As this day comes to a close, it strikes me that the grieving may take longer than expected.  I’m not talking about the grieving of families/friends that were directly, closely affected.  Of course that is going to take a long time.  I’m speaking specifically about the grief that I share, the grief of the Hokie Nation.

Sitting here in Charlotte, I am physically detached from the events in Blacksburg by some 180 miles.  Emotionally….a much different story.  Several times today, the grief has overcome me.  The tears – a fresh reminder of what has happened.  They go away, only to come back later.  I know that will continue.  Those that know me – know me as a person who isn’t afraid to show emotion.

The emotion showed during today’s beautiful convocation at the Cassell.  I was moved deeply by the clear signal sent by all in attendance very early – back off Charles Steger.  What a well deserved ovation.  Then came Gov. Kaine.  If there was ever a man who would have had an excuse for a sub-par performance, he’s your guy.  Flying in from Tokyo, no doubt tired and weary, he provided a truly inspiring speech.  Leading our country through yet another horrific incident, President Bush delivered wonderful, comforting words.  All of this was to be expected.  What I didn’t count on was an other-worldly battle cry from poet Nikki Giovanni. 

As if the service wasn’t uplifting enough, Giovanni’s words were followed by such a sweet sound: 

“Let’s Go Hokies”. 

Amen.  Let’s go, Hokies. 

I keep reminding myself of one of the most telling ideals of the Christian faith.  God doesn’t give heavy burdens to the weak.  Those most trying of trials are placed on the backs of the strong and able. 

Let’s go, Hokies.

This incident will be our legacy for generations to come.  How we, as a proud Hokie Nation, respond…will guide that legacy.

Let’s go, Hokies.

The grief will be in our hearts and in our minds for a long time.   But the hope of better days will begin to shine through.

Let’s go, Hokies.

It is our burden now to memorialize those that have fallen.  We certainly didn’t ask for this burden.  But it is ours to accept and carry through.

Let’s go, Hokies.