Marsalis told a haunting story about the widow of a successful New Orleans doctor. At a luncheon banquet full of prominent physicians, her husband began choking during the meal. Embarrassed, he excused himself to the bathroom, where he passed out and died alone — with a roomful of the best possible support just a few feet away. The story powerfully illustrated Marsalis's point that pride and embarrassment can be fatal if they prevent you from reaching out to the people who love you. He framed the entire commencement ceremony as a gathering of each graduate's 'second line' — a New Orleans jazz term for the community of supporters who follow the parade. His message was both tender and urgent: embrace your support system, because they are here for you.