Notes

Dear Donivan,

It is my belief that a person’s life is measured in the effect that they had on others. And if my philosophy is truly the case, you have achieved some sort of enlightenment. In each and every one of us, you have instilled a sense of confidence, and you have given us perhaps the most important capability of them all: a proficiency in debate.

For the real problems in the world do not stem from what nature throws at us, but rather what other humans do. And in order to catch the things they throw, you need to know how to change their own perception. In debate, we are creating ideas, and we are perfecting the perception we all have. Even if no one changes sides, everyone is given a clearer image of the situation.

You have built gifted this skill to all of us this year. I, for one, can testify for you as my main source of debate skills, and I'm sure many others can say the same. You have given us all a part of yourself, which which makes us all, in a sense, your progeny. Maybe progeny of the mind, but in Model UN, we are all family nonetheless. We all believe in one another, and even when we are lashing out with the most fierce of our arguments, we are giving one another strength and support. You have created such a special, I daresay sacred, atmosphere, that is the perfect estuary of whimsy, competitiveness, and learning.

All I can say, Donivan, is that there are many ways to fulfill a life, and you have struck the chord of more than one, and you continue to do so every year. No one comes under your gaze and out the same person. Enlighten us all, and continue being the light you are that both helps us out of the night and drives us forward through the day.

Continue being you, because you is a very special person.

As ever,
Jared