High school graduation doesn’t just signify the end of something. It also celebrates the beginning of a brand-new era in one’s life. Graduation speeches are usually replete with well-wishes, and more often than not, they bring students, faculty, and parents to tears. But one student in New Zealand just gave the most heartbreaking speech of all time — and it was absolutely stunning.

Jake Bailey is loved by everyone who knows him. Sadly, the admirable teen was given some devastating news while he was in the process of drafting his graduation speech.

Just days before the ceremony, doctors told Jake that he had an aggressive form of cancer that would kill him in three weeks if he didn’t start treatment immediately. Suddenly, a world of possibility turned into a terrifying glimpse into what could be a short future.

But Jake was determined to speak to his class. You can watch the brave student’s entire speech in the video below.

(via BuzzFeed)

At a point where being selfish would’ve been totally justified, Jake Bailey gave a selfless speech that honored the school that turned hundreds of boys into strong, intelligent young men.

We should all take a page out of Jake’s book. Like he said, “None of us get out of life alive, so be gallant, be great, be gracious, and be grateful for the opportunities you have.”

Read more: http://www.viralnova.com/emotional-graduation-speech/