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Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Sunday, June 29, 2008
La música buena
For you music lovers out there, I recommend finetune.com.
I have been a member of this site for a long time and have finally incorporated it into my blog (see right hand side of page). Ultimately, this site is a great tool for sharing and finding "new" music. Also, it has amazing utility for travelers and people on the go. The best part is that it is all FREE.
If you set up an account and would like to share music, my screenname is kimberlydj (my finetune). I hope this is helpful for some of you!
I have been a member of this site for a long time and have finally incorporated it into my blog (see right hand side of page). Ultimately, this site is a great tool for sharing and finding "new" music. Also, it has amazing utility for travelers and people on the go. The best part is that it is all FREE.
If you set up an account and would like to share music, my screenname is kimberlydj (my finetune). I hope this is helpful for some of you!
Love
I Corinthians 13: 4-7
Romans 13: 8
I Corinthians 13: 4-7
Romans 13: 8
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
As promised, a Ukraine post.
Well, I haven't been able to think of a good enough excuse to warrant further procrastination, so -- without further hesitation. . .
For four weeks between May and June I was in Ukraine. Earlier this spring I applied for the Alma College Ukraine Service-Vision Project Scholarship (USVP), which fully funds a month-long trip for two Alma students. Though it is not necessary for receipt of award, both myself and Lauren (the other student who was selected) are members of the Alma College Forgotten Children of Eastern Europe (FCEE). This student-run organization sponsors the Veselka Children's Home north of Kiev and has been a primary focus of the USVP trip. That is to say, during the USVP trip each year, the selected students serve as "ambassadors" (for lack of a more precise term) for FCEE. This year, Lauren and I were able to visit the Veselka Home, The Way Home in Odessa, the Crimean Peninsula, and various organizations in Kiev. We met wonderful people and generated a lot of great ideas for the direction of FCEE (at least, we think they're great, of course we would!).
The trip began at Veselka. We spent nine days there playing with the children and learning more about how we can help at Alma throughout this coming school year. Neither Lauren nor I speak Ukrainian, but (surprisingly) many of the children spoke Spanish! It was a good thing too because we really got to know them well.
After the orphanage, we passed some time in Kiev, exploring the city. I think we saw every major tourist site in the city with expert guidance from Rick DeLong (our translator and guide in Kiev). The weather was beautiful and the sites were fun (my favorite during this first trip in Kiev was the Kiev Philharmonic, see below).
We then took a train to Odessa, a major port-city on the Black Sea. There we worked with The Way Home, a private organization that helps street children return safely to their homes and serves as a transitional home for them. In our brief time there we participated in social patrols (going out into the streets, feeding the homeless children, and encouraging them to come into the Way Home Center) and helped the director, Dr. Robert Gamble (This Child Here) write his annual donor report. Through our many interactions with Dr. Gamble we identified some potential avenues for FCEE sponsorship of The Way Home.
While in Odessa, Lauren and I also took advantage of some non-volunteer opportunities. The first was that we learned some basic Russian phrases and how to read the Cyrillic alphabet from our host family (a young girl learning English and her grandmother, a former language teacher). The second was a concert to see the Russian-speaking pop-rock group Bymbokc (Boombox, they sound like Jason Mraz). We were able to get free tickets from our host-brother who sings in a talented local band. The final thing was going to the "beach." Our last day in Odessa we packed a small picnic and enjoyed beautiful weather and a nice view of the Black Sea.
Following our week in Odessa, we took the train to the Crimean Peninsula for a two day trip between Bakhchisaray and Balaklava. There we learned a bit about Crimean-Tartar culture (basically the only ethnic issue in Ukraine). We visited the Kahn's palace and hiked up to the old Tartar fortress in Bakhchisaray. In Balaklava, despite a bit of rain, we hiked to a ruined tower above the bay. There was something fantastic about the sights and food in Crimea. I wish we could have stayed longer than a couple days.
During our return trip in Kiev, we visited a lot of individuals and organizations which work in Ukraine on current issues such as tourism, domestic violence, business management, and legal services. We met a lot of interesting people. While emphasis of this time in Kiev was learning, we were able to sneak in a little bit of tourist fun, namely we saw a phenomenal guitarist, Enver Izmailov.
This video is from the concert we attended. This song, in particular, was one of my favourites.
Overall, the trip was wonderful and I would love to return to Ukraine in my future. If you want to see more pictures, the following are links to my Ukraine Facebook albums: Ukraine, More Ukraine
Also, all photos in this blog post are courtesy of Rick Delong, tryukraine.com
I hope you are all well and happy. Peace and Love.
For four weeks between May and June I was in Ukraine. Earlier this spring I applied for the Alma College Ukraine Service-Vision Project Scholarship (USVP), which fully funds a month-long trip for two Alma students. Though it is not necessary for receipt of award, both myself and Lauren (the other student who was selected) are members of the Alma College Forgotten Children of Eastern Europe (FCEE). This student-run organization sponsors the Veselka Children's Home north of Kiev and has been a primary focus of the USVP trip. That is to say, during the USVP trip each year, the selected students serve as "ambassadors" (for lack of a more precise term) for FCEE. This year, Lauren and I were able to visit the Veselka Home, The Way Home in Odessa, the Crimean Peninsula, and various organizations in Kiev. We met wonderful people and generated a lot of great ideas for the direction of FCEE (at least, we think they're great, of course we would!).
The trip began at Veselka. We spent nine days there playing with the children and learning more about how we can help at Alma throughout this coming school year. Neither Lauren nor I speak Ukrainian, but (surprisingly) many of the children spoke Spanish! It was a good thing too because we really got to know them well.
After the orphanage, we passed some time in Kiev, exploring the city. I think we saw every major tourist site in the city with expert guidance from Rick DeLong (our translator and guide in Kiev). The weather was beautiful and the sites were fun (my favorite during this first trip in Kiev was the Kiev Philharmonic, see below).
