Splash

Recently, I watched an episode of How I Met Your Mother that was all about how, when you are stepping into a new stage of your life all you can see is the good of the previous stage. These goggles make you teary-eyed as you contemplate nice memories and charish the arguments and challenges. I wouldn't say these goggles distort the truth . . . they merely shed a nice, rosy tint. Needless to say, I have been wearing my own graduation goggles these last few weeks and days prior to my departure.


Picture this: I am sitting on my bed, in my room, in the middle of the organized chaos that is my life. Around me at arm's reach, I have sprawled tour books, work-outs, plans and other reading material. My departure is approximately 32 hours away and I am getting really excited about the new world I am about to step foot in. After all, the tour books make Eastern Europe look fantastic, what with their sunny skies and smiling faces. This feeling is bittersweet though, because to get to my new home, I will need to leave my old one behind. It's really tough to say goodbye - or see you (three months) later - to family, friends, even other community members, hobbies and routine. As I look past the foot of my bed, I notice my handidown golf clubs - who will go yet another spring without being used - and my poor hockey stick. (It will be so lonely this summer . . .) My dresser, just left of those, is covered with pictures of family, pictures of friends from highschool to first year to my don year. Sitting innocently next to those is the softball that helped my team win the Ontario championships one year. I know I will be coming back to many of the close relationships and good times that these items represent, but this summer abroad is yet another reminder that I am growing up. I will be missing a traditional summer at home while I learn about the outside world . . . becauuse there's so much more to life than days at the beach, sports, and even kinesiology (yes, I said it). As great as those are, and as difficult as it is for me to admit this, they're not the be-all, end-all.


As I realize there's more out there, I also realyize that I am growing out of the little sister, little girl role.  This is to be expected as life is full of transitions, but it feels like a revelation every time. As my mom would put it, my Beyond Borders experience is putting her kidneys particularly close to ther eyes. I fear this leak is genetic.


I continue to sit on my bed and take note of the chaos that has helped to form me. In a closet in one corner of my room, I have piled my awards - from MVP medals to recognition plaques, an olympic torch, and gifts from my SJ girls. They're all reminders of what I accomplished and what I will. Books are in another section, as is equipment and sentimental reminders. Then there are pictures. Pictures are scattered throughout because people are the glue that hold me together. Together, these things are a reminder of who I was, who I a and who I will be. Some memories and relationships have grown more vibrant while others have faded, but that's life. Situations change, people grow, and the human mind/heart is incredibly adaptive. As far as the lonliness goes for this summer, there's no reason to feel alone because just by reading this, you are on my journey with me.


Let's meet this challenge head on - and crash through it like we're breaking waves! (I'll pull you at times and I'm sure you'll need to block for me.) Here goes!

Waves of Excitement

This weekend has been gorgeous and that weather is really getting me excited for my summer in the Ukraine! I will miss being home with family and friends, but I know there will be a lot of good in the Ukraine as well. I am looking forward to learning my way around Ternopil and having days of fun activities and fresh air with the girls of Internat.

To add to my excitement, I spent Saturday afternoon at a local adventure store looking for equipment. The shopping experience certainly made this Beyond Borders journey feel more real. Can you believe I'll be leaving in just a tad over two weeks? And I'll be gone for three months. Tomorrow, my flights will be booked. I'll be leaving on April 28 and returning Aug 12.Yikes

A few people have asked me if I'm emotionally ready. My answers have been pretty noncommittal because I don't even know what I'm getting ready for. I can plan all I want but I've been told time and again that my experience will not be as planned. So, as far as being prepared goes, I am expecting the unexpected and will not be sure if I am ready until I get there. I'm sure I will have my doubts even when I'm in the Ukraine, but whatever happens, happens. I feel like I have done enough planning and risk assessment to last a lifetime but am fully aware that I have not covered every possible situation. I know what do to in an emergency and I have a plan for accessing money and communicating with home. Besides that, I' have to just deal with whatever comes up.

Emotionally, I feel like I need a bit more of a plan. I want to make sure I get a lot out of this experience but not at the expense of loosing connection with my dearest friends and family at home. I plan to stay connected and sane by calling home once a week,

Continuing to write blogs, possibly checking out facebook (but don't expect a response to messages left there), checking email a couple times per week, journaling and staying active. There's not gym in the area but I plan to work out in the morning, walk to my placement, and do activities with others in the afternoon.

I also plan to bring Jean Vanier's "Becoming human," and a couple other feel-good books. I know bringing my ipod is a risk, but I'll be bringing it anyway - gotta have some good tunes.

