Tears ran down several students’ faces as they listened to Chris Herren, former NBA player, share his substance abuse story in the high school gymnasium.

The moving speech Herren prepared for South Hadley was exactly what students needed to hear. Herren’s approach was uncommon and therefore captured even the listeners who were expecting just another story to scare us from substance abuse. He used detailed personal anecdotes about his struggles fighting his urges to  call his dealer and get high or just under the influence. A strong message that Herren conveyed was to just “Be You.” He has a goal to impact the lives of people suffering with addiction as well as people who are just not comfortable with themselves. Herren emphasized the fact that there is no need to change yourself because of pressure to feel like you have to fit in and that it’s important to just be who you are. Many students went up to Herren at the end and thanked him or asked him questions, others even tweeted at him showing the interest students had on what Herren spoke about. Not only students, but parents who came to listen to Herren speak were influenced. His approach was incredibly inspirational and his message genuinely conveyed the importance to just be comfortable with being yourself.

Shortly after Herren’s visit Dean Whalen, former alumni and a current football coach, was prompted to come speak at the school. He shared his story of substance abuse, how it impacted his life, and his road to recovery. His approach was similar to Herren’s, although for some people it was easier to connect with him because he is a normal guy and is a part of our community. After sharing his story he told listeners what they could do to prevent addiction and the priority of character. He pointed out the importance in always having supporters, which he referred to as your “board of directors,” that you’re close enough with to share your problems and have support from them no matter the circumstance.

Whalen and Herren had similar messages to listeners with a common goal that their story would impact at least one listener in a positive way. Their two moving speeches are perfect examples of people reaching out to better our community and guide students in the right direction.

Opinions Editor Amanda Ippolito contributed to this article.

Wilson may be reached at [email protected]

Ippolito may be reached at [email protected]