Morte Vampir, Morte

As we enter another season of Commencement and change, it is my hope that this small nugget of insight is something this year's group of seniors will hold on to as they enter the world as emerging scholars, artists, citizens, leaders, and individuals. 

My advice to you is this: Beware of vampires. Yes, vampires. 

Allow me to explain. 

I’m not talking about a blood-sucking gothic Transylvanian villain that can poof into a bat at a moment’s notice – a pale, glitter-skinned perpetual teenager residing in the Pacific Northwest – or eccentric night dwellers living on Staten Island… These vampires are more prolific, more problematic, and more likely to cause you–yes, you–issues as you head out into the world. 

These vampires are the ones referenced in the 2008 Broadway musical, [title of show].  [title of show] is, as its authors put it, “two guys writing a musical about two guys writing a musical about two guys writing a musical.” Yes. It’s very meta. 

The show follows a cast of four friends as they embark on the creative process of writing and producing an original musical. The ensemble faces a variety of challenges, from composing songs to submitting for festivals.  In many ways it's no different from the journey of becoming that you have put yourself through in pioneering research, creating art, and exploring new ideas, often for the first time, during your ASMSA experience. 

In one song, the performer Susan bemoans:

There are some people in the world who say that writing stories

Or composing music or dancing sparkly dances is easy for them

Nothing interferes with their ability to create.

This song, Susan notes, is for the rest of us. Susan goes on to list all of the amazing things we want to accomplish and create. But along the way–vampires swoop in. These “vampires” are any thought, person, or feeling that stands between you and what you want to create or accomplish. These vampires fill us with doubt, insecurity, fear, or anxiety - leading us to falsely believe that we are incapable of achieving our goals. 

You have likely encountered a vampire without realizing it. Maybe it was a 3rd-grade art teacher who said you can’t draw, a friend who said you can’t sing good enough to be in a musical, or a family member who always seems to hone in and push that one thing you’re insecure about. 

As Susan poignantly points out in the song

Why is it that if some person 

Said this to me on the sidewalk

I’d think they were a deranged jerk

But if the vampire inside my head says it

It’s the voice of reason? 

It is incredibly easy to find yourself surrounded by vampires that want to suck the life out of you. Whether it’s negative people looking to drain the joy and ambition out of you - or your own doubts and fears holding you back - these vampires won’t promise you a life of immortality, but rather, a life that is drained of the joy that comes through challenge, growth, and perseverance.

Imagine for a moment, your inner strength as a radiant light. Vampires seek to dim this light. But here's the truth: you hold the power to banish them–to shout "Morte vampir, morte!"  You are capable of doing and creating amazing things. You will face new obstacles and challenges, but none that you are incapable of overcoming.

Slaying these vampires requires vigilance, recognizing their presence, and the hold they have over you. Challenge the negative thoughts that creep in and question their validity. Replace them with affirmations of your worth and capabilities. Surround yourself with positivity, seek out those who uplift and support you, and engage in activities that invigorate your spirit.

I encourage you to find the vampire hunters – the Van Helsings, the Blades, the Buffy Summers, the Abraham Lincolns, even, who will help you slay these doubts, fears, and whatever other ghoulish form the vampire takes. Find the special people who champion your successes and listen to your struggles. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Vampires may be strong - but trust me, they are not invincible. 

Just as you wouldn't invite a physical vampire into your home, don't allow these energy thieves into your heart and mind. Protect your creativity, ambition, and ingenuity by saying no to negativity and yes to your infinite potential.  Embrace your strengths and accomplishments, no matter how small. Each step forward is a victory against the forces of doubt. Remember, you are the keeper of your energy. Your light is unique and powerful, and nothing can extinguish it without your permission.

As you stand on the threshold of your future, embrace your brilliance, graduates, and let your light shine. Let your courage and determination serve as a testament to overcoming these challenges and inspire others to do the same. You are leaders, creators, and innovators. You are poised to do countless great things in the future - and everyone has joined here today to cheer you on. Keep this in mind as you embark on your next chapter. 

And also, keep some garlic on hand. You know, just in case.