My comfort food consists of some peaches 'n cream oatmeal and some tea. I would bring chocolate chip cookies and peanut butter as well but I don't think they'd last the journey.

I also really like Wherther's and those white and green mints. These candies will also be good for giving to other people.

All this talk of coping strategies is giving me knots in my stomache. I can do it though . . . I know I can.

Thank you to all of you who helped make this experience possible. I am very appreciative of your financial contributions and could not have done it without your collective emotional support. I will be sure to keep you updated through my blog postings.

 For those of you who donated, I am sorry I could not organize a thank you dinner before I leave, but I will be sure to make a good Ukrainian home cooked dinner for you upon my return. (That is, once I have learned how to cook one!)

Thank you for your time, your concern, and your prayers.

Until next time,

Jess V

My Three Words

I was unable to take part in Tim's video but I would like to share my three words and my two cents:

Reveal. Ground. Do.

Beyond Borders reveals a lot: what different cultures are like, what challenges face the world, and how people like myself handle those challenges. The program reveals character.

I have felt grounded this term: I remain humbled by the experiences and works of others; my good fortune in comparison to some people's circumstances; and my limited (but growing) understanding of our world. I also feel rooted because the challenges I have faced in this program has brought me closer to family and friends.

Action words are not usually used to describe anything but I've learned that rules are usually simply strong suggestions - and that there are always exceptions. I felt it was appropriate to use action words because this program is all about taking action. There are many classes to attend and books to read about today's 'problems' but it take a special kind of program to allow you to experience them. Hence, my last word is "do."

Find Tim's Beyond Borders Video at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HLZuRmyJ4dY&feature=player_embedded

Seeing Ukraine

Let this be a reminder of the T part of BREATHE: Thank others for their help (meaning ask for help and use the resources provided). The following links were brought to my attention by Dr. Myroslaw Tataryn and help provide a much clearer picture of my home for this summer.

http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0108070.html?pageno=1 (Please is the magic word!)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ML0xqiJXyEw&feature=youtube_gdata_player

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YJBfJMgg1ug

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/programmes/fast_track/9429433.stm (Chocolate, beer and coffee. Challenge accepted J )

www.kievpost.com

 

Crisis

 Crisis - in existence and effect - is subjective.

This is a strong statement and could even be offending to some, given the obvious physical damage caused by natural disaster and the emotional scars caused by a significant loss. However I believe that one situation, shed in a new light can be totally different. I'd like to bring a few examples to mind to illustrate this: natural disasters, physical ailments, and mental or emotional breakdowns. As weak as these situations can make one feel, they each have their own way of bringing out the strength of human beings.

Natural  - as in environmental - disasters are difficult to overlook in times like today's, what with the waves whose damage never seems to dry and quakes that leave the whole world rattled. Yes there is physical, observable damage. There is loss and confusion, and there are countless tears of frustration. These emotions - the ones that churn your stomach and tear out your heart - are the same ones that show care for humanity, care for something. They pull people to action and give us a reason to remember whatever is outside our little lives. They bring out strength in a people. The media is full of news about damage done but it only takes one look into a store window or a school bulletin board to realize that our lives are becoming filled with others - and efforts to lend a hand, connecting however we can.

Physical and mental/emotional ailments can include anything from acute injury to the onset of a disease like cancer. Both could be terminal and leave lasting effects. I was reminded of this at the Relay for Life on Friday as participants gathered together to remember, honor and support the lives that have been touched by cancer. Severe illnesses like this and injury (like I will discuss later) are both life changers. I'm not sure what the most difficult part is - the actual changes that happen or the fear that life is only going to take a turn for the worst. My worst nightmare would be needing to go through something like that alone without people I love being with me or the hope of them being there for me when the battle subsides. This is why it is so important to remember to stick together. The Relay was an excellent demonstration of the strength of other people.  It stems from individual chains of courage and forms into a sturdy safety net. This event is a lasting reminder to lend a hand and connect in whatever way possible. I am sure people who suffer form cancer often feel isolated - as do people with disabilities, or those suffering depression, simple apathy, or mental breakdown - but if they are able to see that they are not alone in their trials, I think they (we) could be more at peace.

