What Oprah's Harvard Commencement Speech Taught Me

Yesterday, I read CNN's article on Oprah's speech at Harvard University's 362nd commencement ceremony.

I learned that in all of Oprah's interviews with famous people from all over the world--presidents, celebrities, businessmen, even criminals--she discovered they all shared one thing in common: they needed validation. 

After interviewing both the famous and the unknown, Oprah reflects, "They ask, 'Was that OK?' I've heard that from President Bush, I heard that from President Obama, I even heard that from Beyonce in all her Beyonceness. They all want to know one thing: Was that OK? Did you hear me, did you see me, did what I said mean anything to you?"

Was that OK? Was I OK? 

All of us share that need, and today, I remember the profound importance of validation. I hear you. I see you. What you share means everything to me.

You are OK.

(And Oprah concluded her speech by asking the crowd, "Was that OK?")

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If you need validation today, remember you're not alone.