Cardigan's Commencement Address by Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr.

Introduction 0:11

The commencement speaker is introduced as Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr., a Harvard graduate and former law clerk who succeeded Justice Rehnquist. He is also a parent of a Cardigan student.

The Chief Justice's Humility 2:01

Roberts shares a story about visiting the Supreme Court and sitting on a couch where John Quincy Adams died. He describes his role as 'holding the reins of a horse' to illustrate the delicate balance of judicial power.

A Gift for Graduates 3:59

Each graduate receives a pocket-sized Constitution signed by Roberts, encouraging them to read it.

Acknowledging Parents 6:14

Roberts asks graduates to applaud their parents for the sacrifices made to send them to Cardigan.

The Value of Failure 9:00

Roberts reflects on how the support of friends and the willingness to fail helped graduates grow. He notes that success came not from avoiding failure but from persevering through it.

Wishes for Adversity 10:22

Roberts controversially wishes graduates unfairness, betrayal, loneliness, bad luck, and pain, explaining that these experiences teach justice, loyalty, gratitude, compassion, and sportsmanship.

Advice on Being Yourself 11:40

He critiques the common advice to 'be yourself,' urging graduates to instead strive to become better and to examine their lives, quoting Socrates.

Practical Tips 13:10

Roberts advises graduates to introduce themselves to school staff, smile and greet strangers, and write a weekly handwritten note. He dictates a sample thank-you note to a teacher.

Closing with Bob Dylan 15:59

Roberts reads lyrics from 'Forever Young,' noting that while the wishes are beautiful, the refrain 'stay forever young' is a parent's lament, not a good wish. He ends the speech.