Even though we are not alone when facing these life challenges, we still need to figure out a way to address them. It’s interesting to examine our crisis response on a personal level. By nature, we physiologically enter our fight or flight response when we think survival is at risk. This response has stuck with us through evolution as a species from when it was necessary to run or fight to get away from danger. Although most problems of today’s world cannot be righted by either of those solutions, humans proceed to tighten our jaws and hips, increase heart rate, slow digestion, dilate our pupils and sweat when we feel threatened. The course of blood (and thus oxygen) flow is transferred from internal organs to the muscle and more superficial blood vessels. Rational thinking slows, as we are forced to respond instinctually. I expect this to be part of the reason people tend to act differently when under even chronic stress.

Like I mentioned in a previous blog, chronic stress causes different aspect of people’s personality – usually the ugly versions - to come to the surface. This is but one indication of the stress response and, like the fight or fight response, demonstrates discomfort. I think the alternate personality characteristics and fight or flight response could be connected since the physiological response could influence the emotional and intellectual pathways through changes in the flow of blood and hormones (e.g. Progesterone, which is produced to a greater extent in stressful situations).

Perhaps the reason situations are considered crises is that they happen unexpectedly and their effects are often out of control of the people involved. Gaining some control may be another way to have peace of mind. Whatever the reason or pattern, I would like to suggest a few coping strategies:

First, BREATHE. Back to that physiological response, deep breathing helps to circulate oxygen through the body and brain. The slow breathing that is required for deep breaths helps prevent or slow hyperventilation. The acronym, BREATHE, goes on with other suggestions about how to respond (or rather, evaluate before responding) to a threatening situation. The acronym, as taught in RS 383 is as follows:

Be still
Release the tension
Examine the situation
Accept the challenge (it is what it is...*)
Thank others for help and advice (use resources around you)
Handle one thing at a time
Engage (act, begin, move forward from the situation)

It’s easy to read, harder to remember, and even more of a challenge to actually do. Thus, I’ll give it to you again. This time, don’t just skim it. Actually read it and do it as you think of something that is or would bother you.

Be still
Release the tension
Examine the situation
Accept the challenge (it is what it is...*)
Thank others for help and advice (use resources around you)
Handle one thing at a time
Engage (act, begin, move forward from the situation)

One more time because third time’s the charm. Remember that this is your time that you took to sit and read this blog. There’s no sense rushing or focusing on something else right now because dividing your attention is not going to do you any more good than focusing on the here and now.

Be still
Release the tension
Examine the situation
Accept the challenge (it is what it is...*)
Thank others for help and advice (use resources around you)
Handle one thing at a time
Engage (act, begin, move forward from the situation)

Another thing you can do to control a situation is to change how you perceive it. Attitude is an important tool as it can change your perspective to a much more advantageous one. (Consider focusing on a hockey game by watching the puck only versus also being aware of each team’s positioning. A weak, blocked shot may seem like a failed attempt in the first scenario but if someone is set up for the rebound, that obstacle is actually an advantage.) 

The inspiration for this attitude strategy was brought to me by a fellow by the name of Michael Gardner. He was once a mechanical engineering student at the University of Waterloo and is now a public speaker with a degree from Laurier and a communications diploma from Conestoga. His storey goes like this:

Future shining bright, Micheal was on his way back to school with his girlfriend and a belly stuffed full of Portuguese cooking. Roads were slippery and, on the way back, the car he was in slid into the other lane and was struck by oncoming traffic. Micheal suffered many injuries including a severe brain injury that left him in a coma for three months. After he came to, Michael had great difficulty with movements and now, approximately ten years later, continues to be impaired in his motor abilities. This goes beyond walking and writing to slowness of speech, as the fine movements involved are still difficult for him to control. One great challenge for Michael, from the beginning of his post-accident consciousness to today, is the fact that his mind is still very active but he has difficulty communicating his thoughts or finding people who appreciate them on an equal level as their own.

Like anyone would, Michael has a hard time getting used to his new body and life. He mentioned that he used to have temper tantrums out of frustration and some days, just nothing went right. His wake-up call came from his father who took the “tough love” approach by telling him to quit his whining.  This initiated an attitude shift that has changed his perspective. From this view, Michael’s message is that oppression is a frame of mind.

This contrasts what we have been learning in Beyond Borders class as our eyes have opened to many injustices and the harsh realities of our world. One of the key concepts is that people who are different from the upper class of a culture are at a disadvantage and face an unfair mountain of oppression to climb before receiving what is just. Micheal certainly had a mountain to climb from my perspective but he is managing see a path and appreciate it one step at a time.

This is why I think crisis is subjective: if you can change your attitude and your attitude can change your perception of a situation, a crisis may seem more like a road bump or even a positive change in direction. As wrenching as the accompanied emotions can be, they are better than numbness.  Either way there's hope, since even numbness can be thawed by some warmth or, as in Michael's case, chipped away by a sharp wake-up call.

