I think we can all agree that this planet is awesome. Kathy and I enjoy Marion’s Main Street Christmas decorations in the evenings and the views of the surrounding mountains. However, if we’re not careful, we can become numb to it over time. A sunrise and sunset become just the beginning and ending of another day. The mountains become a driving obstacle. The forest becomes something we pass through on the way to our next destination.
Creation becomes ordinary unless we embrace the same wonder and awe that children have during the Christmas season. At the Rotary of Marion's Christmas party, the children's excitement and curiosity were contagious, for those who let it happen. It reminded me of watching a child catch a first fish or a teenager experience the thrill of driving a car for the first time. If we remain open to it, seeing a sunset over the mountains or Christmas lights in a neighborhood with child-like eyes can still feel awesome to us, too.
If we let it, the outdoor economy in McDowell County will continue to be awesome; if possible, even more so. McDowell Tech trains students with the skills needed to preserve that awesomeness on the trails, at campgrounds, and throughout the tourism industry. As people enjoy the outdoors, they also support local restaurants, hotels, and small businesses across our city, town, and communities. Kathy and I may be new here, but we can clearly see the awesomeness. We hope that you can, too.
Just as nature finds its purpose in being experienced and appreciated, the college’s deepest values are reflected in its relationship with students. Seeing students successfully complete a course, finish a semester, or graduate this fall has been awesome to witness. More than 1,800 students completed workforce continuing education courses this fall. In addition, 155 first-time curriculum students completed their first semester, and 70 students completed their degree programs and graduated. Each of these individual accomplishments is awesome.
As Christmas approaches, I hope we can rediscover the deeper awesomeness of the season: the joy of time with family and friends, the wonder found in children’s excitement, and the gift of the true spiritual meaning of Christmas. All of it is awesome, if we let ourselves see it.
Visit www.mcdowelltech.edu to explore awesome career opportunities. You may just find that McDowell Tech is Right Where You Belong.