We then took a train to Odessa, a major port-city on the Black Sea. There we worked with The Way Home, a private organization that helps street children return safely to their homes and serves as a transitional home for them. In our brief time there we participated in social patrols (going out into the streets, feeding the homeless children, and encouraging them to come into the Way Home Center) and helped the director, Dr. Robert Gamble (This Child Here) write his annual donor report. Through our many interactions with Dr. Gamble we identified some potential avenues for FCEE sponsorship of The Way Home.
While in Odessa, Lauren and I also took advantage of some non-volunteer opportunities. The first was that we learned some basic Russian phrases and how to read the Cyrillic alphabet from our host family (a young girl learning English and her grandmother, a former language teacher). The second was a concert to see the Russian-speaking pop-rock group Bymbokc (Boombox, they sound like Jason Mraz). We were able to get free tickets from our host-brother who sings in a talented local band. The final thing was going to the "beach." Our last day in Odessa we packed a small picnic and enjoyed beautiful weather and a nice view of the Black Sea.
Following our week in Odessa, we took the train to the Crimean Peninsula for a two day trip between Bakhchisaray and Balaklava. There we learned a bit about Crimean-Tartar culture (basically the only ethnic issue in Ukraine). We visited the Kahn's palace and hiked up to the old Tartar fortress in Bakhchisaray. In Balaklava, despite a bit of rain, we hiked to a ruined tower above the bay. There was something fantastic about the sights and food in Crimea. I wish we could have stayed longer than a couple days.
During our return trip in Kiev, we visited a lot of individuals and organizations which work in Ukraine on current issues such as tourism, domestic violence, business management, and legal services. We met a lot of interesting people. While emphasis of this time in Kiev was learning, we were able to sneak in a little bit of tourist fun, namely we saw a phenomenal guitarist, Enver Izmailov.
This video is from the concert we attended. This song, in particular, was one of my favourites.
Overall, the trip was wonderful and I would love to return to Ukraine in my future. If you want to see more pictures, the following are links to my Ukraine Facebook albums: Ukraine, More Ukraine
Also, all photos in this blog post are courtesy of Rick Delong, tryukraine.com
I hope you are all well and happy. Peace and Love.
Friday, May 30, 2008
Ukraine.
Dear friends,
I am in the Ukraine. It is spectacular. I wish you were all here with me.
I promise to post a lot more about my trip after I get home and load up the photographs.
Loving and missing you all,
Kim
I am in the Ukraine. It is spectacular. I wish you were all here with me.
I promise to post a lot more about my trip after I get home and load up the photographs.
Loving and missing you all,
Kim
" Only Love is Real"
I Corinthians 13: 4-7
Romans 13: 8
I Corinthians 13: 4-7
Romans 13: 8
Monday, April 28, 2008
O, Grenvil! How I come to loathe thee. . .
Dear Beautiful People:
It is official; the warm, nostalgic feeling of homecoming has faded into the sickening dose of pity and boredom that haunts those capable of recognizing the gravity of reality in a small, post-manufacturing economy. Apparently, Greenville is increasingly ailed by hopelessness, teen pregnancy and drug use. Surely, the former "ailments" are little more than symptoms of a more substantial and infectious plight.
I am not wholly convinced by the common hypotheses of which disease plagues my hometown. Some are quick to assume that it has been poor state economic policy that has fostered the stagnation -- I daresay, the retrograde movement -- of this community. To this, I argue that Michigan's economic policies do not necessarily explain cases across broad spans of time; that is, it is highly unlikely that the successions of leadership in this state have coercively been able to bring down the might of the automotive and other manufacturing industries, especially across the decades since this disease began its manifestation. Nor does this explanation provide insight as to why, in locations nationwide, similar phenomenon occurs.
Others posit that the disease is much broader -- an economic woe echoing throughout the United States and the world. For many internationally, the Western approach to capitalism, free market globalization, is the culprit for our ills. Free trade rhetoric spouted by the US, World Trade Organization, and other global bodies claims that liberalized economic policies spur development (2002 Monterrey Consensus). In some instances, this is true. After signing the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in 1994, Mexico's inflows of foreign direct investment increased significantly and overall poverty decreased (World Development Reports 1996-2007, World Bank). But, for significant groups within the population, the benefits of liberalized and free trade are out of reach. In Greenville, there is a large portion of the population which, correctly or incorrectly, maintains that NAFTA is what has allowed our manufacturing jobs to head south and east. Assuming, of course, that this draining of "quality, high-paying jobs" is what drives teenagers in Greevilles across the nation to cook meth and fornicate. (The logic has been grossly oversimplied, but I believe it essentially expresses the general thought processes explaining the downturn of society in a place like Greenville).
Ultimately, however, both these explanations are wrong. The horrible increase in high school drop outs, teen pregnancy, drug use, etc. has little if anything to do with economic wounds. Our own permission of cultural and social degradation is the sickness eating at this community. The said degradation deriving, of course, from an epidemic lack of responsibility for ourselves and for others. Blaming economics is a simple explanation of the disgusting debasement of American community. The correlation is obvious, likely perfect and positive. We, in our seemingly-infinite ability to pass blame, see correlation and read causation. Similarly, for those that do recognize this plague as social, I am sickened by the continued inaction to affect change. Fingers are pointed at everyone, but ourselves. Well, Greenville, look in the mirror. It is not Governor Granholm, nor President Bush, nor global capitalists that have brought this to your door. It is your apathy and lack of caring for the progress of your fellow citizens. Turning your head as a child is abused, ignoring your neighbor's depression, not saying 'hello' to a new face -- to an old face! -- these are things that reduce the quality of life in this community, country, and world. We are responsible for the sickness around us and, consequently, only we can reconstruct what has disintegrated. How? By caring enough.
It is official; the warm, nostalgic feeling of homecoming has faded into the sickening dose of pity and boredom that haunts those capable of recognizing the gravity of reality in a small, post-manufacturing economy. Apparently, Greenville is increasingly ailed by hopelessness, teen pregnancy and drug use. Surely, the former "ailments" are little more than symptoms of a more substantial and infectious plight.
