When people hear Tennessee Volunteers, they think of Peyton Manning, Johnny Majors, or now Butch Jones. They hear Rocky Top booming through Neyland Stadium and see touchdowns in checkerboard end zones. They feel that undeniable passion, pride and spirit.
While these are most certainly things that encompass the Volunteer, it goes much further than that. Being a Volunteer is more than screaming and cheering at the top of your lungs every Saturday. It's more than owning checkerboard overalls. It's more than your blood running orange, and it's more than feeling like it's '98. No, being a Volunteer is so much more than that.
"One that beareth a torch shadoweth oneself to give light to others."
This is the Torchbearer's Creed. The Torchbearer is the official symbol of The University of Tennessee, and his light never goes out, no matter the challenges or strenuous conditions that may come. This creed truly embodies the identity of a Volunteer. It's something I hold dear to my heart and something to which I strive to live up to every day.
I've always had a fierce need to give, an immense passion for service, and a leading desire to make my community and the world a better place. While that's true, I'm continuously finding more meaning in the Torchbearer's Creed.
It's about aiming to be the best person you can be, so that in turn, you can encourage others to do the same. The Torchbearer's Creed reminds us to continue to be a beacon of light despite the struggles, hardships, and adversity that life brings. By being the light of the world, we give others permission and courage to shine their own light.
Being a Volunteer is helping those who can't help themselves. Vols help Vols. It's realizing that if it weren't for the grace of God, it could just as easily be you in the situation of needing assistance. Volunteering your time, money, talents, and other resources is not for the credit or recognition. No, it's about doing it because you have the ability to. It's genuinely wanting to lift the burden of others and wanting to make a difference.
Volunteers are leaders. Volunteers are servants. Volunteers are people who exemplify the very characteristics the Torchbearer represents.
It's an honor to be a Volunteer.
