It had been a glorious day, perfect for football, dear friends, hugs from an endless parade of Eliza’s precious college friends. We were walking back from a visit to Old Mr. Knickerbocker’s (a little impromptu Christmas shopping—promises the new sweatshirt will NOT be worn early) when I looked right to see this.

over Tillman Hall

It stopped me in my tracks. So much that I love converged in that moment—tradition, connection, legacy, friendship—my prayer of gratitude painted before me, there in that Clemson sky. How blessed I have been in my life. How much I owe to this remarkable university.