I am not wholly convinced by the common hypotheses of which disease plagues my hometown. Some are quick to assume that it has been poor state economic policy that has fostered the stagnation -- I daresay, the retrograde movement -- of this community. To this, I argue that Michigan's economic policies do not necessarily explain cases across broad spans of time; that is, it is highly unlikely that the successions of leadership in this state have coercively been able to bring down the might of the automotive and other manufacturing industries, especially across the decades since this disease began its manifestation. Nor does this explanation provide insight as to why, in locations nationwide, similar phenomenon occurs.
Others posit that the disease is much broader -- an economic woe echoing throughout the United States and the world. For many internationally, the Western approach to capitalism, free market globalization, is the culprit for our ills. Free trade rhetoric spouted by the US, World Trade Organization, and other global bodies claims that liberalized economic policies spur development (2002 Monterrey Consensus). In some instances, this is true. After signing the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in 1994, Mexico's inflows of foreign direct investment increased significantly and overall poverty decreased (World Development Reports 1996-2007, World Bank). But, for significant groups within the population, the benefits of liberalized and free trade are out of reach. In Greenville, there is a large portion of the population which, correctly or incorrectly, maintains that NAFTA is what has allowed our manufacturing jobs to head south and east. Assuming, of course, that this draining of "quality, high-paying jobs" is what drives teenagers in Greevilles across the nation to cook meth and fornicate. (The logic has been grossly oversimplied, but I believe it essentially expresses the general thought processes explaining the downturn of society in a place like Greenville).
Ultimately, however, both these explanations are wrong. The horrible increase in high school drop outs, teen pregnancy, drug use, etc. has little if anything to do with economic wounds. Our own permission of cultural and social degradation is the sickness eating at this community. The said degradation deriving, of course, from an epidemic lack of responsibility for ourselves and for others. Blaming economics is a simple explanation of the disgusting debasement of American community. The correlation is obvious, likely perfect and positive. We, in our seemingly-infinite ability to pass blame, see correlation and read causation. Similarly, for those that do recognize this plague as social, I am sickened by the continued inaction to affect change. Fingers are pointed at everyone, but ourselves. Well, Greenville, look in the mirror. It is not Governor Granholm, nor President Bush, nor global capitalists that have brought this to your door. It is your apathy and lack of caring for the progress of your fellow citizens. Turning your head as a child is abused, ignoring your neighbor's depression, not saying 'hello' to a new face -- to an old face! -- these are things that reduce the quality of life in this community, country, and world. We are responsible for the sickness around us and, consequently, only we can reconstruct what has disintegrated. How? By caring enough.
Love
I Corinthians 13: 4-7
Romans 13: 8
I Corinthians 13: 4-7
Romans 13: 8
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
Belief-o-matic
The Belief-o-matic is a fun, online quiz that supposedly helps you to determine with what spiritual stucture or religion your beliefs most closely align. I took this quiz in highschool and was dominantly a Liberal Quaker. The following are my results now (I think they are very accurate):
1. New Age (100%)
2. Unitarian Universalism (98%)
3. Neo-Pagan (97%)
4. New Thought (96%)
5. Liberal Quakers (92%)
6. Scientology (89%)
7. Mahayana Buddhism (86%)
8. Taoism (84%)
9. Christian Science (Church of Christ, Scientist) (73%)
10. Mainline to Liberal Christian Protestants (72%)
11. Hinduism (71%)
12. Theravada Buddhism (71%)
13. Secular Humanism (67%)
14. Orthodox Quaker (65%)
15. Jainism (62%)
16. Reform Judaism (56%)
17.Nontheist (49%)
18. Sikhism (45%)
19. Bahá'í Faith (44%)
20. Seventh Day Adventist (34%)
21. Orthodox Judaism (33%)
22. Mainline to Conservative Christian/Protestant (25%)
23. Islam (21%)
24. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (Mormons) (21%)
25. Jehovah's Witness (15%)
26. Eastern Orthodox (8%)
27. Roman Catholic (8%)
I think it would be fun if some more of my friends took it and compared. So, let me know what you guys end up with!
1. New Age (100%)
2. Unitarian Universalism (98%)
3. Neo-Pagan (97%)
4. New Thought (96%)
5. Liberal Quakers (92%)
6. Scientology (89%)
7. Mahayana Buddhism (86%)
8. Taoism (84%)
9. Christian Science (Church of Christ, Scientist) (73%)
10. Mainline to Liberal Christian Protestants (72%)
11. Hinduism (71%)
12. Theravada Buddhism (71%)
13. Secular Humanism (67%)
14. Orthodox Quaker (65%)
15. Jainism (62%)
16. Reform Judaism (56%)
17.Nontheist (49%)
18. Sikhism (45%)
19. Bahá'í Faith (44%)
20. Seventh Day Adventist (34%)
21. Orthodox Judaism (33%)
22. Mainline to Conservative Christian/Protestant (25%)
23. Islam (21%)
24. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (Mormons) (21%)
25. Jehovah's Witness (15%)
26. Eastern Orthodox (8%)
27. Roman Catholic (8%)
I think it would be fun if some more of my friends took it and compared. So, let me know what you guys end up with!
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
Brief Life update. . .
It appears, evidenced by history, that any renewed resolve I have for updating this blog regularly only survives a month or so before I forget my resolution. I do not feel particularly guilty for not writing my blog consistently; not writing in my journal, however, worries me. Both this blog and my journal have gone unattended for weeks, a fact that I regret. Now, having finished with the Truman Scholarship process and having completed another season of Model United Nations, I am collecting my life and returning to the little writing that I do -- beginning with this blog.
