlemen of the University
of Virginia Class of 2015, each and every one of you
has a vibrant, courageous soul and a depth
of power, creativity, and wisdom you are only just beginning
to tap into.
That is your light.
It is the life within you.
And you have to let it shine because, when you do,
I promise it will illuminate you, your family, your friends,
your community, your country, and the entire world.
Don't let that light die.
Every day, wake up and say to yourself,
"This little light of mine, I'm going to let it shine!
This little light of mine, I'm going to let it shine."
(SINGING) This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine!
Whoa, this little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine.
This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine.
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine!
Everywhere I go, I'm gonna let it shine.
Whoa, everywhere I go, I'm going to let it shine.
Everywhere I go, I'm gonna let it shine.
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine!
This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine.
Whoa, this little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine.
This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine.
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine!
I'm gonna let it shine!
[APPLAUSE AND CHEERING]
Congratulations!
[APPLAUSE AND CHEERING]