The University of Maine commencement took place Saturday, conferring approximately 2,050 degrees, including 44 doctorates, 556 Masters, 1698 Bachel-ors and 539 Certificates of Advanced Studies.

Keynote speaker John Edwards, of John Kerry campaign fame, talked about his poverty program reminiscent of the Lyndon B. Johnson days. However, the most poignant moment was President Robert Kennedy’s comment to the graduates that “a change takes place in your brain that others will notice.”

Was he perhaps speaking of the ability to think outside the box, to think for yourself, to have convictions and be willing to act upon those convictions? All too often, in the struggle for jobs, careers and money, we become just another cog in the mindless wheel that continues its destructive path.

Changes are needed in our lives on all levels; personal, societal and global. Figuring out what changes you are willing to promote and commit your resources to makes all the difference.

Jean Barry

Bangor