Unity Gathering
Larry R. Faulkner
November 22, 1999
South Mall
The University of Texas at Austin
I have never met any of the victims of the bonfire tragedy in College Station. But I know them. Honor students, Eagle Scouts, cheerleaders. Young people who played the saxophone, flew airplanes, and paddled canoes. I know them because I recognize their exuberance for life. They loved learning new things and collecting new experiences. I recognize that spirit because it's what imbues this campus with energy, promise, and hope. We all know them, and we will remember them.
In the last days, we have been reminded that despite our rivalry, our two universities have much in common. We have recalled that we are drawn from and serve the same larger community. We have learned that we are both of the people and for the people of Texas. We have discovered that years of competition have bred a deep--if seldom expressed--respect for the family and traditions on the other side. During the past five days, that regard has found a voice. These are things that we will carry in our hearts and in our spirits for a long time.
Longhorns everywhere join me in sending our sincere condolences to the entire Aggie family and our best wishes for the healing of all wounds.
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