The take-home message is to breathe, connect and pan out for a better view.

A Functional Blog

Myers and Brigs had the right idea. 

Last term, our Beyond Borders class completed the Myers Briggs Type Indicator, a classification tool used for bettering our understanding of ourselves. After completing many questions and word association pairs (which seem redundant to the untrained eye), we were classified into different types based on where we get our energy, how we take in information, and how we make decisions. It was considered useful because it gives insight into our strengths and can prepare us for things we will find challenging. In addition to helping us understand the patterns to who we usually, this tool helps us understand what we will be like under stress. The Myers Briggs results provides you with a code indicating your usual patterns, and ones indicating the patterns you will most likely exhibit while uncomfortable and under extreme stress. Without exposing you to my inner workings too much, I'll just say that I am usually a people person who values understanding and creativity. Lately, though, I have been in "get-'r done" mode, completing what is necessary and moving on; looking at things objectively; and turning inward. There's nothing wrong with that - it helps me get done what I need to do. However, it is this change that lets me know maybe I am pretty stressed.

So, to embrace this functional self of mine, I invite you to read my very functional blog about some of the outstanding questions I have been asked and that I have been asking myself.

Why are you doing this?

Simply put, I feel (yay - I'm my old self again!) that gain overcomes cost and potential benefits outweigh risk.

This is what I have gained subjectively: friendships of fellow Beyond Borders students, deepened connection with people of similar experiences/interests, understanding and gratitude for support, exposure to different cultures and global issues, ignition for conversations about global issues, deepened self awareness, satisfaction of accepting the challenge, respect for doing something difficult, deepened understanding of community, fun events, smiles, appreciation, inspiration

These are the objective advantages so far: public speaking experience, maybe a reference letter, practice for writing proposals, budgeting, one to two credits

Through continuation of the program, I think potential benefits include: development of the previously mentioned skills and relationships, a chance to bring joy to the oppressed, time to learn about oppression and recreation and how to use those lessons to build happiness (both in the Ukraine and at home).

Objectively: volunteer hours, Ukranian language, two credits.

So far, the losses of this equation are summed up in two valuable words: time and money. Time could have been spent with friends or family. I have stayed active throughout but could have trained more diligently. Also, I could have been involved in my program or more devoted to my other classes and job or even relaxed a little bit more. This summer, I think the most difficult part about being away will be missing out on what's happening at home. I will be missing a summer on the lake with family (including a young niece and nephew that I adore). I'll also be missing my last summer in school with my friends, and the opportunity to continue training and competing with the triathlon club. (Who would have thought I would be upset about not going to school in the summer?) I could have used the time during the term to hold a part time job or the placement portion to get a paying co-op job. With regards to the financial aspect, I could save that money to go towards professional or grad school, pay off OSAP or start a program to benefit this community. I am very grateful for the donations I have received, as they have helped a lot with the funding challenge.

I could also be on the loosing end of the risks I describe in the next question, below.

Sure some of those skills and development could happen without this program, and I don't necessarily need the credits of volunteer experience for my future career. However my justification for my involvement in the Beyond Borders program, in it's barest form, is that for my whole university career and most of my life before, I have wanted to travel to help and learn from people. I previously felt that these opportunities are few and far between and would like to take advantage of this one, which worked well with my education, is reasonably priced, provided support to help me prepare. Beyond Borders is lifestyle-changer, not a momentary escape.

What are the risks?

Health: The Ukraine has elevated risk for tuberculosis, measles, diptheria, hepatitis, rabies, and encephalitis compared to Canada. To avoid these, I received inoculations for all but rabies. Instead of getting a preventative needle for rabies, I intend to stay away from suspicious animals. Water-born illness will be prevalent so I plan on treating my own water.

Environmental: The climate in the Ukraine is much like ours in Southern Ontario. Thus, I will take the usual precautions. I will be living in an urban area rampid with pollution and much more cigarette smoke than is acceptable in Canada. To deal with this, I will escape to rural areas and open spaces whenever possible and will be aware of a reoccurrence of my childhood asthma. The Ukraine is famous for it's Chernobyl nuclear reactor disaster so radiation is probably still higher than that in Canada. However, travel websites say the radiation levels are considered safe. I will try even harder to avoid carcinogens as an attempt to negate this risk.

