In a commencement speech for graduates at the University of South Carolina on Monday, former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush — a potential Republican candidate for president in 2016 — urged his audience to live life with the same energy as his father and the nation's 41st president, George H.W. Bush.
"No matter how many challenges you face, no matter how old you get, remember to have fun in life. Be like my dad, who turned 90 years old this year," said Bush, who did not address the 2016 election.
"Here's a guy who's lived a full, active life. He was shot out of the sky in World War II, he built a business, he served a generation of time in many different positions in public service, and he's had some incredibly painful losses in his life. But he has never stopped having fun."
Bush then provided some examples of the elder Bush's lifestyle, ranging from his tendency to wear colorful socks to skydiving — which he did this year on his 90th birthday, June 12.
"Or judging cheerleader competitions for the Houston Texans — I think that's on his highlight film for sure," Bush quipped.
"That's why he's my favorite person in the world. Of all time. And I suspect it's why many others respect and admire him as well."
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Bush's speech, which lasted about 10 minutes, also urged graduates to not "be afraid to shake things up" regarding their careers in an economy that is quickly evolving.
Bush was awarded the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Public Service before delivering his remarks.
The speech did not mention Bush's potential presidential aspirations, but on Sunday he announced plans to release roughly 250,000 emails from his days as governor — a move some see as a step toward running for the Oval Office. Bush also confirmed he will release an e-book about his days as governor of the Sunshine State next spring.
Bush made a joke about following in his father's footsteps by going into politics before telling graduates they should pursue their own paths in life.
"You can do what you want to do. Life is a lot better if you find your own reasons to do your own things," Bush said. "There's no motivation as powerful as wanting to do something for yourself and expecting more of yourself. This is your life. These are your goals, and if they matter to you, you'll do everything possible to achieve them."
In several
recent polls, Bush either leads or is tied with other potential Republican candidates who could launch a White House run.
Both his father and his brother, George W. Bush, the nation's 43rd president, have
encouraged Jeb Bush to run for the White House.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.