Our lives grow and transform within communities. In living life, we encounter, interact with, and become part of a variety of communities. The depth of the interaction varies from community to community based on our intentions, values, and vision and the values and vision of the community encountered. The relationships with the community and its members move along a continuum dependent on the circumstances and intentions involved by the varying individuals and community whole.
I reflect
on a community first encountered 23 years ago during the summer prior to my
junior year of high school and relationships that have formed over those years.
Summer of 1994, I visited Georgetown College with my cousin who was entering
his senior year of high school. Of the schools we visited, Georgetown is the
one that captured my attention. The following summer, I spent two weeks on
campus as part of the Pre-Academic Experience in Math and Science program. Then
fall of 1996, I arrived on campus as an incoming freshman to proceed to
graduation in spring 2000. Seventeen years later, I continue to return to campus
yearly for homecoming festivities and enjoy seeing where the community is,
meeting new people, and cultivating past relationships.
Reflecting
back on the conversations of the day, a smile radiates from my inner soul and
shines on my face. The Georgetown College community is more than a community.
It is a family that loves, cares for, and walks with its members day in and day
out. Times have not always been easy, but those family members who believe in
the true vision of Georgetown College continue to stand steadfast and make a
difference.
The
relationships formed at Georgetown College pre, during, and post attendance
have no boundaries. The lovely thing about a small liberal arts campus is you
get to know a lot of people whom you never had class with and who you may have
only met at gatherings like Homecoming. I spoke in depth with nine professors
only having had two in class and another I knew but did not interact with
during my undergraduate years. I engaged with administrators and staff, whom have
only arrived since I graduated. Of course, there are fellow alumni members, who I knew
in undergrad or have met afterwards. Lastly, there are encounters with current
students. I enjoyed meeting up with a current student, who I have known for
about 9 years now. She started last year, 20 years after I, and is also now a
sorority sister. It is great to walk with her and experience Georgetown through
her eyes 20 years later.
The day was
beautiful in many ways from weather to relationships. I enjoyed reminiscing on
times of old, catching-up on the lives of many, hearing the amazing things
happening on campus, and being inspired by alumni, faculty, staff, and
students. I also missed some usual faces and conversations. I never know what
awaits when I arrive for homecoming festivities, but I always leave with a
smile on my face and joy in my heart from the reconnections and new
connections. It encourages me to continue going out sharing in God’s love and
compassion as we all make a small rippling difference in this world. Thanks to
the entire Georgetown College family from fellow alumni, faculty, staff,
administrators, and current students!
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