I am glad to report that life is wonderful. Allbeit busy, the last three months have been remarkably productive. The challenge of applying for the Truman, preparing as a Finalist, and interviewing for the Scholarship was one of the most difficult processes of my life. I was forced for the first time to crystalize my passion and ideas into a plan for the future. More than this, I was also pushed to defend why and how I could make my plan a reality. Though I did not receive the scholarhip, I gained so much from the experience that it made all the struggle worthwhile. However, I couldn't be too upset about not winning, particularly because the week previous our Model United Nations team made history. For the first time in MUN history, one school has won three Outstanding Delegation and three Oustanding Position Paper Awards. Alma College represented the delegations of Burkina Faso, Costa Rica, and Palau. Anyway, the adrenaline was so high after our success at the National Conference in New York, it was probably impossible for me to get sore over the Truman.
Overall life is sensational. I have great friends and a million and one things to be thankful for.
Ciao - in hopes that I will update again soon with something more universally substantive rather than a brief personal account.
Peace and Love.
I am glad to report that life is wonderful. Allbeit busy, the last three months have been remarkably productive. The challenge of applying for the Truman, preparing as a Finalist, and interviewing for the Scholarship was one of the most difficult processes of my life. I was forced for the first time to crystalize my passion and ideas into a plan for the future. More than this, I was also pushed to defend why and how I could make my plan a reality. Though I did not receive the scholarhip, I gained so much from the experience that it made all the struggle worthwhile. However, I couldn't be too upset about not winning, particularly because the week previous our Model United Nations team made history. For the first time in MUN history, one school has won three Outstanding Delegation and three Oustanding Position Paper Awards. Alma College represented the delegations of Burkina Faso, Costa Rica, and Palau. Anyway, the adrenaline was so high after our success at the National Conference in New York, it was probably impossible for me to get sore over the Truman.
Overall life is sensational. I have great friends and a million and one things to be thankful for.
Ciao - in hopes that I will update again soon with something more universally substantive rather than a brief personal account.
Peace and Love.
Friday, February 08, 2008
Wow.
When life is great, it truly is fantastic. Time is flying by so quickly that I barely have time to catch my breath, but I have never felt so alive.
In brief, this was my January:
- Applying for Truman Scholarship.
- Acceptance as alternate intern for the United States Embassy in Lima, Peru.
- Model United Nations - Lead Mentor and Position Paper committee (both new roles for me).
- Found a new campus organization: Alma College Students For Peace and Nonviolence.
While the other activities have been great, I am particularly excited about the Peace and Nonviolence group. We have some great activities coming up on campus. The first is a showing of the film: Gandhi. Hopefully, there is a great showing and lots of people come. Our second event is the Alma College Hug Day. The idea is that people wear shirts (we'll be selling specially-made ones) and every time they hug someone they get a signature on the shirt. The object is, of course, to cover your shirt in signatures. Sort of like a competition - medals of honor for hugs. I should credit Buddy and Ray with the Hug Day idea. I think it is a spectacular idea for helping to spread a culture of peace across the campus.
Oddly enough, this group has brought me into contact with some faces from my past. An acquaintance from Greenville who recently transferred to Alma, Steve W., a man I graduated high school with, has been a great help and has been very enthusiastic about the organization. Similarly, a girl that did theatre with me -- Lindsey S.-- has been very willing and helpful. Pat T. has also expressed desire to advocate for the organization. It is exhilarating to have such support from home!
Anyway, I am very excited about the potential of this organization. If we can keep enough key people and recruit new members and/or volunteers for events while effectively progressing toward a culture of peace here at Alma, I am sure Alma College Students for Peace and Nonviolence will stick around for the long-run.
Saturday, January 05, 2008
Happiness is:
The year 2007 was a transformative year for me. I spent many months feeling empty and alone. Beginning in July, while I was in Peru, I experienced a substantive change in the way I think, interact and live. Due to the living I have done since then --classes in the UK, moving in with Andrew, working 9-5, living with a lover, leaving a lover, coming home, praying -- I have soberly discovered happiness. I have thought about my life and why, almost suddenly, I love being alive. This is what I have come up with:
Now, for the third time since he had returned from the hospital that day, he opened the woman's book and read the brief inscription on the flyleaf. Written in ink, in German, in a small, hopelessly sincere handwriting were the words "Dear God, Life is hell.". . .Then, with far more zeal than he had done anything in weeks, he picked up a pencil stub and wrote down under the inscription, in English, "Fathers and Teachers, I ponder 'What is hell?' I maintain that it is the suffering of being unable to love.
-- J.D. Salinger, For Esme-With Love and Squalor
-- J.D. Salinger, For Esme-With Love and Squalor
Learn to Love.
This above all else is necessary.
This above all else is necessary.
Next, pursue a childlike spirit. Run in the rain, have snowball fights, do a cannonball and make snow angels. Free yourself.
Forgive.
One forgives to the degree that one loves.
-- Francois Duc de la Rochefoucauld
Break the rules. Forgive quickly. Kiss slowly. Love truely. Laugh uncontrollably.
----------------
Now playing: Brandon Heath - I'm Not Who I Was
via FoxyTunes
-- Francois Duc de la Rochefoucauld
"Caring about others, running the risk of feeling, and leaving an impact on people, brings happiness."
-- Harold Kushner
Life is short.-- Harold Kushner
Maintain groundless hope. Idealize. Imagine.
Love yourself. Inspire others to love themselves, too.
Break the rules. Forgive quickly. Kiss slowly. Love truely. Laugh uncontrollably.
----------------
Now playing: Brandon Heath - I'm Not Who I Was
via FoxyTunes
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Christmas Insight.
Hello everyone!
To begin, I want to wish you all a Merry, merry Christmas and for those who do not celebrate Christmas - happy, glorious holidays to you!
For me, today is a fantastic day. I am not talking about the presents or the money. It is fantastic because today is full of love and happiness. Last night, I spent the evening enjoying time with my immediate family. I also got a special Christmas visit from my friend Brent, who just got home from his internship in Ypsilanti. AND, I was able to call my family in Peru and talk to them. To make the holiday more joyous, I got to see the rest of my family this morning. The whole gang came over for the traditional Christmas brunch and gift-swap. I have a number of little cousins that came over - it was great. On Christmas, children are a joy to watch; the excitement they all have when unwrapping presents is hilarious. Their joy and innocence reminds me how grateful I am for the wonderful souls with whom I share this life. It is a true blessing.
