Four years ago, a guy named Harrison Keely arrived on the college campus I attended.  He was only one in several hundred freshmen students, but quickly became well known around campus for holding the door open for anyone (and I mean anyone) who crossed his path, sunshine or rain.  Some students mocked him, but Harrison didn’t care; he wasn’t doing it for attention or to make a name for himself.  He just liked to serve others as Jesus might and holding the doors open seemed like an obvious choice.

Our paths eventually crossed and we quickly became friends; one night after my date to one of my college formals had to bail due to a family death, Harrison was gracious enough to step in as my date for the evening.  We’ve had a lot of fun memories since then; I’m honored to call Harrison my friend.

Harrison will graduate from college in just a few weeks, leaving behind an impressive legacy.  He’s served in all kinds of clubs and organizations on our campus, perhaps most notably as the editor of the university’s newspaper.  This morning I was on the front row when faculty from the university recognized him as their choice for the top student in his department.  As I sat there watching him receive his award, I couldn’t help but think about just how much he’ll be remembered for when he graduates.

But I think I’ll prefer to remember him standing in the rain, holding open the door for me.