This is a note from Scott Banks, VT alum, who took the pictures in the post below...
I made the trip to Virginia Tech yesterday (Sunday) at the suggestion of my wife. She knows how much I love the University and felt that I should be there. She was right. It was a bit like visiting a good friend that lost a family member. I wanted to be there to support them. I also needed to be there so I could deal with the loss myself.
Just as we arrived we saw two other friends from Raleigh and you could see she had been crying. Her two sons, both at Virginia Tech now, were with them. As we had not seen all the memorials he described them by saying “It’s like attending church multiple times”. I think this says it all.
Unlike a week ago the sky was bright blue and the weather was perfect. Across the drill field were tents and areas with flowers, notes, candles and other items placed in memory to those who lost their lives in this tragedy. Every tree was tied with a black ribbon with an orange and maroon bow. Although there were quite a few people on the field it was so quiet all you heard was the birds chirping. I don’t think I can describe the feeling, but you knew God was present.
We did not talk much about the tragedy, but more about our days at Virginia Tech. And although this was 25 years ago the memories are still strong. I think that’s the best way to handle things like this, remembering the good times.
In front of Burris Hall were engraved stones with the names of every person who died, even Cho. Most had messages of remembrance, flowers and pictures. Cho’s place had flowers and a note to his family expressing sympathy. If students can do this then I think perhaps there is hope.
Not only has the Tech community come together but so has the nation. Universities from across America have sent boards with thousands of signatures. Grade schools had made cards. I saw one note from preschoolers who could just barely sign their name. Everyone has been touched and everyone wants to help.
I have been asked two questions recently; the first friend asked if all the campus is beautiful as what we saw on television. It is and more so. The second asked if they should send their son to Tech. The answer is yes and if ever I have the chance I would love for my daughters to go to Tech. It’s a special place drawn closer by tragedy.
The one picture with note to Brian telling him “to have fun walking with Jesus” brought me to tears. The line below, “Can’t wait to see you again”, brought me promise.
God be with us all, especially the families of those who died.
Scott
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