Dear old State

In light of this weeks developing tragic news at Penn State, I have decided to write a brief post reflecting on my personal thoughts and feelings. Penn State has played too significant of a role in my life for me to remain silent.

Like most Penn Staters I have been struggling with many emotions this week and am still processing the horrific events that have unfolded. I'm heartbroken and angry that innocent boys had to endure such unthinkable acts. I'm saddened and disappointed by the inactions of University leaders who I've respected. I'm supportive of the difficult decisions being made this week. I'm hopeful that the Penn State community will use this time of regrowth to raise awareness about child abuse and continue to succeed with honor. I'm proud of the efforts by students and alumni to show their solidarity against the tragedy and help the school move forward.

Despite all of emotions, I am still and always will be proud to be a Penn State Nittany Lion. I am still and always will be loyal to dear old State. And when I've become so numb with sadness and anger after listening to the news, reading articles and browsing Facebook statuses, I turn to a familiar song for consolation....

For the glory of old State,

For her founders strong and great,

For the future that we wait,

Raise the song, raise the song.

Sing our love and loyalty,

Sing our hopes that bright and free,

Rest O Mother dear with thee,

All with thee, all with thee.

When we stood at childhood's gate,

Shapeless in the hands of fate,

Thou didst mold us dear old State,

Dear old State, dear old State.

May no act of ours bring shame,

To one heart that loves thy name,

May our lives but swell thy fame,

Dear old State, dear old State.

WE ARE still PENN STATE!