Heartfelt Farewell Speech by St. John Bosco High School & Junior College Badlapur

 "I can't tell you how difficult it is to describe how sad I am to be leaving. 

When I got here so many years ago, I would never have realised how connected I would be to such a warm community of people. 

Many times I have been humbled by the kindness of your hearts.
When I look at this gift/my photos/this scar/[other personal item], I will remember…[memories].

Tomorrow I will wake up in my new life, full of yet-to-be realised opportunities, and empty of your company... I will be in a strange limbo. 

You’ve helped me through some difficult times, and shared the joyous times in yours. Some people judge their lives on what they do, others on who they are. I want my life judged on the friends I keep, and how enriched I am from just knowing you.

To out a couple of people:

You might remember a time when I was [name difficulty]. Well I know it might not seem much to people but [Friend A] stepped in to lend a hand. I don't think [Friend A] knows how much that meant to me. I was new to town and didn't feel like I could ask for help. It was a kindness that I now try to return to newcomers.

I also want to mention [Friend B]. Always with a joke and a smile, and no matter what kind of a day I had, I was always welcome to relax and unwind at [Friend B]'s house. It was like a refuge and it's another example of generosity and tolerance that I would like to emulate.

[Continue to mention some friends and their qualities or situations that you are grateful for].

To quote Shakespeare, who is a better word-smith than I am:
"And whether we shall meet again I know not.
Therefore our everlasting farewell take:
For ever, and for ever, farewell, friends!
If we do meet again, why, we shall smile;
If not, why, then this parting was well made. "

To see you here in front of me, the last time all together, is a picture I will treasure for a very long time.

So... until the next time we gather, my very dear friends, farewell for now."