Political: As with many cities, there is always the risk of terrorism. However, Lviv is not the largest Ukrainian city and has enough problems of its own so I don't think terrorism will be likely from other countries. (Knock on wood.) Political unrest is a more applicable risk as there are reports of radically motivated violence. This is mostly in Kiev but is apparent across the country. To keep myself safe in these situations, I plan on: paying close attention to personal security, monitoring the media, avoiding demonstrations, and registering my travel contact details with the Canadian government and my loved ones.

Personal: There as a risk of car accident and crime to me personally due to aggressive drivers, poorly maintained roads, poor lighting, and desperate conditions. Also, there is a risk of injury and illness. I will try not to take unnecessary risks and will try to take the recommended precautions. If I do fall ill or become injured, I will seek the required medical attention and ask my Ukrainian language instructor to translate if necessary. I have travel insurance and will notify people of my emergency plan.

What will you be doing?

At my post in the Ukraine, I will be supporting an orphanage for women and girls with various disabilities. The organization is called Internat, and it is located in Ternopil, Ukraine. I was chosen for this placement because of my joyful spirit, my coping/problem-solving abilities, and my enthusiasm for sharing these traits and skills. According to the program coordinator, I am right for this placement because I have heart – and I have it in spades. In the Ukraine, I will undoubtedly be exposed to much hardship as I witness the corruption, exclusion, and neglect faced by the people of Internat. I, along with another student Brieanne, will surely encounter some of the aforementioned challenges as we attempt to learn the language and adjust in order to make Ternopil our home for the three months. Although Brieanne and I will be living in different homes, I am glad to have someone familiar along for the journey and I am looking forward to being a resource to her as we grow and learn together. Mostly, though, I am looking forward to using my enthusiasm and creativity to improve the quality of life for the people at Internat. In the very least, I hope to bring a smile to their faces and a sparkle to their eyes.

What will the living arrangements be like?

I will be living with a family who either have no children or who have a son a few years older than me. I am looking forward to experiencing the Ukraine as they do, and I am grateful for the support that they will provide. They have had billets like myself before so they have an idea of what I will be going through. I picture living in an apartment, and eating good Ukranian comfort food with them at dinner. I am not 100% how healthy the water is so I will buy water purification drops. Since the family has has students before I think they will be able to tell me if it is safe for me to drink their water. I am sure there will be a lot of alcohol on hand. If I drink, I usually limit myself to one or two during the night, plus I want to keep up my training habits and health lifestyle so I don't anticipate having a problem with alcohol consumption (besides maybe pressure and culture to drink more).

Apparently I will be able to walk from my house to the University where I will learn Ukraine and to my placement at Internat. Brieanne and I will be going to school with some student from Alberta so I am looking forward to meeting them. Also, I was told that one of the university professors usually plans weekend trips for the students so I will be sure to be traveling in the area.

How can I stay active?

The university I will be near may have a gym. If I do not have access to a gym, I will at least be able to run. There's a lake nearby so I might be able to go swimming (provided the water is clean). I would like to find a bike and a buddy to exercise with. I will also have time to be active playing with the children at Internat.

How will I access money?

According to Dr. Tataryn, I shouldn't have any trouble using my debit or credit card so I will access money that way. My credit card has a limit on it and I have recorded the number I need to call to cancel it if it is lost or stolen.

How will I keep important documents safe?

I'll make photocopies and carry the photocopies while also keeping copies at home and electronic versions. I'll keep the actual documents in a safe place, such as a safe.

How will the language barrier be addressed?

The family I will be living with will know some English and the professor I am taking classes with can also speak English. If I am in dire need of translation, I will email Dr. Tataryn.

BEfor eI leave, I would like to learn the Ukranian alphabet. While I am there, I will be taking a course to help me with the language.

How will I be able to communicate with home?

I was told that I will be able to access internet cafes so I can communicate via email and possibly skype. I will also be buying a cell phone in the Ukraine and will be mailing postcards. I will dedicate at least an evening per week to speak with my family because I know they'll be worrying about me. Also, I'll be sure to tell them the good things in addition to venting because I know how important it is that they know how much I enjoy myself despite the adversity I face. I plan on keeping a blog too. All of these communication avenues seem daunting to me right now, but I need to remember how important it is to people that they still feel a part of my life and know I am safe. I too would like to stay in the loop of what is going on at home.

Answering these questions has put me more at ease about this journey and I hope it has helped my readers to feel more comfortable too. I know first hand how difficult it is to research the Ukraine and to sit and wait for information when you are being hounded by questions. Hopefully future students going to the Ukraine will find some comfort in what I have shared. I'm in good hands and I think you will be too.

