Sigma Alpha Iota Symphony

Thanks for all the words of kindness and inspiration. Roger's post yesterday was pretty powerful, I agree. Now it's my turn.

Another thing that has been wandering around in my head is the Sigma Alpha Iota Symphony.  A little background:

In college, Roger was in the men's music fraternity (phi mu alpha sinfonia) and I was in the women's music fraternity (sigma alpha iota).  And yes, it was a FRATERNITY.  Anyway, the social circles in which we ran basically created the opportunities that allowed Roger and I to become friends and, later, a couple.

SAI was a huge part of my college life.  Not only are my best friends from college also my sisters but my involvement in the organization allowed me to develop my leadership skills which, in turn, helped in my life beyond college.  Although my formal involvement with SAI has waned over the years, the concepts of our sisterhood stay with me.

A few days ago, I started replaying in my head our Sigma Alpha Iota Symphony.  This is a poem/credo that I think frames our values as an organization and as individuals.  One of the first things we learned as pledges was the SAI Symphony.  The elements of the poem have different interpretations to each member but I often liken it to a scripture.  It's an inspirational piece of wisdom by which you live your life.

Since it has been on my mind, I thought I would share it with all of you (and no, I am not breaking some vow that will put me on double-secret probation by sharing it.  This is kind of "public knowledge" fraternity stuff...).  Shout out to my Sigma Chi SAI's: "That's NOT the secret knock!!!"


Anyway, here it is...

The Sigma Alpha Iota Symphony

To study and practice the goodness of life, the beauty of art, the meaning of music.

To sing the song of sincerity and universal peace.

To speak the words that build, that bless, that comfort.

To play the harpstrings of loving kindness, tolerance, appreciation, and genuine gratitude.

To strive for the joy of simplicity, for the noble.  To be faithful over a few things.

To listen, to be still, and to know the harmony from within.

To falter never in seeking loving service, wisdom, and understanding.

In a word, to be loyal to Sigma Alpha Iota and her teachings; to find joy, hope, and inspiration; to remember that "every good gift and every perfect gift is from above" and "whatsoever ye do, do it heartily as to the Lord and not unto men."

And again to practice.

This is to be our Symphony.

 

-Rachel (Charlotte's Mom)