I just got back from Muster. If you are not certain of what Muster is let me break it down, the best I can. Muster is one of the most amazing traditions that you can experience (I'm trying not to be biased). Muster is what makes A&M so special, it is a reinforcement of the family feeling that one can expect from Aggieland. I am so honored to be part of this. Anyways every year on April 21st Aggies from all over the world congregate together in areas to remember and honor the Aggies that passed away. In honoring them we are also recognizing the fact that one's spirit does not die after your time on earth is gone. In a way it is almost an echo of what I said yesterday on my Easter post, "Death does not have the last word." Seriously if you have never been to a Muster, you need to experience it.
Memory #84
Before college I had unfortunately attended two musters. One for my cousin Troy and one for my lovely mother. I don't remember a whole lot of the muster for Troy, I remember that I got to sit next to my dad as he held the candle in honor of him but I don't remember the day leading up to it or anything that happened after it. To be in the middle of that ceremony, while tragic, can be one of the most healing things I've yet to witness. As corny as that sounds. That was one of the moments I really decided to dedicate my life trying to go to Texas A&M, and behold. Here I am.
While this memory doesn't include my mother physically I thought I would talk about my own mother's muster. Unfortunately we could not call her name out on the College Station roll call, as we didn't meet any of the requirements, so we had to do one in Williamson county in the school's cafeteria. I know that sounds so snotty, but this was my mom and all I could think about was how I thought she deserved to be honored in College Station. Anyways I was also the one who got to hold her candle, to represent her undying spirit, and call out here in place of my mom. Which is something I will always hold close to my heart but probably one of the saddest things I've had to do. Texas A&M meant a lot to my mom and I'm incredibly grateful that I get to have a similar experience and get to know my mom better through the school she loved.
And on a random side note- I have an official letter saying that I can make my mom's Aggie ring into my own Aggie ring. So WHOOP!
Love Always,
Erin
It was disappointing not to have Muster for Melinda at Reed Arena as that site has so much meaning for this family. Troy was working there at the time of his death and we honored him at the Reed Arena Muster. I really went to bat for Melinda's muster. I talked with the persons in charge of the CS Muster several times. I could not convince them that she qualified because her daughter had been accepted as a student for fall classes. But the criteria was you had to actually be enrolled and attending class. So it was just a matter of timing. I am glad you were able to attend Muster at CS this week. It is so meaningful and I know your mom was there with you in spirit. I'm so happy you've received official OK to make your mom's ring your ring. I know she would be so pleased.oxoxo's
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