Kermit the Frog, the beloved green character, delivered an inspiring commencement speech to the Class of 2025 at the University of Maryland. This event is particularly significant given that Kermit’s creator, Jim Henson, was once a student at the university before his passing in 1990.
Dressed in a Muppet-sized cap and gown, Kermit captured the audience’s attention with his charming humor and heartfelt messages. As he addressed the graduates, he remarked, “As a former tadpole, believe me, losing your tail is a pretty big deal,” and went on to emphasize the importance of community and relationships with the advice to “find your people,” “take the leap,” and “make connections.”
He took a moment to pay tribute to both his creator Jim Henson, and Henson’s wife, Jane, honoring their contributions and legacies. Kermit also humorously shared that he is a “distant cousin” of the university mascot, Testudo the turtle, before imparting wisdom about teamwork and the collective journey of life.
Perhaps most notably, Kermit encouraged graduates to approach life with the mindset that “life is like a movie. Write your own ending. Keep believing, keep pretending.” This optimistic perspective resonated with not just the graduates, but with those who value creativity and the role it plays in personal and professional growth.
His speech aligns with themes seen previously from other commentators and artists, such as at the Kennedy Center, where the importance of artistic expression and community support has been underscored amid political challenges. While Kermit’s visit may be whimsical, it reinforces the ongoing conversation about the role of arts and community in shaping our lives.
This festive atmosphere of the commencement ceremony combined with Kermit’s timeless messages of hope and connection serves as a delightful reminder that the arts have the power to inspire and uplift. In a world often filled with challenges, such moments remind us of the joy and connection that can be found in creativity and shared experiences.
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