John Waters emphasized that true wealth does not just come from money but from the quality of people around you. He advised graduates that avoiding "assholes" in life is the key to feeling rich, suggesting personal choices greatly influence one’s well-being. Waters stressed that being selectively inclusive should be a priority for anyone entering the professional world.
Waters provocatively remarked, "It’s OK to hate the poor, too, but only the poor of spirit." He explained that a person could be financially rich but poor in curiosity and growth, underscoring the importance of an inquisitive and open mindset as key to personal wealth and fulfillment. This distinction highlights his belief that character and mindset ultimately dictate one's quality of life.
In a candid statement, Waters dismissed the notion of karma, saying, "So many of my talented great friends are dead and so many of the fools I've met and loathed are still alive." This reflects his perspective on fairness in life, emphasizing that talent doesn't guarantee longevity or success, and life often operates outside the realm of justice.
Waters concluded his address by reiterating the importance of surrounding oneself with the right people. He shared his philosophy that wealth is defined by one’s choices and associations in life, offering an irreverent but thought-provoking message to graduates about the foundations of a fulfilling career and life.
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