Texas A & M is a school known for tradition . . . lots and lots of them. My daughter, a current Ag, loves this aspect of her school. This weekend, her father and I experienced another of these traditions with her. As she is entering the final stretch towards graduation, she qualifies for her Aggie ring. Understand, this isn't just any ring. Only one manufacturer; all rings are alike (there are a few variations, but anyone who wears the ring will recognize a fellow ring-wearer); before any student can purchase a ring, the university completes a 'Ring Audit', meaning the student must qualify; rings are only presented at specific ceremonies; and there is a lot of 'Whoop' hoop-la that goes with the presentation.
My daughter wears an Aggie T-shirt that says, "From the outside looking in, it's impossible to understand. From the inside looking out, it's impossible to explain."
More than one alumni from other schools, have mocked the Aggie tradition. (My Alma Marta isn't A & M, but our house has learned to bleed Maroon over the past several years.) Gotta tell you, the T-shirt really does say it all. If you're not an Aggie, or living with one, it's impossible to understand the intense pride and dedication to tradition. However, if you are one, it's a beacon which illuminates tenacity, and determination, and celebrates accomplishments.
So to my daughter, who is all things brilliant and beautiful, I say, 'You make my heart sing. I'm so proud that you've never quit. When it has been the most difficult thing you've attempted, you've 'ponied' up and followed through. You will be successful. Those in life, gifted with your tenacity and sense of determination, always are.
Happy Ring Day, sweetheart. May this be a moment you will always remember.
7 comments:
Oh that is a wonderful post Sandra. I'm sure the day will be stupendous!
Aww, congrats to your daughter! That sounds very exciting :)
Completely awe inspiring :) Congratulations, Mary!! And congrats to Mom & Dad for all the great parenting and support. You all deserve a pat on the back. Well done, Fergusons :)
I can say the only appropriate thing at such a time as this:
WHOOOOOOP!
:)Gig 'Em
Congrats to your daughter and to her parents :). I love the ring ceremony and what it represents... Thanks for sharing that with us, Sandra!
Thanks for the happy words. I think she's still staring at her hand . . . don't know how much studying she'll get done this week, but hey, everyone should have a moment in time this special.
What a wonderful, wonderful tradition, and congrats to your daughter for achieving this coveted ring. And big congrats to Ma and Pa Ferguson for raising such an amazing daughter.
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