The author Isabel Allende grew up in a prominent in family in Chile until the military overthrew the government in 1973, which forced her family into exile. She went on to become the world’s most widely read Spanish language author. Ten years ago she came to San Domenico and spoke to our students. And here is what she said:
“You are empowered by the best education available, and in this school you learn to use your power and resources to help others. It’s in giving that one becomes rich; the only wealth that counts is in the soul. All the rest can be lost in a second. I have started from scratch several times. I have had to pack a small bag, close my house with everything it contains, and leave for good. And believe me, each time I have promptly forgotten what I lost. Stuff is irrelevant. Sooner or later we have to throw overboard our possessions, vanities, and ambitions; only the good we do matters.”
Only the good you do matters. And that is why you are here, to make a difference in the world. You will become the next generation of artists, environmental scientists, social justice warriors. The world needs you. We don’t need more people who make money but have no morality. We don’t need more people who take power but have no love.
We want you to make a real difference in the world. And in order to make a real difference, you will need a lot of knowledge and a lot of skills. That is why we are always working to create the best education available. It is not going to be easy. You will be challenged, but we will be with you every step of the way.
May you have a wonderful year and a wonderful time here at San Domenico!