Routine meets Spontaneity: A Souper Day

Today, I finished work five minutes early and left work two hours late. This is why I have a love-hate relationship with spontaneity.

My day started off pretty brutal but routine nonetheless. I’ve been battling a cold and debated about going to my placement at the working centre because I didn’t want to spread my germs, because I was exhausted,  and because I was really dreading breaking up my work day get again. However, I figured I was over the contagious stage and could physically do it so off I went. I am so glad I did! Being there is like having a trip home. Sure, there are different people, but I get a break from the hustle and bustle and the yearn for productivity. The working centre is a place where you enjoy each other’s unique character, where you value the experiences of others however vastly different from your own, and where people value you for who you are – not what you do. I picked my placement so I might learn to cook but am learning so much more while I am there. Every day at the working centre guarantees a life lesson. Today’s lesson is one on routine (and mushroom soup).

I usually claim to get bored with routine and aim to mix things up a bit but today was one of those days where I saw how routine can serve and build community. The lesson began even before I got on the bus to get to my placement and continued throughout the day until 6:25pm, when spontaneity struck. Let me explain:

This morning, after waking up with hardly a voice at all, I decided to stock up on Halls at a little shop where I work. I didn’t immediately have the correct change but the lady who works at the shop just asked how much I had and I’m pretty sure  was going to just give me the cough drops for whatever was in my pocket. That may be because she heard the squeak in my voice or it may be because I buy milk from her almost daily she had begun to care about me. In any case, I found enough cash but did appreciate the offer. It’s nice know that she recognizes my face and appreciates my business, even if we don’t know each other by name.

A similar but opposite situation came up at the working centre. As I mentioned above, I enjoy working in the kitchen with an eclectic groups of characters.  We’ve gotten to know each other a bit partly through conversation but mostly through familiarity. Routine is important because if you show up at the same time and place to do the same thing week after week, you recognize the faces. This is comforting to me and it helps to build trust, too. Consistency is key, as I have learned both hard and easy ways. In the kitchen, I learned this the easy way by seeing the smiling faces on people as I enter the door. Worries are wasted and replaced by the task at hand. I learned the hard way by ordering food at a local shop. At this shop, I watched a usual patron order a plate of veggies and bun. She was granted with a nice warm, big, fluffy bun that would make anyone’s mouth water. I thought it looked really good so I ordered the same thing. However, I was given a portion about 2/3 the size of hers and not nearly as appetizing. (I know the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence, but this difference kept me hungry for the afternoon.)  I’ll admit, I was a bit bitter about the difference in treatment, but it made me think about why that would have happened. I think it’s because this usual patron has been giving their business and company day after day, consistently building relationship with the server. I, on the other hand, stopped by because I was hungry, wanted to build relationship and wanted to contribute to the community. Although I had good intentions and reasons for eating where I did, the server didn’t know that. To them, I was a hungry consumer looking to get what I could. It takes consistency, routine, and patience to gain the trust of others enough for them to give of themselves. I am not yet getting the big buns but that’s okay – it’ll probably do me some good to be a little bit hungry.

As important as consistency and routine are in finding community, so is spontaneity. Today, as I was leaving work those precious five minutes early, I said hello to a girl in y program. We started with small talk about our weekends and ended our conversations two hours and a few life stories later. We talked about everything from alcoholism to religion to politics and new ideas. Now, she’s more than a girl in my program – I’d say I made a friend tonight. Even though that chat totally through off my night and put me even farther behind in all those responsibilities, I really appreciated it because I got to know someone, shared a bit about myself, and was inspired to reflect. As I was writing this blog (at work but off the clock because I was afraid I would be too tired to write when I got home), my friend Katie stopped by. She can read my mind through a few words in a text and decided it was time for a visit, so that’s what we did. I really like my job but I have never had so much fun at work – we caught up (even though we already pretty much guessed what was going on with each other) and laughed hysterically. 

This is why spontaneity is rules. There’s no way I could have scheduled a night like this but I’m very glad it happened. It is the times like these that put life in life.

If you’re feeling drab, I challenge you to take an alternate route to school or work one day, or to strike up a good conversation with someone. Do you see all those new people around? Do you hear their perspectives? They too are filled with amazing experiences, riveting stories and tender hearts. There truly is a whole lot more to this world and the people in it.

In short, this blog is about soup, (but not a melting pot). I see routine as a base for community; it is important to see familiar people and get to know them. Spontaneity adds some spice to the mix.