And, while Christmas would be nothing without the love of family and friends, there is a greater, personal significance to this day -- the birth of one the best examples of human existence -- Jesus Christ. Regardless, of spiritual affiliation, I hope that every person can reflect today and find inspiration in the birth of such a great person. Jesus lived a selfless, sacrificial life in order to serve as an example and guide for humanity. I do not feel that I would do this day justice if I did not find time to thank God for the gift of such an enlightened man. Jesus serves as an inspiration for me as I move through life. Today, I look inside myself and hope that I can live today and each day as a better human being.
And, as the New Year comes, there is little better time to resolve to improve yourself. Whether you resolve to say hello to a new person everyday or resolve to compliment others more often, I hope that today gives you a moment to reflect and aspire to improve the world - if only a little.
Bob Marley said:
Today, tomorrow, within the next week, please take the time to answer this question for yourself.
Peace and Love.
To begin, I want to wish you all a Merry, merry Christmas and for those who do not celebrate Christmas - happy, glorious holidays to you!
For me, today is a fantastic day. I am not talking about the presents or the money. It is fantastic because today is full of love and happiness. Last night, I spent the evening enjoying time with my immediate family. I also got a special Christmas visit from my friend Brent, who just got home from his internship in Ypsilanti. AND, I was able to call my family in Peru and talk to them. To make the holiday more joyous, I got to see the rest of my family this morning. The whole gang came over for the traditional Christmas brunch and gift-swap. I have a number of little cousins that came over - it was great. On Christmas, children are a joy to watch; the excitement they all have when unwrapping presents is hilarious. Their joy and innocence reminds me how grateful I am for the wonderful souls with whom I share this life. It is a true blessing.
And, while Christmas would be nothing without the love of family and friends, there is a greater, personal significance to this day -- the birth of one the best examples of human existence -- Jesus Christ. Regardless, of spiritual affiliation, I hope that every person can reflect today and find inspiration in the birth of such a great person. Jesus lived a selfless, sacrificial life in order to serve as an example and guide for humanity. I do not feel that I would do this day justice if I did not find time to thank God for the gift of such an enlightened man. Jesus serves as an inspiration for me as I move through life. Today, I look inside myself and hope that I can live today and each day as a better human being.
And, as the New Year comes, there is little better time to resolve to improve yourself. Whether you resolve to say hello to a new person everyday or resolve to compliment others more often, I hope that today gives you a moment to reflect and aspire to improve the world - if only a little.
Bob Marley said:
“Open your eyes, look within. Are you satisfied with the life you're living?”
Today, tomorrow, within the next week, please take the time to answer this question for yourself.
Peace and Love.
Love
Romans 13:8
I Corinthians 13:4-7
Romans 13:8
I Corinthians 13:4-7
Sunday, December 02, 2007
Inspiration.
I hope all of you great and wonderful people are having a great and wonderful weekend. On Thursday, I went to a forum related to my internship and some research that I am doing on Promise Zones. The Superintendent of Instruction in Michigan shared the following video with us during his speech. It is, in my opinion, compelling enough that I was teary-eyed. I hope only that it inspires you all in the way that it continues to inspire me.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
General update.
With one and a half weeks left in my internship, my fall is winding down. Given the nature of events this fall: moving in with my boyfriend, adjusting to working life, moving out and breaking up with my boyfriend, adjusting to living at home and, now, finishing up my internship, this fall has seemed to be a whirlwind of transitioning for me. It has all gone by so quickly, it's borderline amazing.
And, to cap everything off, I feel like I might be trying to get sick. I started feeling nauseas on Monday morning and, starting about 2 hours ago, it has gotten worse. I know that it is flu season, I only hope that I am not actually getting sick, but that I may have eaten something offensive.
Regardless of my stomach, I am still very happy. This afternoon, my sister and I went shopping for suits. I got two (red and light heather) for just over $100. There was a big sale. I am so glad that I finally got my red suit! For my business wardrobe I have really wanted two things: one red suit and one white suit. One down, one to go. I also have some things coming up this weekend that I am really looking forward to. The first is on Friday. After work I am driving to see my friend, Brent, and we're going to meet up with some others and catch up. The second is on Saturday. I have been really looking forward to talking with my friend Corey, and he finally found some time in his busy schedule for me. So, despite any illness, I have some fun things to look forward to this weekend - I really cannot wait.
In other news, I also got a look at the committees Alma will be on for the National Model UN conference this year. We're prefrencing which committees we want to be on as individuals. I listed three of the four General Assembly Committees (GA Plenary, GA 1st, and GA 2nd). And the fourth preference I made was the African Union. Myself and one other team member, Brittany, generally are assigned to economic committees like GA 2nd and the AU. This year, however, I would like to research some conflict and peace issues. After this summer's trip to the U.K. and learning quite a bit about creating peace after conflict, I have been very interested in it. Also, Stanford Law has, what looks like, an interesting program on international peace negotiation and conflict resolution. Lately, I have been imagining myself as a peace negotiator, though before I settle on this, I need to know if conflict, security, and peace hold my interest (hence me preferencing GA Plen and GA 1st). We'll see, Dr. H said he would have our assignments by the time finals end on Dec. 14. I am very excited to see what I get.
That's it for now. I hope you are all great and wonderful and happy. I love you all!
----------------
Now playing: John Mayer - Split Screen Sadness
via FoxyTunes
And, to cap everything off, I feel like I might be trying to get sick. I started feeling nauseas on Monday morning and, starting about 2 hours ago, it has gotten worse. I know that it is flu season, I only hope that I am not actually getting sick, but that I may have eaten something offensive.
