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The Words We Sing?

The Words We Sing? Make Them Ring!

One of the ongoing projects of the Kappa Kappa Psi Alumni Association is the revitalization of the Fraternity Song. More information regarding Fraternity Song history and teaching videos can be found at https://www.kkpsi.org/song It was my pleasure to lead a Fraternity Song workshop at the 2019 Centennial Convention. A video of that session is available on the Fraternity’s Facebook page at: https://www. facebook.com/KappaKappaPsi/videos/508252313328686/

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During the convention, I was asked by some brothers what the words to the Fraternity Song meant. I must admit that I was caught a bit off guard by that question and gave some quick comments. Now, I am sure that I had to think about them and give my thoughts on them way back in 1984 when I was becoming a member. However, I can honestly say that I had not given them critical thought in quite some time. So, some 36 years later, here is what the Fraternity Song currently means to me.

For college bands we strive to do our utmost: This is who we exist for, our purpose and our motto. Pledged are we to the Kappa Kappa Psi: Stating our personal commitment to honor our purpose and motto. Fraternal spirit, brotherhood and loyalty: What do we, individually and collectively, bring to and receive back from the fraternity? Gather round, ye Kappa Kappa Psi: Join me brothers as we strengthen and support each other. This brotherhood that binds us all together: And as we serve together, this is what ritualistically takes place. It will be strong and never will die: For assurance, just look at and remember those who went before us. It’s built on love we have for our fraternity: This is what they felt, what they still feel and what we are building. Here’s a toast! To Kappa Kappa Psi: Thank you, my brothers! TO KAPPA KAPPA PSI! And I mean every brother everywhere since 1919!!

This prompted me to think about the words to the Fraternity Hymn. I presented my thoughts to the original composer of The Hymn for any comments or suggestions. I will keep his full comments to myself but will simply say that he fully endorsed what I derived and now present to you.

K-K-Psi: Who am I singing about and/or to? As we go through this wilderness here below I am not alone as I live on this earth. Guide my feet through peaceful eyes Hopefully, I have learned how to be an honorable and humble servant. I am a brother of K-K-Psi. Who am I and how do I identify myself? I do not know how long ‘twill be As a young brother looking ahead, I have no idea how long I may live. Or what the future holds for me Nor do I know where my path will eventually take me. But this I know, if I must die. But as I age, what type of person should I strive to be? I am a brother of K-K-Psi. AEA: This is a worthy goal! I do not know how long ‘twill be As an older brother looking back, how have I lived my life so far? Or what the future holds for me If I were to die now, how would I be remembered? But this I know, if I must die. Every moment, I get closer to becoming a memory. I am a brother of K-K-Psi. And when a memory I have become. Did I AEA?

Brothers, in my humble opinion, these two songs speak to who we are and what we should strive to be. I encourage you to think about what these words mean to you. You don’t have to agree with my interpretation, but don’t disagree until you give them thought! Words have meaning that can create and lead to very different emotions. If we don’t internalize them, there is a likelihood that any “theatrics” will overshadow the words, robbing them of their meaning and leave nothing but the memory of what used to be. So, when I say: The Words We Sing? Make Them Ring!...........I really mean ring from the heart, for that’s where we keep that which is most precious. AEA!

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