On my computer reside some unpublished drafts of a series about First Day Experiences in various situations, and I share a little on this topic in earlier posts such as The First 48 and FDE: College Athletics, but today the focus is on a positive opening day to a new semester that occurred this week on my campus. As hundreds of faculty gathered in the Grant Center for the start of a somewhat-back-to-normal-as-you-can-get during-a-pandemic session and the buzz of conversations (some through masks) sounded across the vast room, with a wooden tool handle in hand, Dr. Kelvin Moore took the small stage at the front of the room. After a few attempts to garner our attention, the room quieted and a master storyteller wove a narrative that captivated my attention and had me quietly pondering the powerful Life Lessons contained within his story of Charlie, his neighbor.

In my opinion, the story truly deserved some applause, but as Kelvin closed his story with a word of prayer, the moment for an appropriate clap fell away and we transitioned into thoughtful words by other leaders and into the business of the university. However, as I continued through my day, I wondered how engaging it must be to be a student in one of his classes and have the opportunity to hear more stories. Unfortunately, my opportunities only come from occasional chapels and presentations, and I’m honored when those wonderful moments occur. Throughout the morning, I found thoughts returning again and again to how delightful a start that was to my day and how extremely grateful I am for the tone it set for the remaining hours of that Wednesday.

As the morning continued into breakout sessions, I had the honor of serving on a panel with three amazing female faculty members who were given the arduous task of sharing how reading continually renews us. Our excitement for books was evident and perhaps a little too enthusiastic at times, but the intentional moment to share with colleagues about how God is using the amazing power of words in our lives was an energizing way to begin the semester and, in my mind, a great example of a successful First Day Experience as a faculty member. Add benefits such as a room of faculty willing to engage in discussion and new relationships being created with fellow colleagues who share a common interest, I could not help but walk away from the morning with a little extra pep in my step.

Then, as the day continued on, even the hot, miserable (meteorologist’s description, not mine) weather did not dampen the positive feelings that could have easily turned into vapor and been carried off in the wind. Instead the emotions hung as close as the sweat on my skin. (Can you feel my displeasure over August weather in Tennessee?). Apologies for veering off topic. Communications via email and social media sustained that energy and I pondered the anticipation of the new students arriving onto campus the following day. Will their First Day Experience mirror mine for the fall semester of 2021? Will the dedicated programming that has been invested in for so long create a Defining Moment in their lives? I pray this is so!

We only have one opportunity to create a memorable First Day Experience in each twenty-four hours. And although much of our First Days are planned by others, and I’m thankful for those who plan our faculty workshop and student experiences each year; I think it’s vital for each of us to invest a little time soul searching to evaluate the mindset we arrive with each morning. I want to be intentional that the Wake Left Behind me this year is similar to the Wake Left Behind from Kelvin, Beth Madison, Sabrina Warren, and Rebekah Whitaker. For this First Day Experience for fall 2021 has me prepared for a new academic year ahead and all of the blessings it will behold.

If you have a memorable First Day Experience that you would be willing to share, please take the time to comment below.