Heading down to my Alma Mater to celebrate a new generation, and I can hardly believe the passing of time. Texas A&M University- it’s been too long, and I may or may not have teared up as that skyline came into view. Former Student is right- you never stop being an Aggie. So much has changed, yet as the saying goes, so much remains the same, and I am thankful once again that tradition here runs deep.

Senior boots are a big, big deal, and I’m so proud of my nephew tonight. As I stand on Simpson Drill field looking out at A&M’s finest lined up in rows, dreams written across their young faces, I wonder where the time has gone. Twenty- five years ago they were my peers, and now they are our children, nieces, nephews, and grandchildren. In no time at all, we’re the middle aged visitors to these hallowed halls that used to be ours, and they are our hope for tomorrow. It hits different when they’re yours and the world that we’re handing them is on fire with peace upended.

But today- they are invincible. Youthful eyes bright with hopes not yet realized and courage for life’s battles they’ve yet to fight. Newly minted young men and women, the last remnants of childhood melted away in the Texas sun.

And those seniors on the sidelines- so full of life and vigor, cigar smoke swirling around their heads as they sing and sway to that War Hymn I know so well. Reassuring us all that the Spirit of Aggieland does indeed live on. They are the kings of the day, and every one of us knows it.

Congratulations, my fellow Aggies- the best of your lives lie before you, and we are so proud of you all. Now go and do great things. Return with honor, and Gig’em👍🏻