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Importance of Sabath

“… God rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done.” In the second chapter of Genesis, God models required and appropriate behavior for each of us. Known as Sabbath, the Creator of humanity affirms that rest and reflection is necessary for all of us to remain focused, energized and effective.

With commencement activities for the academic year now behind us, a time of Sabbath has arrived for the students of Davis & Elkins. The campus is quieter and replacing the hustle and bustle of the semester is a conspicuously slower pace. (A practical advantage is that parking seems to be plentiful!) Like our lives, there are seasons to a campus community and times for the pace of life to accelerate or slow. The natural ebb and flow keeps life interesting, keeps us refreshed and rested and enables us to appreciate the changes from one day to the next.

Painted on a wooden plaque hanging in our home are the words: “Life is a journey, not a race!” Since assuming the presidency of Davis & Elkins College this past August, I have been contemplating the truth of these simple words. For all of us, life can easily become a race … whether the “rat race” of deadlines and things to be accomplished, or our tendency to be goal or destination oriented and forget to enjoy the journey. I am old enough to have learned that life is not about the destination, it is about the journey. Only the wise among us will take the gift of time to pause, reflect and give thanks for the people, relationships and experiences we encounter along the journey.

“Reflecting Along the Journey,” this weekly column, has been a labor of love. Few people have the privilege of communicating weekly with several thousand alumni and friends of the college, plus local residents through The Inter-Mountain. I am grateful for this privilege and opportunity. I have attempted to keep this column fresh and remain concentrated on my reflections concerning D&E, namely the journey with students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends. I am grateful for so many that communicate either by email or personal comments regarding the content of these reflections weekly. It is my strong desire to encourage two-way communication.

Recognizing the importance of Sabbath for reflection and restoration, I plan to take a hiatus from this weekly column for a few weeks. Before long, it will be time for the campus to prepare for the return of students and the familiar flurry of activity.

I look forward to sharing more of my reflections with you as the ebb and flow of our lives continues. Until that time, I hope each of you find time and opportunity for Sabbath along your journey this summer. Remember, life is a journey, not a race. Enjoy your travels. The journey continues. …

Chris A. Wood is president of Davis & Elkins College.

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