St Marys Hall - La Reata Yearbook (San Antonio, TX)

Page 15 text:

Farewell to Seniors When most of you were in the first grade, your feet barely touching the floor, the President of the United States, John F. Kennedy, gave the commencement address at the American University in Washington, D.C. He told his audience, “If we cannot end now our differences, at least we can help make the world safe for diversity.” Eleven turbulent years have passed since he made that plea. He is no longer with us, and you are now ready to receive your diplomas. Yet, his words are as current and as compelling as the day he spoke them. It seems unlikely to me that the time will ever come when all the people in this world will embrace the same political, economic, social and religious premises. 1 believe, therefore, that you and I and those who follow us should dedicate ourselves to the great task of helping to “make the world safe for diversity.” The written record of man’s inhumanity to man makes it all too clear how difficult it will be to achieve this goal, but the awesome power of destruction that man possesses gives us no reasonable alternative. I sincerely believe that human beings have the capacity to live together in harmony no matter how different they may be. I hope that each of you will look back on your days at Saint Mary’s Hall with fond memories. We enjoyed the opportunity to be a part of your formative years; we have learned from you as you have learned from us. We will now watch with pride and satisfaction as you go on to meet new and greater challenges. Our very best wishes go with you. 11 SHERWOOD INKLEY Headmaster