Regardless of my stomach, I am still very happy. This afternoon, my sister and I went shopping for suits. I got two (red and light heather) for just over $100. There was a big sale. I am so glad that I finally got my red suit! For my business wardrobe I have really wanted two things: one red suit and one white suit. One down, one to go. I also have some things coming up this weekend that I am really looking forward to. The first is on Friday. After work I am driving to see my friend, Brent, and we're going to meet up with some others and catch up. The second is on Saturday. I have been really looking forward to talking with my friend Corey, and he finally found some time in his busy schedule for me. So, despite any illness, I have some fun things to look forward to this weekend - I really cannot wait.
In other news, I also got a look at the committees Alma will be on for the National Model UN conference this year. We're prefrencing which committees we want to be on as individuals. I listed three of the four General Assembly Committees (GA Plenary, GA 1st, and GA 2nd). And the fourth preference I made was the African Union. Myself and one other team member, Brittany, generally are assigned to economic committees like GA 2nd and the AU. This year, however, I would like to research some conflict and peace issues. After this summer's trip to the U.K. and learning quite a bit about creating peace after conflict, I have been very interested in it. Also, Stanford Law has, what looks like, an interesting program on international peace negotiation and conflict resolution. Lately, I have been imagining myself as a peace negotiator, though before I settle on this, I need to know if conflict, security, and peace hold my interest (hence me preferencing GA Plen and GA 1st). We'll see, Dr. H said he would have our assignments by the time finals end on Dec. 14. I am very excited to see what I get.
That's it for now. I hope you are all great and wonderful and happy. I love you all!
Love
I Corinthians 13:3-7
Romans 13:8
I Corinthians 13:3-7
Romans 13:8
----------------
Now playing: John Mayer - Split Screen Sadness
via FoxyTunes
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Track 4 on the soundtrack of my life
Landslide
I took my love and I took it down,
I climbed a mountain and I turned around,
And I saw my reflection in the snow covered hills,
Well the landslide brought me down
Oh, mirror in the sky,
What is love?
Can the child within my heart rise above?
Can I sail through the changing ocean tides?
Can I handle the seasons of my life?
Well, I've been afraid of changing
'cause I built my life around you,
But time makes you bolder.
Children get older,
I'm getting older too.
Well... Well, I've been afraid of changing
'cause I built my life around you.
But time makes you bolder,
Children get older,
I'm getting older, too
Well I'm getting older too.
So, take this love and take it down.
And if you climb a mountain and ya turn around.
And if you see my reflection in the snow-covered hills,
Well the landslide brought me down
And if you see my reflection in the snow-covered hills,
Well maybe, Well maybe, Well maybe,
The landslide will bring you down
----------------
Now playing: Dixie Chicks - Landslide
via FoxyTunes
Friday, November 23, 2007
Brief discourse on Life.
Dear World:
Yes, life is grand. Life is good. Life is a miraculous gift: no matter the challenges it provides.
When I wrote previously, I wrote about how I have been sensing a change in my life. I did not plan on being the instigator of this change, but I was. Over the last week, a very significant part of my life was altered. And, for better or worse, I am having to learn how to live in my new life.
There are personal hurdles associated with adjusting to my new life. I have to reestablish my independence and gather the pieces of myself into a viable person. I have to get my bearings.
Despite these challenges, I am excited for the possibilities and the strength I can gain from this change. There is a conversation I need to have with someone that, until now, I was not prepared to have. I am thrilled. I am petrified.
But this, of course, is why this life is so great. There is such an array of emotion, an array of paths, decisions. Life, no matter whose, is a fantastic journey through both its crests and troughs. I am at peace knowing that this is one challenging step, one challenging sacrifice in order to advance my life and live it to the fullest.
Now, in the following I have included the lyrics of some of the music that I listened to while I wrote this blog.
This song really should get its own post. An old friend first told me about this band, and this song reminds me of him every time. Hopefully, he likes this song as much as I do. This song inspires me to repair the hurt I have inflicted in my past.
----------------
Now playing: Sanctus Real - Don't Give Up
via FoxyTunes
Yes, life is grand. Life is good. Life is a miraculous gift: no matter the challenges it provides.
When I wrote previously, I wrote about how I have been sensing a change in my life. I did not plan on being the instigator of this change, but I was. Over the last week, a very significant part of my life was altered. And, for better or worse, I am having to learn how to live in my new life.
There are personal hurdles associated with adjusting to my new life. I have to reestablish my independence and gather the pieces of myself into a viable person. I have to get my bearings.
Despite these challenges, I am excited for the possibilities and the strength I can gain from this change. There is a conversation I need to have with someone that, until now, I was not prepared to have. I am thrilled. I am petrified.
But this, of course, is why this life is so great. There is such an array of emotion, an array of paths, decisions. Life, no matter whose, is a fantastic journey through both its crests and troughs. I am at peace knowing that this is one challenging step, one challenging sacrifice in order to advance my life and live it to the fullest.
Now, in the following I have included the lyrics of some of the music that I listened to while I wrote this blog.
This song really should get its own post. An old friend first told me about this band, and this song reminds me of him every time. Hopefully, he likes this song as much as I do. This song inspires me to repair the hurt I have inflicted in my past.
----------------
Now playing: Sanctus Real - Don't Give Up
via FoxyTunes
I heard you say you would love for a lifetime
Now you complain a lifetime just doesn't feel right for you
Another casualty of casual love
Another soul out of place, a heart that gave up
Why do we break the promises we make?
Are we living for ourselves?
Don't give up on love and throw it all away
Don't give up on love and let it fall away
When did it become so easy to run from your pain
Don't give up on love and throw it all away
I heard you say you can't change a stubborn heart
I can relate 'cause that's how I feel when I talk with you
Why should it take losing everything
to realize it might be time to change?
Don't give up on love and throw it all away
Don't give up on love and let it fall away
When did it become so easy to run from your pain
Don't give up on love and throw it all away
Your restless heart won't win 'cause you take but you don't give
And you'll keep moving on until you learn what love is
Don't give up on love and throw it all away
Don't give up on love and let it fall away
Don't give up on love
Peace and Love to you all.
