In a secluded local bar in St. Petersburg, Russia, my love for the state of Alabama was solidified when that familiar “bum-bun-bumna” from “Sweet Home Alabama” stopped me mid-conversation. An overwhelming sense of pride and nostalgia drowned me as memories, friends and family began to flood my mind, and that sweet Southern song carried me back to my sweet home. I’ve realized the state of Alabama and her people have made me who I am despite the numerous challenges and struggles our state faces. These challenges test me, push me to think differently and work harder. The places where our state falls short have kept me up late into the night and led me to have difficult conversations with people who dramatically disagree with me. But these challenges have also caused me to think critically and test the waters. They have helped me develop a sense of belonging and purpose for my life as an Alabamian.
The people of this state have taught me to love unconditionally. They have shown me the power of forgiveness and an open mind. Living in a homeless shelter in West Alabama, the residents there showed me how to approach every situation hoping to learn from those I encounter. The people in this state and at this university took me to Cuba, where I had the opportunity to meet new people and learn from their unique experiences and backgrounds. Great Alabamians have also taught me to ask the difficult questions and never stop searching to find the answers. One such question that I continue to look for an answer to is this: How do the values and culture of Alabama fit into my life now?
The Southern culture that has been ingrained in me still shapes the person I am becoming. The little things of Southern life, such as “yes ma’am,” thank you notes and knowing which glass of wine to drink from, have shown me the importance of respect, tradition and gratitude. Respect is not only for your elders, but for everyone. By learning to respect everyone, you can break barriers that once seemed too grand to bring down. Similarly, do not just show gratitude towards those that help or serve you in someway, but find ways to appreciate those who hurt you and slow you down. While this has been difficult at times, being grateful for those who have torn me apart has allowed me see every situation as an opportunity to learn and grow.
The traditions associated with Southern culture have challenged me and isolated me in the past; however, now I see them as opportunities to engage with the communities who have supported me and shaped me into the woman I am. For instance, I’ve realized you can show up Sunday morning in church with a smile on your face and an offering in your hand because it is what you are supposed to do, or you can find a reason to choose happiness and show up with a smile and discover a passion that instills in you an unending desire to give.
In finding a way to nourish my Southern roots while also allowing myself to blossom as an individual, I have found a way to harness what the state of Alabama has given and taught me to grow into the person I want to be. Thus, I am undoubtedly grateful for every Alabamian that has crossed my path, for every value and nicety that has been etched into my life; and for the great struggles and challenges that have been set before me.
Laura Freeman is a senior majoring in psychology and public health. She was the recipient of the Outstanding Senior of the Year award.
