2319: Cheers to 1 Year
Hey Friends,
Last week, I mentioned writing about the significance of wrapping the Maypole, a May Day tradition, but I hadn't realized how close May was approaching. April was over in a flash.
Recently, music and weather have seemed to flow together perfectly, triggering memories of my elementary school days at St. Andrew’s Episcopal School, where I studied until seventh grade before transferring to Madison Central. Both were paramount to my development, but this week, I'll focus on St. Andrew’s.
St. Andrew's is divided into three schools: lower, middle, and upper. The lower school participates in May Day traditions like themed dances and wrapping the Maypole at the end of the year, marking the transition to the next grade—a symbolic rite of passage. My early school years at St. Andrew's spanned pre-K to fourth grade, and May Day activities like dances and presentations took place on the football field, feeling like a massive event—something all students remember and return to watch as alumni.
The year that all lower school students look forward to is fourth grade, when they wrap the Maypole. By then, it was hard to grasp that at the end of the year, I would be wrapping the Maypole and moving on to middle school. The dance is performed to "Waltz of the Flowers," a song that recently brought back vivid memories of May Day while I was studying. I recognized the melody, remembering the countless hours of practice and finally getting it right on the day.
I remember taking pictures after the Maypole ceremony and another event nearby, making the day feel like a graduation. The day held great significance for myself and my classmates and their families. I still have my purple sash from that day, a reminder of my growth and experiences. Seeing it in my room brings back memories of that day. Memories of warm seasons, spring and summer, in the South are also triggered by the sight of that sash. Maybe one of these days I'll put my sash in a frame, but until then I'll continue to let it hang freely.
A lot of reflecting on May Day traditions, enjoying the outdoors, and appreciating the Southern way of life—spending time outside, enjoying warm weather, and connecting with nature. It also brings to mind my one-year anniversary of writing this “2319”. It started as a digital journal that was very hesitant about sharing with everyone. I wasn't sure where this journey would lead, balancing life, friendships, and future medical school. But now I see the value in sharing stories, learning from each other, and relating to one another. In months, years, and decades to come I can look back at my thought processes and how I was feeling while on the road to my MD. It's a reminder to myself, but it's really cool, and I'm proud of myself. Can't stop now!
If Spotify could give you a count of how many times you've listened to a song before the annual 'Spotify Wrapped,' I'd have at least 100 listens this week alone of “Up Down" by Morgan Wallen featuring FGL. which captures the essence of Mississippi summers—spending hot sunny days with friends, on boats or by the water, fishing, and having a good time. It's a reminder of the hardworking yet laid-back Southern lifestyle, and how it differs from other regions, like the Midwest.
Reflecting on April, I feel grateful for all the experiences it brought, both good and bad because they were opportunities to learn and grow. To those graduating this year, I cannot say congratulations enough. Remember to enjoy your day and allow yourself to be celebrated. Reflect on the times that you thought there was no light on the other side and see how that was just a mental hurdle that you have clearly hurdled.
Peace,
Zechariah Davis
Song of the week:
- "Up Down"
- Morgan Wallen, ft Florida Georgia Line
Quote of the week:
- "Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards."
- – Søren Kierkegaard
Scripture of the Week:
Where it all started :
Zechariah Davis
- A year ago, as I was leaving Walmart with my line-brother, Christopher Buie, we had gone to pick up mulch for my mom. Unfortunately, this Walmart and other similar large stores nearby didn't have what we needed. Going from store to store and having interesting interactions made this day "Chaotic". With college graduation looming, I felt a sense of inadequacy about my achievements. This prompted me to start journaling my thoughts, which led to my first post. Initially, I named my newsletter "Letter of News"—not the most distinctive title, but I figured the right name would eventually come to me, and it did. Here’s to one year of "2319"! Each post means more than just posting something but my commitment to consistency and pushing through on the shitty days. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported this journey.
Looking to spread the word about the latest issue of '2319'? Simply copy this link and share it through text, social media, or email:
2319.ghost.io/1-year-2319/
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