Love
I Corinthians 13:3-7
Romans 13:8
Now you complain a lifetime just doesn't feel right for you
Another casualty of casual love
Another soul out of place, a heart that gave up
Why do we break the promises we make?
Are we living for ourselves?
Don't give up on love and throw it all away
Don't give up on love and let it fall away
When did it become so easy to run from your pain
Don't give up on love and throw it all away
I heard you say you can't change a stubborn heart
I can relate 'cause that's how I feel when I talk with you
Why should it take losing everything
to realize it might be time to change?
Don't give up on love and throw it all away
Don't give up on love and let it fall away
When did it become so easy to run from your pain
Don't give up on love and throw it all away
Your restless heart won't win 'cause you take but you don't give
And you'll keep moving on until you learn what love is
Don't give up on love and throw it all away
Don't give up on love and let it fall away
Don't give up on love
Peace and Love to you all.
Love
I Corinthians 13:3-7
Romans 13:8
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
In transistion.
There is something brewing. Somewhere inside of myself, I feel a change.
As soon as I began to become comfortable -or certain-with the person I have become, I realize that I have much farther to venture before I am the someone I was made to be.
Old habits are tough to break, but I know that as long as I remain persistent: I will be the person I need to be. I will apologize to those I have wronged; I will embrace those I have ignored; and I will love everyone that I have hated.
----------------
Now playing: Casting Crowns - East to West
via FoxyTunes
As soon as I began to become comfortable -or certain-with the person I have become, I realize that I have much farther to venture before I am the someone I was made to be.
Old habits are tough to break, but I know that as long as I remain persistent: I will be the person I need to be. I will apologize to those I have wronged; I will embrace those I have ignored; and I will love everyone that I have hated.
Love
I Corinthians 13: 3-7
Romans 13: 8
I Corinthians 13: 3-7
Romans 13: 8
----------------
Now playing: Casting Crowns - East to West
via FoxyTunes
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
Conlusions derived of a Board of Education meeting:
Random psychological observation:
People can be negative in their positivity.
(and positive in their negativity.)
(and positive in their negativity.)
Also,
lack of tact, is tacky.
(i.e. there is no excuse to speak down to anyone, ever.)
Fin.
Love
I Corinthians 13: 3-7
Romans 13: 8
(i.e. there is no excuse to speak down to anyone, ever.)
Fin.
Love
I Corinthians 13: 3-7
Romans 13: 8
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Update.
I have had some wonderful opportunities in the past week or so. The foremost is having dinner with Madeleine Albright, the first female Secretary of State of the United States (under President Clinton). Though I sat at the table with her, unfortunately, with the set up I did not talk to her as much as I would have liked. In fact, the most I got in was thanking her and shaking her hand. After all the hype of the event and being asked to dine with her, I had been hoping to speak with her more--one on one. Oh well, I met her. She is a wonderful and kind lady.
In other news, I was also scheduled to staff the governor on Thursday for an event she was attending to advocate the Michigan Promise scholarship. That didn't happen, unfortunately. Largely, it was a fault in communication. I am not to concerned with this because I know that I will have many, many opportunities to meet and work with/next to the Governor. Education and jobs are priorities for her and working under her education advisor ensures these opportunities in the future.
I am still poor. I have to wait to hear about the Yehle Scholarship and I have not heard back from any of the places that I applied to so far about jobs. Andrew highlighted a bunch in the Michigan Daily for me. I had been planning on looking and going to get applications yesterday (Saturday), but I ended up getting a free ticket to see Michigan v. Notre Dame. It was a good game, but it became boring in the second half because the Wolverines were dominating so strongly. It was a shut-out. 38-0, U of M. I am happy they won, though I am not a huge fan. Their win ensures that this house is a happy and enjoyable place to be. So, U of M's record is 1-2. State's is 3-0. It will be interesting to see how next week goes.
I need to get a job, but I think I am going to have to do it during this week because my weekend is full. Carley, my cousin, is getting married on Sat the 22. It is a really informal wedding, but the party afterward should be really fun. I hope Andrew decides to go, just because Stephanie will be with Jared. I am not sure if anyone I really know will be there. I could hang out with my mom? She's pretty cool, but we'll see.
Today, I have to do my homework and hope my allergies clear up. I hope you are all well.
Peace.
Love
I Corinthians 13: 3-7
Romans 13: 8
I Corinthians 13: 3-7
Romans 13: 8
Monday, September 03, 2007
New phase in life.
Hello to all who may or may not read this.
I am writing to quickly update the small and very important portion of the world that cares enough to check my blog regardless of infrequent updates.
My life is taking a significant step in some unknown direction, hopefully forward. After contemplation, I decided on a full-time internship with Governor Granholm, analyzing education policy in her executive office. I am very excited for this opportunity. Though, admittedly, I am nervous. In addition to interning 43 hours a week, I am trying to find a part-time job to help cover the living costs. I will be commuting to Lansing and I need to be able to pay for gas, parking, food, some rent, and a cellular phone (for security).
It is liberating, in a way, to be working and not have to be doing homework all the time. We'll see how long I maintain that view. Change is refreshing. Just being in a new town is nice. Now, I need to somehow remain committed to the person I have become over the last few months. It becomes easy to revert to old behaviors when busy/stressed/overcoming new challenges - I don't want to come to that. The beauty that I saw and encountered over the summer I need and want to retain for the rest of my life. I want to be able to reinvigorate that feeling with experiences here, at home. To do this, I think the most important commitment I need to make is one to myself. I have, for the last 2 or 3 years, been lost in what I assume others expect of me. I was unhappy. For now, I believe the best thing for me to do is to return to the parts of myself that freed me when I was younger - music and art. My life has largely been void of these things for the past 2 years. Not only did these things give me time to focus, reflect, and find clarity but they gave me one of the most valuable things to proper self-happiness - time with myself. I also want to continue to write in my journal - something that I have tried to do for years with little success until my experience in Peru this summer. I am hopeful.
