RESPECTFUL

Today, 74 years ago, the greatest man I ever knew was born. Unfortunately, he is not here to celebrate with us. Shame on cancer.

In his honor, I am posting the AU Creed. I never realized until writing this blog how much of the Creed corresponds with Big's life. Big Daddy didn't go to Auburn, though he was certainly defaulted into the AU family by the rest of us. The last weekend of his life, I was at their house with my mom and was studying for my weekly Camp War Eagle test. I said the Creed for him and when I was finished, asked him if he liked it. He nodded.

If he was as old or poetic as George Petrie was, I'm sure he'd have written it first.


"I believe that this is a practical world and that I can count only on what I earn. Therefore, I believe in work, hard work.

I believe in education, which gives me the knowledge to work wisely and trains my mind and my hands to work skillfully.

I believe in honesty and truthfulness, without which I cannot win the respect and confidence of my fellow men.

I believe in a sound mind, in a sound body and a spirit that is not afraid, and in clean sports that develop these qualities.

I believe in obedience to law because it protects the rights of all.

I believe in the human touch, which cultivates sympathy with my fellow men and mutual helpfulness and brings happiness for all.

I believe in my country, because it is a land of freedom and because it is my own home, and that I can best serve that country by doing justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly with my God.

And because Auburn men and women believe in these things, I believe in Auburn and love it."