Judge Chris Edwards was the keystone speaker at the Baccalaureate ceremony for Fayette County High School in May 2000. His speech was printed by The Citizen on May 31, 2000, under the title, “You can’t change the world until you change.”

His eloquent words on the importance of persistence, integrity, friendship, self-improvement and morality so moved me that I saved the article for six years.

My husband and I have worked hard to raise our four children with these meaningful values, and we hope our children grow up to be persons of strong moral character.

I presented the article to our oldest son Steven upon his graduation from Starr’s Mill High School this year. He was just as impressed by its powerful words as I was. As he has just entered the Class of 2010 at the U.S. Air Force Academy, I am confident he will constantly strive to live by those ideals.

I want to thank Judge Edwards for setting the example for our young people by his exemplary service. He has made, and will continue to make, a difference in young lives. I hope he has the chance to make a positive impact for many more years to come.

Vicki Mudrinich
Fayetteville, Ga.