More from John Cena

Enjoy today, because it only happens once. And this has been one hell of a ride.

JC

John Cena

Cushing Academy Commencement 2015, 2015

12:29

Video starts at 12:29 — the moment this quote was spoken

The Story Behind This Quote

Cena's closing line encapsulates his entire speech, which pushes back against the future-obsessed anxiety of graduation season. He remembers sitting in those same seats 20 years ago, just wanting to get his diploma and move on. The future will be there, he tells the class — but your friends are here today, your families are here today, some friends you won't see for a while. He exhorts them to celebrate, enjoy, rejoice, party responsibly, but — damn it — celebrate. The phrase 'one hell of a ride' carries particular weight coming from someone whose journey went from Cushing to a Division III football team to Gold's Gym to 15 world championships and the Make-A-Wish Foundation record.

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