Dear Cato Sponsors,
My name is Michael Williams, and I want to thank you for the opportunity to participate in Cato University this summer. It was an amazing experience that I'll never forget.
I hardly know where to begin, but the first thing that comes to mind is the absolutely outstanding quality of the students that Dr. Palmer invited and that you sponsored. It was a pleasure and a priviledge to be among them. At most conferences it's expected that the lecturers will be engaging and informative, but I had no idea how much I would enjoy interacting with my fellow students over the course of the week, and how much I would learn from them. There were so many young adults -- from all around the country and from every walk of life -- and everyone had a different perspective on what it means to long and fight for a life of liberty. I made new friends that challenged my opinions as they shared their own, and I hope I'll keep them for a long time.
Even though I say I expected it, the lecturers were completely top-notch. It was exciting to interact with so many experienced and thoughtful freedom lovers, which isn't something I have much opportunity for in my usual surroundings. Normally I'm the one espousing the virtues of liberty and limited government and trying to guide others away from the Dark Side, and it was refreshing to be among so many teachers who, rather than needing convincing, were actually encouraging and directing me.
Again, thank you for giving from the fruits of your labor so that I could be where I am right now: furtively typing in my hotel room at 2:30 in the morning so that I get this thank-you written before any of my memories fade. Although we may never meet, I hope this letter inclines you to believe that your gift was worthwhile. I look forward to future involvement with the Cato Institute, and I hope that someday I'll be in your shoes and able to pass along the favor that you've given to me.
Sincerely,
Michael Williams
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