OPEN UP . .. to Wildcat spirit ill he first time I can remember hearing the term "Wildcat Spirit" was at the mixer my seventh grade year. Coach Tony Felker was head coach at the time, and he had a very enthusiastic speech at the pep rally which centered around the topic of how the crowd determined the amount of Wildcat Spirit we would have that year. I thought at the time that I understood what Wildcat Spirit was; I had been to many Academy football games, and I knew how excited the crowd could get at times. Even when it looked like the other team could have pulled off a victory, the students and parents on the Academy side continued to give their full support to the Academy football team. Through the last seven years, Wildcat Spirit has taken on a new meaning to me. Not only do we give our support to the football team, but at Harding Academy, friends give one another support and strength in every aspect of life. The spirit that has been labelled and made famous as "Wildcat Spirit" entails every aspect of life of the people who are involved with Harding Academy. My friends and teachers have provided so much love, support, and encouragement throughout the last seven years, and there have been many times that the words of encouragement they offered gave me the strength to survive the day. The spirit that is found at Harding Academy, I believe, is the evidence of people who are striving to live like Christ. Because the majority of the students and faculty of Harding Academy are striving to live like Christ, the support comes through on the football field, within the drama department, in the classroom, and outside of school activities. I truly believe that the fellowship of the first century Christians shared can be found at Harding Academy; all we have to do is open up to our brothers and sisters in Christ. Don't be afraid to tell your friends that you love them, and don't hesitate to tell someone that you appreciate what they've done either for you or for the school. The only way we can ever become the fully united body we are aiming for is by getting to know each other. Look for people to serve. Christ has given us the best example of how to live, and He spent His entire life serving others; a selfish act cannot be found in His life. Aim for perfection and you will be more satisfied with your life. 11tt - Lisa Underwood Introduction 297
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