You are the doctors, business owners and executives of tomorrow, the future teachers of our children and the future representatives and state senators who will serve Texas. Perry concluded by telling graduates not to be intimidated by the future challenges that are ahead of them. He expressed to them the importance of the hallowed calling of their university, integrity and keeping focused on those things that are decent and virtuous. Aspire to make this a better world - for your children, for your community, for the people of Texas and for the citizens of this entire nation. Remember, there are no mistakes, only lessons, and lessons are often repeated until you learn them.
Some lessons take longer to learn than others.
Too many people get calluses from patting themselves on the back. If you're a farmer or rancher these days, you've got to be an eternal optimist. Droughts and low commodity prices have certainly put most Texas producers to the test. But despite everything, they are optimists. It's believing deep down in your heart that tomorrow, next month or even next year will be better.