Also, Corey, I am very happy that you liked the baby bunny. I am glad someone could borrow the joy that I found from it. I hope your classes are going well and that you are finding time to smile.
Peace.
I am writing to quickly update the small and very important portion of the world that cares enough to check my blog regardless of infrequent updates.
My life is taking a significant step in some unknown direction, hopefully forward. After contemplation, I decided on a full-time internship with Governor Granholm, analyzing education policy in her executive office. I am very excited for this opportunity. Though, admittedly, I am nervous. In addition to interning 43 hours a week, I am trying to find a part-time job to help cover the living costs. I will be commuting to Lansing and I need to be able to pay for gas, parking, food, some rent, and a cellular phone (for security).
It is liberating, in a way, to be working and not have to be doing homework all the time. We'll see how long I maintain that view. Change is refreshing. Just being in a new town is nice. Now, I need to somehow remain committed to the person I have become over the last few months. It becomes easy to revert to old behaviors when busy/stressed/overcoming new challenges - I don't want to come to that. The beauty that I saw and encountered over the summer I need and want to retain for the rest of my life. I want to be able to reinvigorate that feeling with experiences here, at home. To do this, I think the most important commitment I need to make is one to myself. I have, for the last 2 or 3 years, been lost in what I assume others expect of me. I was unhappy. For now, I believe the best thing for me to do is to return to the parts of myself that freed me when I was younger - music and art. My life has largely been void of these things for the past 2 years. Not only did these things give me time to focus, reflect, and find clarity but they gave me one of the most valuable things to proper self-happiness - time with myself. I also want to continue to write in my journal - something that I have tried to do for years with little success until my experience in Peru this summer. I am hopeful.
Also, Corey, I am very happy that you liked the baby bunny. I am glad someone could borrow the joy that I found from it. I hope your classes are going well and that you are finding time to smile.
Peace.
Love
I Corinthians 13: 3-7
Romans 13: 8
I Corinthians 13: 3-7
Romans 13: 8
Friday, August 31, 2007
Sunday, July 22, 2007
When did this change?
I feel obligated to be around people or to allow people to be around me. A feeling of guilt sweeps over me when I tell someone that "I don´t want to go with" them or "don´t want to do that." I create reasons why I don´t have time or don´t feel well. For a few days at least I genuinely was not feeling well. My insides disappeared and all my shrivelled thoughts fed my solitary, disgusting pain. I honestly doubt that I would have been able to hold myself together with so many people around. Not that I would have sobbed all over the damn place, but I know how vacant I must have looked. One hell of a downer. It would have been one of those "I-miss-you-most-when-I-am-happy" things and I would ruin it for the whole lot. I was even explaining to people that my not going was doing them a favor. How saintly of me.
But now, having reached a static, dull, numbness, I should be able to at least fake interest in involvement with other people. However, what motivation do I have? I lack even enough guilt or concern to try being "okay."
Maybe it´s because I am not okay. Maybe this is the Denial step or whatever step follows Anger - listlessness? - depression? - apathy. Is apathy a step? Perhaps a "sub-step"? What about utter repulsion at the thought of having to put effort into anything? I think that is more than apathy. Resentment? Hate? Misdirected coping mechanism. . .Maybe it is jealousy. Envy. Maybe I covet their carefree attitude. I wish I could ignore these feelings and live ignorantly. Yes. It must be envy. They all seem so happy. They could care less for consequences. They are naive enough to think distance is inpenatrable. They taste everything and never cringe from the bitter aftertaste. They are young and uninvested and free to be self-absorbed. Free to be self-interested. Free from thought. Is jealousy a sub-step? Coveting ignorance or innocence. . .I think innocence is asking a bit much.
I want to be ignorant. I want to "think" I know the emotions well enough to enjoy them, but not well enough to feel the pain when life happens. This is my sub-step: Wishing I never had understood the truth. What comes next? There are 12-step plans for everything. I am sure there is one for broken hearts. BHA. I never want to meet with them though. . .I don´t feel like even trying. BHA: A Highly Ineffective 12-Step Support Group. In the same sick way I don´t care about anything right now, I am finding this BHA stuff to be B-List entertainment.
In conclusion, I feel like hell and I don´t want to feel differently except that I know I HAVE to feel differently because somone has given me a lot of money to keep my ass in gear and ignore personal issues.
El fin.
But now, having reached a static, dull, numbness, I should be able to at least fake interest in involvement with other people. However, what motivation do I have? I lack even enough guilt or concern to try being "okay."
Maybe it´s because I am not okay. Maybe this is the Denial step or whatever step follows Anger - listlessness? - depression? - apathy. Is apathy a step? Perhaps a "sub-step"? What about utter repulsion at the thought of having to put effort into anything? I think that is more than apathy. Resentment? Hate? Misdirected coping mechanism. . .Maybe it is jealousy. Envy. Maybe I covet their carefree attitude. I wish I could ignore these feelings and live ignorantly. Yes. It must be envy. They all seem so happy. They could care less for consequences. They are naive enough to think distance is inpenatrable. They taste everything and never cringe from the bitter aftertaste. They are young and uninvested and free to be self-absorbed. Free to be self-interested. Free from thought. Is jealousy a sub-step? Coveting ignorance or innocence. . .I think innocence is asking a bit much.
I want to be ignorant. I want to "think" I know the emotions well enough to enjoy them, but not well enough to feel the pain when life happens. This is my sub-step: Wishing I never had understood the truth. What comes next? There are 12-step plans for everything. I am sure there is one for broken hearts. BHA. I never want to meet with them though. . .I don´t feel like even trying. BHA: A Highly Ineffective 12-Step Support Group. In the same sick way I don´t care about anything right now, I am finding this BHA stuff to be B-List entertainment.
In conclusion, I feel like hell and I don´t want to feel differently except that I know I HAVE to feel differently because somone has given me a lot of money to keep my ass in gear and ignore personal issues.
El fin.
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