There is a saying...
 

I have heard other people say something like "I didn't become an ABC, it's something I have always been". I too felt that sentiment when I pledged AXiD, and realized this even moreso once I was initiated and learned more about our history and story.

Not that it matters, I know that some people might say that it sounds corny. Still, I want to hear from people who felt that way, and still "live the ritual", without trying to, even after graduating and being in the "real world."

I find myself reconnecting with sisters many years later, and if I met them today, I would probably feel that same familiarity, that same intangible commonality, that I felt then. It's hard to explain.

"Living the ritual" probably refers to more abstract ideals that can be found in many rituals (and outside of Greekdom).

I haven't always been a Delta but I feel as though I was always destined for greatness in all endeavors. Such greatness includes DST. :)

When I hear a similar statement - "Alphas are born, not made" it's moreso a statement about hazing than it is about living the values of the organization.

Mentioned in the "paper vs pledging" argument?

Yeah, you could say that. You could also say it's a "strong selection" versus "strong education" argument. Not that they have to be exclusive, but people generally frame their arguments that way.

I don't believe that Alpha Kappa Alpha women are born; I think they are made. To me it is the character of the woman, nurtured by her upbringing, that makes for a good soror. It's what I look for in any woman who expresses an interest to me. The "strong education" can help to accentuate the positive qualities the woman already possesses. Without that character though, all the rest is just twiddling thumbs.

I somewhat agree. I do believe that certain innate qualities must be present. However, it is the nuturing that must facilitate actualization. There are many strong, intelligent women who COULD make good Deltas but only those who are interested and complete the initial process then participate in ongoing llifetime engagement will attain it.

Now *that* is a great way to say it. Kudos!

The Rose
 

I am a 44 year alum and the other day, a non-sorority friend sent me a message that had a yellow tea rose, our sorority flower, at the top. I could not help smiling and sent it on with love to all my sorority sisters for whom I had e-mail addresses. I heard from so many of them letting me know how much they enjoyed receiving the rose even after all these years.

Paula M
Sigma Delta Tau
Patrae Multi Spes Una
One Hope of Many People

I was a COB. I didn't have a ton to go on since I was new to the school, so I paid a lot of attention to each group's creed. I chose Phi Mu because I felt like my values matched up with their creed the best.

I would say that I was born to be a member of my chapter of my fraternity, but not necessarily a member of the national fraternity.

I have to say that I can relate to this emotion.

I honestly believe I was born to be a Phi Mu. I don't know if it might have happened had I been at some other schools/chapters, but I feel like it's apart of who I've been all of my life.