This year has unquestionably been a hard one for most everyone connected to Baylor. Yet, the Bible tells us to “give thanks in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:18) — so, by His grace, we choose to be thankful.
What am I thankful for this year? Sure, there are the usual things about Baylor that, though they may not make headlines, are still happening on campus every day. There are still great teachers investing in great students — even living alongside them to invest more deeply in these young men and women. It’s still a campus where Christian faith is not only accepted, it’s encouraged. And it’s still a place where great scholarship and research is being conducted every day.
But more than anything, this year, I’m thankful for the Baylor family. I am thankful that, even in 2016, God has given us so many outstanding examples of His love, right within our own community. If you need that reminder too, check out these stories that all have taken place in just the past few months:
- The freshman who found out what “Baylor family” really means when he was diagnosed with lymphoma three weeks into his college career.
- The graduate student who learned the same lesson after her husband suffered a hemorrhagic stroke, when professors and fellow students stepped in to help her finish her degree.
- The professor who made national headlines just for a simple act of kindness toward a mother in his classroom.
- The former “dorm mom” who wanted nothing more for her 90th birthday than a reunion with her former students.
- The Baylor graduate-turned-teacher who used class photo day to teach her pre-K students a powerful lesson on caring for one another.
- The Baylor law student who overcame physical disability to not only graduate first in her class, but to fund a scholarship so others could follow in her path.
- The undergraduate student battling mental illness who found compassion and love at Baylor that helped him accomplish his dream of graduating.
- And the Baylor graduate facing terminal cancer who used her final days to serve others and share the Gospel.
Thank you, Baylor family, for continuing to be the hands and feet of Christ, even in hard times. I’m thankful to call myself part of this family; this Thanksgiving, I hope you are, too.
Sic ’em, Bears!