Isaac M. Jordan-Day 1

The confidence of the founders of Sigma Chi was based upon a belief that the principles which they professed and the ideal of the Fraternity which they sought were but imperfectly bound by the organizations in which they were surrounded

The standard with which the Fraternity started was declared by Isaac M. Jordan to be that of admitting no man membership to Sigma Chi who is not believed to be

A Man of Good Character

A Student of Fair Ability

With Ambitious Purposes

A Congenial Disposition

Possessed of Good Morals

Having a High Sense of Honor and

A Deep Sense of Personal Responsibility

So begins I-week. An entire seven days of my life dedicated to the Fraternity. This week is meant to be much more than just being quiet (which I will have much difficulty doing), it's meant to teach me more about who I am and see how I relate to the fraternal ideals the founders set forth. This entire week is going to be challenging, interesting, and uplifting. I hope that I can stick to my beliefs, as a Christian, while still maintaining the bonds of brotherhood and preventing the outcasting of others. Prayers would be appreciated as I will have little contact with others during this week.

Other than that I'm excited. These past eight weeks, I have worked tirelessly to obtain this position. I struggled but at the same time maintained my persona. I hope that after this week, I will know more about myself, feel stronger and more secure in my beliefs, and continue to show others that I really am much more than the surface shows. Tonight, as we began our implied silence, it seemed surreal. As the lights turned off for the candle pass, I looked out the window to the sun setting in the autumn sky. Reflecting the oranges and golds of the fall foliage, I was content with making this decision. I was happy that I gained the relationships with the brothers. I can't wait for initiation, I can't wait to wear the old gold and blue, and I can't wait to wear the white cross and show the world what it stands for.

At the beginning of this pledging process, I was doubtful of how I would stand up for my beliefs as a Christian, I was worried that they wouldn't be accepted by the group as a whole. However, I now know that I can be who I am around these guys. Sigma Chi stands for much more than "frat parties," it's a friendship, it's a commitment, it's accepting, but most of all, it's a brotherhood.