Dear graduating students:
Someone has said, “Without change, there would be no butterflies.” That creature begins as one thing
and ends as another. Without change, we would never know its beauty or the wonder of its special flight.
As you prepare for graduation, think about all the changes you have experienced at Ningde Normal
University.
There have been changes in buildings. New laboratories offer opportunities for scientific investigation.
A new library stores abundant resources and provides a great atmosphere for study and thought. Soon
a new arena will open. Today, its unique architecture and bright red color, speak of the strength of China.
Tomorrow, people from all over the Fujian province will come to take part in its activities.
There have been changes in the landscape. Where bare earth was the theme of yesterday, today trees,
shrubs, flowers and grass fill the campus. With time and care they will grow to display all of nature's
beauty. Walking trails on the mountain are in progress and will soon provide another place to exercise
and relax while enjoying a scenic view.
Perhaps the greatest changes have been in you. Just a few years ago, you walked through the front gate
of this University as shy, timid, boys and girls. You have learned to manage your time and money. You
have learned to focus your energy on self study. You have learned to cooperate with roommates and
make friends with strangers. You have become young men and women who are ready to take on adult
responsibilities. What a difference!
As you walk out the main gate for the last time, don’t be afraid of change. Some changes will be out of
your control. Let the experiences of these last few years help you to adapt and make the best of any
situation. Change the things that you can. Take what you have learned and apply it to your life struggles.
Above all, surround yourself with those whose love and friendship will not change. You will need them
and they will need you. Now is the time for you, like the butterfly, to show all the beauty of your unique
design and fly to those places that only you can go.
Sincerely,
Michael Potts (Mike)
6-4-15