Ambassador

This is where I went to school, 33 years ago. As I walked the grounds today, I realized what a priviledge it was to have been able to live, learn, and gain lifetime friendships within this beautiful environment. Outwardly, the grounds look much the same. Historically, as with life, really nothing is the same, as this is no longer a University, but rather a piece of property split by a variety of ownerships used for different purposes. Yet as I walked about and was able to talk with a number of individuals there, a richer story unfolded. One of loyalty and maintaining a property site within its orginal mandate of beauty and historical and architectural significance. One of respect for the legacy of the original owner and purpose, a site that was created to provide a rich resource both for  individuals and the larger community of Pasadena. Some of the existing facilities are still working towards that purpose today. Story after story of change, and intended change came out. I realized that the ties of so many people who walked this campus through the decades are still connected, not only to each other, but also within the shared stories as we continue to share our past stories of being here with those who are there now. Down the road, there will be buildings torn down, and new ones built on a part of this property, and ownership too, will change. But within all these changes are the cornerstones that still mark out the originial dedication. It was inspiring to see that through the evolvement of the use of what was once a well known campus in the area, there is still much good coming out of it. This old campus will continue to change, yet still keep the foundation and ties from the past. It reminded me of our own lives...how we too go through so many changes, can look the same on the outside yet be transformed for different purposes through our seasons of life. As I walked through these grounds for the last time there was no sadness of what wasn't the same, only thankfulness that within all the changes that have and will come about, this property continues to thrive and be appreciated for what it continues to offer.