A unique characteristic about the people on this campus is that half the people are invisible and the other half are blind. Which are you?
Dr. David Champouillon and I met in the school cafeteria and he is one of my favorite people to see on this campus and believe me, if he’s in proximity of you there is no way you can miss him!
Champouillon introduced himself to me in main meal because I saw him in the cafeteria every day and smiled at him because I smile at anybody I see on campus who looks my way.
I cannot remember the exact words but Champouillon said something along the lines that he had to know me because I acknowledged that he exists. He explained that people walk by him daily and pretend he isn’t there and he can’t understand how anyone could possibly miss him.
I felt good knowing that while some people have no clue why I smile at them, though I do not know them, some people truly appreciate that I choose to see them and shoot a friendly gesture their way.
I strongly believe our relationships on this campus define our relationships beyond college to a degree. I observe many people and their actions, and I’ve concluded some people are too scared to let others see them while others refuse to look a stranger in the eyes and give a smile of encouragement and acknowledgement.
I walk around this campus daily acknowledging and respecting the existence of others. I feel as though I have a unity with the people I come into contact with whether I know their name or not.
Many times after people see me around for so long they introduce themselves to me. Once I establish a friendly environment with a person, I have the great opportunity to sit with him or her at some point and just listen; I’ve learned that everyone wants someone to hear their story.
In order to hold a good conversation, many people think it’s necessary to talk but I’ve learned I gain the most from the conversations in which I simply listen.
Every single person on this campus has something to say or has gained something that they will gladly share with the world.
“If all you do is focus internally, you’re missing a great big world out there,” said. Champouillon
How true Champouillon When he and I had our first real conversation, I learned so much about his character. I learned how sincere David is about his career. You would be amazed to know the dedication and devotion he has for his career as a jazz professor and not because of what it is doing for him, but because of what it is doing for his students.
Champouillon is only one person making a difference at this university. Imagine how much more respect and appreciation we would have for other students and faculty members if we knew what each member – whether student, faculty or administration – of ETSU is doing to make this university a better place. This is the United States of America and if we are to be united as a country we must begin with those whom we are surrounded by daily. Once we see one another we will begin to see one another’s contributions.
So in a world of blindness I encourage you to open your eyes and see the great people who surround you.
And if you are one of those people who choose to be invisible I encourage you to open yourself up to the people in this world.
Each of us has something great to contribute, and if we choose to conceal our greatness from others our life is a waste.

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