Worcester State University - Oak Leaf Yearbook (Worcester, MA)

Page 20 text:

Although our narrative is concluded, the les- sons generated by the lives of the men and women of the revolutionary days are as applic- able today in this bicentennial year as they were in those times. , It was John Dickenson, a prominent citizen of the revolutionary era who said that experi- ence should guide us, not philosophers.” As we set forth to create our own experiences, we should take time to reflect on how we got where we are and where we are going. The Revolution’s most positive aspect was that it created independence for our forebear- ers. Hopefully our undergraduate experience has likewise created an independent spirit in each of us. A contemporary historian, William Fowler asserts that it is unfortunate that the bicenten- nial may leave no long lasting implications on the nation. He contends that it ' s not really a celebration — it’s play. However, it is much too early to speculate upon whatever lasting ef- fects the bicentennial will have upon us. Yet, most of us realize the profound significance of the events which took place 200 years ago. It is the true meaning of those times we celebrate in this bicentennial year. So as we embark upon our own careers, let us profit from the actual experiences of those men and women of revolutionary times. Al- though some of them held political views dif- ferent from our own, it is difficult to question the integrity, sincerity and honesty of those who fought for what they believed. We might ponder the nobler aspects of their lives and adopt them as our own. Consider the self control portrayed by Bathesheba Spooner as she ascended the gallows. Question the loy- alty and integrity of Brigadier Ruggles as he abandoned his life style and fortune for a cause in which he believed. Think about the fierce- ness and devotion of Timothy Bigelow as he left his blacksmith shop to fan the fires of free- dom. Deliberate upon the determination, brav- ery and initiative exhibited by Deborah Sampson Gannett as she assumed an alien sex- ual identity in order to serve her country well. Contemplate the persistence of Henry Knox as he walked through the snows and rugged Berk- shire Hills to achieve his goal. If we truly reflect upon these deeds, we will know what the bicentennial is all about and our lives will be enriched by it.

Page 22 text:

Q vuwtAa, oferne CSd t dX du oXa fo y m ; fydiMadtori tA a ddt due I ' yoni de fiyeAetit to utove e tievattowA . avid GSd wn 18