Each year we ask our classmates a straightforward, simple question taken from the lines of a poem by Pulitzer Prize-winning author, Mary Oliver. We share with you intimate and candid responses to this question, "Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?" Concept and photography: Tony Deifell, MBA 2002.
Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?
The fateful weekend before Hurricane Katrina’s landfall, my mother’s voice rang. “Pack a bag, we’re leaving tonight.” In my youthful naivety, I stuffed a backpack with homework and video games, blissfully unaware of the devastation barreling towards the city. I would never submit the homework I completed on the ride out because my school was destroyed.
In the coming days adrift in a sea of upheaval, my family would relocate to Houston, Texas, as newly minted refugees.
In those roughest hours, however, the simple kindness and support from a new community would reveal itself. At my new school, I was left a seat at the lunch table, a wordless message—“you are welcomed here.” Neighbors offered us warm meals and other genuine acts of kindness that helped as we laid down new roots.
I will pay it forward by creating spaces overflowing with unconditional welcome, so we can weather any storm together.
