You are right, a pep rally doesn't take one very far, and the real work begins after.  But we can all be inspired to use our own talents for the greater good (not for ego and hatred).  That's all any speech can do, appeal to our best instincts and the desire to use them.  I want to live in a world where other people have the needed skills to make a good life for themselves and their families.  So my work is really a bit selfish.