Over the past years we in the religious school have instructed you on the true course to direct your life. We have helped you learn the lessons of history. We have imparted to you the collected wisdom of our people. We have tried to prepare you to be the pilot of your life. It is not an easy course to steer.
Life is filled with much uncertainty.
Life can change from good to bad as quickly as the weather. Life can be a very stormy sea at times and how you chart your course will determine if you will sail on or founder on the many rocks that wait to snag those who veer from the proper path. It will all depend on your skill as a pilot. It will depend on how well you have learned the lessons your parents and your synagogue have tried to teach you. The rewards of holding your rudder true are readily apparent to anyone who pauses to think about it.