Being the Light

Senior Virginia Keen spoke in Chapel this spring about how her final theatrical role as Lumière in “Beauty and the Beast” perfectly encapsulated her time at Episcopal. An excerpt from her speech follows.

Last weekend, I played Lumière in our school’s production of “Beauty and the Beast.” Lumière the candlestick both figuratively and literally serves as a light during dark and desolate moments. His sole purpose is to serve and ensure that everyone is happy and having a good time, which is reflected in his energy and his treatment of others. As I worked on developing Lumière as a character, I realized I have strived to embody this same type of character and spirit throughout my time at Episcopal.

I greatly enjoyed the beginning of my time at Episcopal, from the traditions of Dorm Games and The Game, to the rigor of my new courses and late-night dorm camaraderie. Life was good, and life was fun at EHS. September turned to December, and the cold, dark winter moved in. As a girl from Florida, I was used to sunshine and salty air all year long. In December in Florida, I would oftentime take a quick dip in the ocean after classes to rejuvenate and refresh. Clearly, plunging in the EHS pond was not a viable alternative! I found myself missing the sunlight.

As I experienced my first sense of the “winter blues,” I felt low and isolated. Looking back, I see how different people reached out and shared their light in various ways. For example, Caroline Nolan, my next-door neighbor, would bring me into her room for late-night ice cream, movies, and conversation. My monitors and prefects were like big sisters and were always there for me. After the passing of my grandmother, all of my teachers (particularly Mrs. Pugh on dorm) comforted and surrounded me with compassion. In the counseling office, Ms. Kollaros always had an open door and was an additional source of strength. With all of this support, the “blues” dissipated and the sun started to appear out from the clouds.

During my sophomore year, I made an active choice to surround myself with people who were encouraging and uplifting as winter arrived and the Covid-19 pandemic continued. In turn, I now felt equipped to help others. During the infamous Covid year, it was easy for many people to focus on the challenges and negatives around us; however, there were also so many things to be grateful for and so many positives to accentuate.

I tried to think of different ways to lift people’s spirits, however goofy the activity might be. As spring arrived, a few close friends challenged me to secretly suit up as the Easter Bunny and hop around campus. While it might seem silly, many said it brought a smile to their face or made them laugh. I felt like I truly came into my own and gained confidence during this period.

This led to my willingness to define myself in new ways and try different things that I had always wanted to do. Last winter, instead of doing indoor track and field again, I ventured out of my comfort zone, and tried out for “Legally Blonde.” I was assigned a smaller role, and I purposed to infuse my character with impact and meaning.

With theater, my EHS world opened up to a whole new wonderful group of people. I made valuable friendships, had a blast performing, and experienced joy throughout the winter. Flash forward to this year, there wasn’t even a question as to whether I would try out for the musical. After auditions, I learned that I had been assigned the part of Lumière. I was thrilled. I strengthened my friendships from the year before and made new friends in the present cast. The part gave me the chance to be humorous on stage, and perhaps bring joy and light to others.

It’s hard to believe that my time at Episcopal is coming to a close, because it has shaped so much of who I am. Coming here was truly the best decision I’ve ever made. As in life in general, there have been highs and lows, but I am grateful for the individuals and community that have been here to support me.

In the end, I’ve learned you don’t need gold metallic pants and a bunny costume to give light to others. I believe we can all spread light and support for each other here on The Holy Hill and beyond to have a positive influence in ways that we may not be aware of. This light isn’t necessarily a spotlight on you; it’s giving that light away to others.