Eric Church structured his commencement address around the metaphor of a six-string guitar, with each string representing a key value or lesson for the graduates. Here are the highlights for each string. The delivery is outstanding, so be sure to watch when you have ten minutes.
- First String – Faith: Church described the first string as representing faith. Not just religious faith, but faith in oneself, in others, and in the journey ahead.
- Second String – Family: The second string stood for family, emphasizing the importance of staying connected to loved ones and drawing strength from those bonds.
- Third String – Friendship: He likened the third string to friendship. He urges graduates to cultivate meaningful friendships that offer support and joy throughout life.
- Fourth String – Work Ethic: The fourth string represented work ethic. Church urged graduates to approach their careers and passions with dedication and persistence.
- Fifth String – Community: The fifth string represented community. The value of belonging to something larger than oneself and of contributing to the greater good.
- Sixth String – Passion: Finally, the sixth string stood for passion. Church encouraged the class to pursue what excites and motivates them, allowing passion to guide their choices.
He concluded by noting that, just as all six strings are needed to make music, these six values together create a harmonious and fulfilling life. And of course, he tossed in a good go-to-hell Duke story, and I’m told everybody in the stadium was in tears. The whole talk was certainly emotional for me.
Go Tar Heels!
