A-Phi Founders, sisters: An appreciation

[TechAPhi]

I attended the Atlanta Alpha Phi Founder's Day celebration today. I arrived at the event with my best friend and Alpha Phi sister who had flown in from Texas to go along with me. Even though I am the webmaster for the ATL Phi Alums, my weird work schedule has not permitted me to attend any meetings since 2002. So I was a little bit nervous -- walking into a room of strangers.

As I entered the room, several women actually remembered my name and welcomed me. That made me feel so good and reminded me of why I love my Alpha Phi sisters so much. It doesn't matter how much time has gone by, Alpha Phi and your A-Phi sisters will always be there for you. To make you feel welcome. To be a friend in an unfamiliar city. To make you laugh...

I was asked to read the part of one of our original ten founders as a part of a ceremony. I was to play the part of Ida Houghton. We all read our parts as if we were the founder, telling everyone a bit about her life and then leaving the audience with something to think about -- a legacy from that founder. Ida was described as being the "welcome wagon" -- the one who made everyone feel at home. She went out her way to make friends and be hospitable. Her charge to us today was to strive to be friendly and welcoming; to make others feel included and special -- as she had done in her life.

Today, I experienced such warmth and love from my Atlanta Alpha Phi sisters -- I was overwhelmed. They all applauded my friend and made her feel special too. That meant so much to both of us. So I just wanted to take a minute to appreciate our founders, particularly Ida Houghton. Today my Alpha Phi sisters were living Ida's legacy of warmth, friendliness and hospitality.