by Carolyn Moore (1998, MDiv)
Your Asbury experience isn’t over. In fact, I would argue that it is just beginning. Think of it like a good marriage. There is the ceremony, and that’s a wonderful milestone. But the marriage itself happens over time. It takes time for the relationship to deepen and become richer.
That’s been my experience as an Asbury alum. My connection to Asbury today is deeper and richer than it was when I was in your place fifteen years ago. This has been the best source of affirmation and encouragement over these years. I strongly encourage you to stay connected.
If I could get you to do three things right off the bat, here’s what I would have you do:
- Hang your diploma in your office. Its like having the voice of all these people behind me whenever I open my door. They are there as if to say, “Mr. Smith, I know you don’t think she’s all that smart, but we beg to differ. And we’re really smart people.”
- Develop a regular habit of listening to chapel as a way of reminding yourself you’re Wesleyan. Chapel streams three times each week, and you will hear some of the best sermons. More importantly, it is good to regularly drink from this theological fountain.
- Answer the phone when the phone-a-thon people call each January. Let them pray for you and then ask how you can get involved with the Alumni Association. And while you’re at it, get Tammy Cessna’s email address and ask her to give you something to do as an alum so you’re always tethered. It pays off … that’s a promise.