I'm writing from my birthplace. Yes, I was born in hotlanta, Ga. I made my move--or someone made it for me--when I was only two, but I digress. I can't tell you how impressed I am with Ashley and Ben--road warriors to say the least. They, like Taylor, have been patient with my prima donna-like antics. My visit to the home of country music, i.e., Nashville, was more eventful than I could have ever imagined. I realize Ashley mentioned "the judge" but I don't know whether she described our engagement at Tootsies, Paradise Palace, the White Horse Saloon and all the other Nashville establishments that took our hearts away. Imagine, I told my wife I was working. Conversations with Witt alum confirmed my belief that relationships are critical for our formation--ok too deep. We were treated to “shark tales” (a real shark bite no less) by Jack Nyiri class of 73, while Chris Patterson, class of 82, discussed his nostalgia-filled accounts of his Witt experience, and Leah, class of 04, remarked on her commitment to ‘philosophy’ –ok I gest. Remarkable it was to engage Witt alum. I had heard folks talk about the Witt family; this experience confirmed my suspicion that there really is something ‘there.’

If Nashville didn’t do the trick, Atlanta certainly put me over the top. Talking to alums and their respective others, I realized once again that the relationships are critical oh so critical. We hung out at the Park Tavern in Midtown bordering Piedmont Park. The spot was fantastic and the conversations were even better. Convincing Witt alum to share their stories for Ben’s open lens had its challenges, but once the stories started flowing, you couldn’t help but appreciate the authenticity that drives these folks. Please appreciate the fact that my undergrad experience was at Florida State University—30,000 thousand students. We didn’t have the opportunity to make these type of connections. Talking to Nicole about her life-affirming experiences at the hands of Carmiele Wilkerson and Mac continued to drive home the importance of relationships. After all, we have to be open to be moved by people. Students have the power to shape and influence our lives just as we, as faculty, have the power to shape their lives.

Overall, the hospitality and the warmth, including Mike Budney class of 05’s willingness to provide floor space in his (1)900 square foot apartment, reminds me of the importance of being part of a tight knit community. I can’t say I would be willing to wake up at 4 a.m. to drive 7 hours next year, but I do hope they will give me the opportunity to participate again. Did I say next year? Ashley and Ben still have 8 more days of Witt Nation fun left. Sorry I got ahead of myself.

Miguel

 Click here to see the photos and videos from Atlanta!