Hold Fast. Stay True.
If I had to title the chapter of my life that began at UJ, I would title it “Hold Fast, Stay True”. I come from a rough, humbling neighborhood in Miami, Florida. My vision of the world was very narrow before my time here at UJ. My desire for more, paired with what I believe to be an opportunity from God, is honestly what prompted me to come all the way out to North Dakota.
Prior to coming here, I had never envisioned myself way in North Dakota, let alone playing football here. I had never even seen snow before now. I came here with expectations that have been tested since my first steps on campus.
I had this notion that God had finally set me up to win easily. I was sadly mistaken.
I got here, and the world as I knew it immediately flipped upside down. My faith and trust in God were tested like never before. I couldn’t believe the things I was experiencing. Football was just something I’d never been a part of, my grades were at an all-time low, and I missed my family like crazy.
The bible speaks a lot about long suffering.
We forget that suffering is a part of this life, but you have to get through it. I found true mentorship here with Coach Mistro, Coach Ryder and Chaplin Candace. Those three have been my rock and my brothers, like Cedric Terry has been my family. They taught me to hold fast to the process and stay true to my assignment.
My campus ministry team has also been a light in my life, and I am forever grateful for them. UJ has afforded me the opportunity to meet people who truly care for the well-being of the next man. I found my extended family here. I am forever indebted to UJ for it.
