Ditches and Ringing Bells

      Ah, the infamous, yet similarly famous, bell tower at Lee University. It is said that if two people walk under the tower as the bell rings, the two are destined to be together. It has to be the will of GOD! Sure. We can go with that. Personally, I believe it is ridiculous in a way. Yes, the story of the first couple who walked under the bell tower when it rang was probably precious, but after that, the thought of it makes students go out of their way to go around the structure. It is interesting to sit and watch students as they approach the monument. The obvious path is a straight shot under the bell tower. However, almost everyone makes a point to walk around.

     Anyway, the "ring by spring" slogan ties into the myth of the bell tower. The notion that students need to become engaged by the spring semester seems outlandish. Especially for those enrolled in their first semester. As a freshman myself, I can hardly keep two of the same socks paired together, so the thought of committing to something of that importance seems impossible to me. Now, for those who make the decision to get engaged early, more power to them. Personally, I feel as if one semester is not long enough to truly get to know someone enough for a commitment to marriage. Strong, lasting bonds are created by spending a great amount of time together. So, in essence, although I am not completely discrediting the idea of love at first sight, I will say that it takes more than just sight to love a person. As my youth pastor once said, "You don't fall in love, you fall in ditches." I believe this is credibly information to live by and shouldn't be taken lightly 

     The ringing of a scheduled bell does not decide the spouse of an individual. Devoting one's time and energy towards getting to know someone does. I do not claim to be a match maker or a relationship counselor by any means whatsoever. I am actually pretty clueless in the subject, as are most guys my age. Anyway, this idea may actually put more on students' shoulders. And I think it is safe to say there is enough on all of our shoulders already. So take things one day at a time and take some time to get settled. Go forth and mingle, but watch out for ditches and ringing bells.