My SLU Experience of a Lifetime

I stood at the top of the steps looking out at the marble tomb. The wind slapped my cheeks as if to remind me that this was real life. I was about to lay the weath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Weeks before, I had written a paper about Abraham Lincoln and how he began as a nobody, but turned into one of our nation's greatest leaders. I submitted the paper to SLU, hoping I would be chosen for the honor to lay the wreath but slightly doubting my abilities. 

Then I waited.

Two days into SLU 201 in Washington D.C., I assumed they chose other winners to lay the wreath, but as we received announcements for the rest of the night, I was asked to come to the front of the large conference room. While up there, I was told that I was chosen to lay the wreath at the Arlington Cemetery. 

My heart skipped a beat. Was this real?! I looked around at the student leaders next to me who had also been chosen, our excitement obvious.

The next day was incredible. I took it all in. 

I was honored to have a VIP tour of the Arlington Cemetery, leading us to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. 

When we got to the top of the stairs, my heart began to pound hard. One of the guards gave each of us students laying the wreath a strong handshake and specific orders in what to do. In my mind, I was so nervous I would forget what to do! 

Finally the time came. We marched down the stairs in an orderly manner, placed our hands on the wreath, and saluted as they played "Taps." 

As the song played, my mind raced. I was standing where Presidents have stood. I was a part of one of the most honorable ceremonies.

Wow.

Laying the wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was such a privilege and a memory I will cherish always.

+++++

The only place I know that can provide experiences like these is SLU. 

Student Leadership University invites students to think, dream, and lead while providing boundless opportunities to grow in your leadership skills. I mean, where else can you go that gives you the chance to lay the wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?

I invite you to begin your journey at SLU where wisdom and life-changing experiences await. 

#slulead
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This is the Day

I woke up & had my quiet time outside where the weather was perfect & the sun had just risen. I thanked God for the beautiful day He created.

I went inside & checked my phone to see that my friend had texted me. He told me good morning and sent me Psalm 118:24 "This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." It was so sweet!

As the day went on, I began some of my chemistry homework. I realized how much was on my plate, and began to stress & panic over all that I had to do plus, I never got to do want to do now-a-days. I cried because of anger that God would let this day be filled with school instead of relaxing & fun. 

As I was crying, I knew I needed encouragement from the word. Immediately, my first thought went to Psalm 118:24. God has made this day. I am to rejoice & be glad in it. 

No matter what is in the mix of the day—school, fun, stress, or joy—God has made this day for our pleasure. 

Let us rejoice and be glad in it!