What would the founder of your chapter think today? Would they be proud to call themselves the founder of your chapter? This question that popped into my head after my initiation. The founders of our chapter worked to create our houses, and the rituals and ceremonies they created all meant something so special to them.   

Reciting our chapter’s creeds and symphonies and performing our rituals, we often overlook what the words we say and the actions we take truly mean. We often do not live out the values and promises we discuss in those ceremonies with our everyday behavior. Our rituals and creeds teach us to be the best people we can be, putting into words how we should respect others, and stand up for what is right. It is important to put these words into action and live according to what you say.  

People join fraternities and sororities for so many reasons, and each house is made up of many different types of people, each group with their own unique opinions, thoughts, and personalities. However, we join this organization to share experiences with people who share our common values. Each member is grounded in their chapter’s values: from community service, academics, making a difference, and taking care of each other. It is important to live out those values not just during sorority or fraternity ceremonies, or simply when you are wearing your letters, but every single second of every single day. The way you act and conduct yourself says a lot about what your house’s values truly are.   

When we join a house, we promise to better that organization and live the best life we can. It is up to us to live out our organizations values and bring them to life. Challenge yourself and those in your chapter to be the best people they can be. Live out the values that are clearly stated in your rituals, creeds, symphonies, and symbols. Take what you say you are going to do seriously, and act passionately on the opportunities your fraternity or sorority offers you.   

When you become a member of a chapter, you join an organization that is bigger than just yourself. Let’s make our founders proud.