FFA Keynote Address: Making a Difference in Life

Study Notes

Speaker is happy to address FFA members, believes FFA is the greatest Youth Organization in the world.
Comes from a predominantly black family and is an ordained minister.
Time is enemy, wants to talk about what it takes to make a difference in life.
Emphasizes importance of holding on to wisdom from various sources: AG teachers, parents, grandparents.
AG teachers are committed to students for life.
FFA prepares students for various careers and entrepreneurship.
Society is becoming more superficial and morality is eroding.
World needs common sense, decency, and morality.
Need people who come out of FFA to run for political offices, be good parents, teachers, etc.
Everyone should be in FFA as this country started with a love for the land and agriculture.
Parents, regardless of their education level, can impact children's lives.
AG teachers taught important lessons like being kind, judging people, making sure your servant's towel is bigger than your ego.
Reach out and lift someone up to expose the best of the FFA and your family.
FFA young folks tell the truth, think the best of people, and do what they say they will do.
Speaker believes future leaders could be in the audience.- Speaker is addressing future presidents and encouraging them to listen to his advice.
Emphasizes the importance of holding on to the wisdom of family and teachers.
Mentions basketball coach John Wooden, known for his work ethic and leadership.
Leadership is about influence, not just power or title.
Sweeping gym floors is an example of leadership and service.
Wisdom can't be learned in schools, but from those who have lived through difficult times.
AG teachers, moms, dads, and grandparents offer valuable wisdom.
Excellence and serving others are important virtues.
Story of a young man who became a baseball player despite not having a glove or resources.
Importance of kindness and genuine interest in others.
Speaker's own story of falling in love, proposing to his wife, and dealing with her illness.
How standing firm, even through difficult times, can lead to opportunities and impact.
Encourages listeners to keep standing, even during hardships, and to live their lives with excellence, kindness, and truth.