Isn’t it weird what you keep close to your heart? I had a different idea for this article. I was going to write about Xavier’s impact on me. My brain was ready, but my heart wasn’t. Nope, it said, you’re not doing that. Instead, it tugged me towards somewhere smaller. Somewhere I’m realizing I’ll miss more than high school, because it was my stepping stone into it. My elementary school, Saint Matthew’s. 

Saint Matt’s was where I first found God, where I joyfully performed the lyrics to “Though The Mountains May Fall.” It was where I scraped my knees, made friends and swung as high as I could, letting my sneakers brush the clouds. Where my classmates and I waltzed through Titanic Day in elegant ball gowns and suits, honoring it’s passengers. Where we cheered during spider on the wall [a game where one literally hangs off a brick wall], our rainbow shirts reflecting springtime.

My high school experience, my entire life, is better because of St. Matt’s. I think of this whenever I sing, or pick up a book or dance around my room. I wouldn’t be doing what I love now if I hadn’t learned it then. What an influence those eight years made on my life. 

So underclassmen, please notice the small stuff more often. It matters, and you never know how important its role was in making you you. 

Finally, I want to address my St. Matt’s classmates. Whether you’re at Xavier or not, thanks for being part of the magic that made St. Matt’s special. I’ll remember the legendary sock hops and lively masses, our field trips and four square games for the rest of my life. I’m so grateful for the lifetime of memories, memories that I will always keep in my heart. Forever a mighty mighty Jaguar.