Let me first say this: I am overwhelmed. Overwhelmed with love, goodness, beauty, kind hearts, giving spirits, and selfless people. Tears are beginning to form as I sit in the Beaman perplexed by the astoundingly unique environment I have been blessed to call my home: Belmont University.
I arrived to Nashville this year in a rush. Chaos and worry filled my spirit as I packed my bags and flew to a different state, eager and frantic with both excitement and panic to begin another year at one of my favorite places. I chose Belmont for specific reasons and became even more passionate about my school as my freshman year progressed and my time here lengthened. However, I don’t think I fully understood the overwhelming value of the people who surround me until I was able to see my experience, and the experiences of others, come full circle.
You see, Belmont is different. We are a college, yes, but we are so much deeper than an “educational institution.” And often, we are asked, “What makes Belmont tick? Why is it so special?” Today, I am certain that I have found the answer.
In the midst of all of my chaos, I have been reminded in subtle, individual ways, but each of those ways yield a plethora of overwhelming feelings. In a matter of two days, I have seen the family that is Belmont University absolutely pour their hearts and souls into creating a welcoming and exciting environment for the newest members of our campus—the class of 2019.
When I look around at these peers of mine, I see wisdom that is far beyond their years. I see maturity and care and love and outreach. I see community. I see group hugs and trust circles and a seeking for understanding. I see people moving boxes sweating from 90 degree heat, yet they look like they have just won the lottery. I see people give of their time and surrender the deepest parts of themselves for others. I have seen people love like Jesus.
With this being said, I want to say thank you to the Belmont community who has helped this week. Whether Orientation Council, TT leaders, chartered student organization leaders, administration, or faculty—you all fit into the integral puzzle piece of Belmont. You each bring something special. You give more than you have, and it does not go unnoticed.
You are the people I saw when I was a high school senior touring schools. You stood out to me because you were caring servants with outstretched arms. But now you exist as more than distant upperclassmen. You exist as my role models, my mentors, and as my best friends.
I have never been more proud than today to call you my home away from home. A year ago, I felt deep emotions and swelling tears forming because of the immense fear I had to make my new start alone at a new campus and in a big city. Today I sit in my apartment absolutely bawling from joy because I get to stay.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for becoming my home and the people I love more than anything in the world. You set joy ablaze like a wildfire, and I’m proud to call you mine.
