I can vividly remember April 16th, 2007 and everything I did that day. I remember hearing the news, feeling the panic and overwhelming feeling of fear, receiving the calls and messages from friends, loved ones and mere acquaintances to assure my own safety, and the sadness that overcame me as the numbers of lives lost continued to rise with each update.
Virginia Tech was my home. I fell in love with the colors orange and maroon. I learned that Hokie Stone builds the most beautiful structures. My fellow Hokie classmates were all my brothers and sisters, whether when we were studying at the library together, walking across the drillfield, or cheering our heads off at football games- we were One Hokie Nation.
And I couldn't be more proud to say that we are still One Strong Hokie Nation. That day did not conquer us. We have prevailed in the face of tragedy and terror. I can't begin to express the sadness I feel for those 32 people whose lives were taken far too soon, or for the families that had to cope with such a senseless and unfair circumstance. I also cannot express the immense pride I feel in how our small town of Blacksburg came together on that day and in the days, months, and years that have followed to display the most inspiring sense of unity I have ever been fortunate enough to be a part of.
I choose not to acknowledge the individual who brought on the harm of that day. I know some people do and will continue to, but I will not. To me, those 32 innocent lives are who I continue to live for each and everyday. They will forever live on in my heart and in the hearts of all Hokies everywhere.
Today, and everyday, I remember. I will never forget. And I will continue to Live, Love, and Laugh for 32.
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