A New Vision of the American Dream
Thanks to the students, their families and faculty who welcomed me as the keynote speaker for the UC Berkeley 2009 Commencement Convocation. This invitation was indeed an honor. As I related to those in attendance, given that my young son and I had once upon a time slept on the UC Berkeley campus when no other accommodations were available to us, being invited to give this commencement address felt like a graduation for me as well. My address focused on “A New Vision of the American Dream”. Other versions of the video are linked on our video page, and we’ve also posted my speech as a MP3 download. We’re also working on a transcript of the speech.




17 Comments
With Chris Gardner we have a
fantastic unique example of a GREAT
human being!!!
wonderful and from the heart, where it all begins, my friends.
I have seen the pursuit of happyness moves many times, I really love the way in which Mr. Gardner looks after his son in those difficult situations. I really really love it Dear Gardner. You are really a great example for every body that all is not lost. It’s too late but I really want to congratulate you on your achievements and way you handled yourself.
Excellent speech from someone who really knows whats its like to keep trying against all odds. Still ‘in pursuit’ I know I can keep going. Very best wishes Suzanne
One of my greatest fears is struggling until my ship comes in and the desperate measures that I will endure until then. The trials that Mr. Gardner experienced in his time, I don’t think that I could’ve had that much strength. This tells me that although I think I have it bad, there are so many people out there that have it or has had to go through much more than I’m going through. Thanks, to Mr. Gardner for sharing his life and being a beacon of hope for us all.
What a wonderful reminder of what really matters. I would love to have you come to our city and speak to inspire those we seek to help and those who give their hearts to their community. Seriously! There’s so much that we want to do.
06/20/2009 I have just finished watching the movie for the first time. I have to say that I found it difficult and had to switch away more than once; a number of scenes were just too anxiety provoking for me. I cannot express my heart bursting feeling of admiration for a parent such as Mr. Gardner; or my admiration for a person who pushed himself through and beyond so many obstacles. You deserve kudos, love and respect. Best regards, Angela.
I have never been to any of your speeches, but I’ve watched The persuit of happiness. Mr Gardener, I admire your courage to continuosly follow your dream. I appreciate how you reminded some of us,about how important it is to show our children how much we love them. The continuous display of affection to your son was and is heart felt. Been from another country with a college education in accounting, I’m still hopefull of achieving my dream, but I don’t know where to start. Thank you Mr Gardener for bringing hope back to me and everyone else who needed it.
WOW!!!!!!!!
Mr. Gardner is made from the ‘substance’ and ‘stuff’ that visionaries are from. This man is destined to be a president.
He cuts to the chase and core of the meaning of life and has increadible insight. What a privilidge it is to hear him speak.
Chris you really are an amazing man and a true inspiration. You have used your life experiences to help people and have not let them destroy you. Your son and daughter must be so proud and are very lucky to have you as thier father and i’m sure your comment to that would be that your lucky to have them because thats the type of man you are. you deserve all your success. Good luck to you and your family and god bless you.
watching you now on CNN,thanks for sharing Your story makes others not so ashamed of similar circumstances which they found themselves in.A little less serious is that a lapis ring on your finger,what does it mean?
Chris Gardner is Beautiful, inside and outside. I have experienced Chris with Homeless People with no media around, He is Sincere, amazing and wonderful. He is one of the kindest Men I have ever met.
With all Respect,
Linda Winters-Williams
thanks for your life, its very inspiring and keep us motivated that whatever challenges in life we can overcome it
Hello There
err i keep getting an error when trying to skip to dha next article
Whats yer opinion on observe?
Greets
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L8er
Welcome
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Yours Sincerly