Bethel University - Spire Yearbook (St Paul, MN)

Page 26 text:

My friend, tonight I struggle for the words to share the memories in my heart and the illusive message that I might share with those who are not as far along their heart's path. Perhaps I might begin where you are— At Twenty-One A lifetime of memories behind you, an eternity ahecd. Which one is more overwhelming? The past is known. Lived. Loved. Regretted. Missed. Forgotten. Yet, you are your past. The struggles that brought triumpns and failures, laughter and tears; all that is a part of your experience is now a part of you. Already you have lived, learned, loved, and suffe'ed much. These lessons are a part of growing. But you are also your future. You stand at the open door—much behind you, and much ahead. It is not easy to step out boldly, to leave the warmth and security of a hearthful of friends and familiar places. It is not easy to say goodbye, to jojrney out there where it is cold, and dark, and lonely. It isn't easy, but you must. This too is a part of growing. You will learn. Yoj will earn you are not alone, even when you are lonely. The world can be a dismal place, but you carry a light within that brightens the way you walk and gives warmth to those who also seek. Yes, be a seeker, though you have found the Answer. Seek to serve and share in the Light. Warm the world with your p'esence. Give of what you have been given—not in the words of things only, but in doings. These are the gifts that cannot be buried, broken, or lost. And be a singer—a singer of love and hope to a sometimes hopeless and loveless world. Harmonize with the hearts of others who know the same song and teach it to those who ask of its message. Tune your soul to that which is kind and gentle. Revel in the beauty that is housed in even that smallest or awe-filled creation—the acorn, the tnuncerstorm. Listen, and come not to fear, but to know the heights of joy and the depths of despair. For wisdom comes not to the closed heart or nested spirit, but to the open one that soars toward ever new horizons. Fly... knowing you have been, but also are beginning. You are called, Further up! Further in! This, for us all is the growing. Kathy Nevlns