May 17, 2005

Today was the day we departed from Atlanta, Ga., headed for Johannesburg, South Africa. I swear, while being dropped off at the airport by my cousin, Tonia, I found myself getting full—very full—wondering why a little ol'
country boy from Lake Charles, La., was so fortunate to get the opportunity of a lifetime. I had to stop and realize that the God I serve is very real, and not because I'm so willing or deserving, but to whom much is given, much
is required. God has blessed me tenfold and I couldn't be more grateful.

Having recently graduated from the best institution in the world—Morehouse College—two days prior to our departure, I feel that I already have an opportunity to make a difference not only in my community and nation, but in the world. As I walked to the departure gate, I thought
about what it was I wanted to accomplish while in South Africa. I thought about the special people I was about to meet. I came to the conclusion that I want to show as much compassion and love to as many people as I could. I want to educate as many people as I can about the HIV/AIDS epidemic that is so horrible in Africa. I feel that I do not have to be "infected" with the
virus to be "affected" by the virus. I guess one of the reasons why I am so passionate about this serious issue is because most of the individuals who are being infected, as well as affected, look just like me. I would be foolish not to embrace this problem and try to see if we could start attacking it at the root. I feel that if I enter into South Africa with an open mind and an open heart, I will be able to accomplish all these things and much more. I am extremely, intensely excited about the trip!

Arthur Woodard ’05 graduated with a bachelor’s degree in computer science. When he returns from South Africa, he will begin an information security job with the U.S. government.

For more information on the Morehouse College Leadership Center, click here.(pdf)

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