Speech at Tulane University - Ellen Degeneres

Really when I look back on it, I wouldn't change a thing. I mean, it was soimportant for me to lose everything because I found out what the mostimportant thing is, to be true to yourself. Ultimately, that's what's gotten me tothis place. I don't live in fear, I'm free, I have no secrets. and I know I'll alwaysbe ok, because no matter what, I know who I am.So In conclusion, when I was younger I thought success was somethingdifferent. I thought when I grow up, I want to be famous. I want to be a star. Iwant to be in movies. When I grew up I want to see the world, drive nice cars, Iwant to have groupies. But my idea of success is different today. And as yougrow, you'll realize the definition of success changes. For many of you, today,success is being able to hold down 20 shots of tequila. For me, the mostimportant thing in your life is to live your life with integrity, and not to give into peer pressure; to try to be something that you're not. To live your life as anhonest and compassionate person; to contribute in some way.So to conclude my conclusion: follow your passion, stay true to yourself. Neverfollow anyone else's path, unless you're in the woods and you're lost and yousee a path, and by all means you should follow that. Don't give advice, it willcome back and bite you in the ass. Don't take anyone's advice. So my advice toyou is to be true to yourself and everything will be fine.