Benson to Mt. Carmel students: Let your faith shine

Ella Spiers
Mount Carmel Academy

Upon learning that Mrs. Gayle Benson, the principal owner of the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans, would speak about her faith to students at Mount Carmel Academy, I immediately began to look forward to the words she would share with us as a successful, prominent and selfless woman of Christ.

As we walked into the assembly center, she was easy to spot, even in a sea of people. It was not just because of her great style and elegance but also because of the brightness she exuded. Her poise and tranquility during her speech were inspiring and made it seem as if we had known her for years.

One story that struck close to my heart was when she discussed her personal experience in high school. She explained that, although she was never deemed a “popular” teenager, she kept her faith strong and stayed true to God despite possible mockery.

High school students, like myself, often hide characteristics to appeal to the majority. Mrs. Benson is frequently in the public eye. She chooses every day to center her life on Jesus Christ – the only pair of eyes that truly matter, despite others’ opinions.

Striving for popularity consumes many people’s lives and leads them to make decisions that hinder their true character. Being ashamed of one’s religious life should never be accepted just to appear more attractive or suitable.

As Student Council president, I get anxious when giving speeches and planning events. One might not be able to spot my nervousness, but on the inside, the unknown fear of messing up a pronunciation or failing at an event is constant. Seeing Mrs. Benson deliver an outstanding speech, while also maintaining her serenity, is a recurring memory from that day.

Trying to crack the code to her public-speaking abilities, I finally realized her secret is Jesus. Not one source could ever offer the peacefulness that having a strong relationship with God provides, and Mrs. Benson is a true testimony to that. Instead of spending my days worrying about a speech and sending myself into a frenzy, I will spend my time relying on God and strengthening my faith to provide me with the grace and calmness Mrs. Benson exemplifies.

Mrs. Benson is the Christ-like female we need today in business and our world. She is not just an example for our faith but also an example for aspiring young ladies and leaders.

In Mrs. Benson’s words, with God by our side, we should “never be intimidated by intimidating people.”

Mount Carmel Academy student Ella Spiers is a senior.