Class of 2029 Eighth Grade Promotion: Finding My Wings with the Power of Kindness and Friendship

The following is an excerpt of a speech by Elia Kutner, one of several students chosen to speak at the Class of 2029 Eighth Grade Promotion. Read the other student speeches.

By Elia Kutner, member of the Class of 2029; Edited by the Eastside Catholic School Marketing and Communications Team

When I first walked into Eastside Catholic as a nervous seventh grader, I felt overwhelmed by the lively environment. I was the new kid, unsure if I’d find my place in this tight-knit community. I felt like a butterfly with tightly folded wings, hidden from the world, waiting for the courage to spread them and soar. Around me, I saw others confidently fluttering their vibrant wings, making me feel even more invisible. Even though I’ve always been outgoing, I wondered if I could truly belong.

But over time, EC became more than just a school—it became a garden where I flourished.

Before coming here, I honestly didn’t think kind people existed anymore. Sixth grade left me feeling alone, surrounded by people but still unseen. I was mistreated; my peers trampled on and damaging my wings, with hurtful comments and actions. I started to believe that meanness was the norm. But EC proved me wrong. Here, I found friends who were loving, listened and brought out the best version of myself. That’s when my wings began to unfold.

While reading The Outsiders in seventh grade, I had a revelation. In one of the most poignant moments of the book, Johnny tells Ponyboy, “Stay gold.” At first, I thought it meant stay true to yourself, but I’ve come to understand that there is a deeper message. It’s about how you look at the world, holding onto your sense of wonder, your kindness and your ability to see beauty even in the middle of pain. “Staying gold” is choosing to love when it’s easier to hurt, to care when it’s easier to ignore. The friends I’ve made at EC have been golden, and with their love, they helped me find my sparkle again.

Here, I found friends who were loving, listened and brought out the best version of myself.

I’ve seen how the power of one kind word can change someone’s day, and how simply being present can be enough. Matthew 7:12 says, “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” Also known as the golden rule, it reminds me that kindness and respect are the heart and soul of friendship. It’s a simple but powerful rule, that true friendships are not formed by convenience but by genuine love and care.

Jesus is the ultimate example of living a life influenced by the golden rule. He showed love, kindness and compassion to everyone, regardless of their background. Despite the hardships Jesus endured, he never failed to stay gold. He teaches us to take crumpled wings and smooth them out so they can soar.

As we head into high school, I hope we let this concept influence the way we live. Just as a butterfly can never fully see their own wings, we often don’t realize the kindness and strength we possess. It is through the care we show and the friendships we build that our true colors shine brightest. By following in the footsteps of Jesus, we can be the reason someone’s wings are brave enough to open.

Thank you, EC, for teaching me to stay gold and for giving me the confidence to fly.

If you have questions about the Eighth Grade Promotion speeches, contact Middle School Principal Ashley Hylton.

Want to learn more about Eastside Catholic School's Touchstones, the core values that shape our community and inspire our students every day. Visit our website to learn how these principles come to life in academics, faith and service.