In the wake of Joe Paterno’s death, I decided to take a trip to view the meaningful and powerful Paterno statue outside of Beaver Stadium. Upon approaching the statue, one quickly comes to realize that the scene is one you would see at a cemetery, very somber and very mournful. Joe Paterno was more than just a football coach to Penn State, he was a father, a teacher, and a mentor. From standing off to the side of the statue, one can quickly realize how much he meant to the world. The flowers and tokens of gratitude seem almost never ending. The messages written by children, adults, students, alumni, professors, players, are heartfelt and powerful. For a man to influence so many people, most who had never met him even once, is incredible and is all the proof needed to explain how important he was to this community and this university. From the photo, one can see that the weather is nasty and cold, and it is raining. But this does not stop his supporters from paying homage to him and his legacy. I went to approach the wall that displays players names and a meaningful quote by Paterno himself to find there was a line wrapping down the sidewalk. I will honestly say I had no clue who Joseph Vincent Paterno was until I applied to Penn State, and was set back a bit by the amount of support for him after his death. I have known of him for about half a year, and I can wholeheartedly say that he has affected me in only positive ways. Through all the scandal, I always believed in Joe and felt part of the family, the Penn State family. The scarf, cold weather gear, the American flag, the myriad of shirt, candles, and flower bouquets are truly expressive of how much the community cared for Joe. This has been one hell of a year for the University and the community, but we still are Penn State. Rest is peace Joe.
