Thursday, April 19, 2007

Hokie Nation

By Chris

It's been a while, but Teresa appreciates it when I blog from the road . . . and a unique road it is this week. After "stopping by" Raleigh, NC for most of the day, I have made my way to Virginia Tech (like Teresa mentioned). It was a strange drive in to Tech country, through foggy, misty, gloomy mountains no less, listening to talk radio continue to analyze this week's tragedy, even as I headed to "ground zero." Teresa mentioned the kids at Tech had planned all year to hold their American Cancer Society Relay For Life, like thousands of other communities do in the spring, tomorrow. They (the incredibly talented and commited student volunteer organizers) decided a couple of days ago that they would carry on with a modified version of their event. Anybody would understand if they canceled. One of their top participants was one of those killed this week. But, carry on they wanted to do and carrying on they are. So here I am, hoping we can offer some meaningful support, encouragement or whatever else it is this incredible group of young people needs. I have not even been on campus yet (that will happen tomorrow morning), but you could feel the vibe of tragedy, pain, loss of this community from miles away through the displayed ribbons, road signs of support, etc. Satellite trucks are in parking lots.

Want to check out the Tech Relay kids' efforts? Go here

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

You are certainly the perfect person to be there to offer support and compassion. God Bless you and those to whom you minister today.

Zephra said...

Bless you and those poor souls.

Anonymous said...

I'm reading this a little late, but I hope the Relay went well. I'm proud of the Relay team for carrying on while still in their grief and pain.