Perspective (August, 2009)
“Time and its passage changes all things. One place, however, has sustained a spirit and tradition for so long, its story has evolved into legend.”
-John Facenda from NFL Films Wake up the Echoes: The History of Notre Dame Football -
The University of Notre Dame means something different to everyone. For some, it is an elite Catholic institution of higher learning. Others recognize it as a traditional college football powerhouse rich in mystic and excellence.
For me, it encompasses all of that and more. Most importantly, it is my family comprised of men and women from all backgrounds of life. Many fell in love with Notre Dame back in the glory days of Rockne and Leahy as Catholic immigrants were proud to call something their own. These people passed a love and respect down to future generations which possess the same esteem. A proud few have been able to attend this magnificent school and been indoctrinated first-hand on what it means to be a graduate of Our Lady’s University. A final few are fascinated with the aura of this place and cannot get enough of it.
For my first article, I want to give some context on where I come from so you understand the lens in which I write. I am what is commonly referred to as a legacy.
My father graduated from Notre Dame in 1973, my mother from St. Mary’s in 1977, my older sister from Notre Dame in 2003, and myself from Notre Dame in 2007. My knowledge of this place started at a very young age.
I knew the Notre Dame Victory March before the Hail Mary, one of my first memories of life was hanging a sign on our front door when Tim Brown won the Heisman, and the first football season I can fully remember was the 1988 National Championship Team. I just assumed that I would go to school there until my mom informed me in 2nd grade that you actually had to do well academically to obtain admission. From that moment on, I consciously made decisions in my life in order to go to school there, I understand what it means to make sacrifices to achieve a dream, and I love Notre Dame with all my heart.
So you can understand why I wear a Gold and Blue badge of honor 365 days a year and do not tolerate anyone that tries to disrespect my Notre Dame Family.
In future posts, I intend to draw from my experiences, friends, and family to give you an insight in terms of what it feels like to be part of this special thing everyday. Coincidently, this website launched right before autumn so most of the proceeding stories will revolve around the football season. Please understand that although this is a huge part of Notre Dame for me, there is so much more. I hope you enjoy and I would love to hear your feedback that could spark future topics.
In glory everlasting: God, Country, Notre Dame.
