Wonder

This just earned itself a place on my list of favorites. A rare gem. I don't remember a book that made me cry this much, especially so early on.

It breaks my heart when kids are robbed of a carefree childhood. It's just not fair.

But that Auggie.. he truly is a wonder. Did not expect a little fifth grade boy to change me, to teach me about life today, but he did.

As an aside, I felt so old, reading about the teachers, parents, and students communicating through texts and emails. Googling and Facebooking. When I was in fifth grade, internet was still a relatively newfangled concept! I don't even think I knew anyone who owned a cell phone, let alone have one myself. The idea of texting would have blown my mind!

"Everyone in the world should get a standing ovation at least once in their life because we all overcometh the world." -August Pullman

First patient

Saw my first patient today. It was somewhat anti-climactical for a few reasons. I don't even want to talk about it, but this is another milestone I feel like I should note for posterity's sake.

Sigh

It's been a tumultuous few days. I always feel so dumb coming back to the same realization time and time again (like WHY can't I remember?! -__-), but nevertheless: I need Jesus. As much as I think I can do everything on my own, the truth is I can't. He is my strength and purpose. I pray that these experiences teach me, mold me, shape me to be more like him.

Take that, Chipotle

Lunch for today was tacos: chili-spiced shrimp, black beans, cheese, and homemade salsa wrapped in a soft corn tortilla. Yumm...

Disclaimer: Just kidding, Chipotle! I could never turn my back on you.. even if I can make a mean taco from time to time.

Public transportation & NPR

A bit of bad news: my beloved old car seems to be on his (Yes. His name is Milo, for the record) last few years of life. I was driving home from school last week, and one of the stick shift gears completely stopped working. A couple days later, all of the gears broke. I decided to repair the problem, since I need something to drive until I can get a new car, but this left me car-less while Milo got some TLC.

Thus, in the meantime, I used public transportation (aka city bus) to get to school for the past few days. I have never ridden on it before, but it has its benefits. First, it's free to full-time students here, and secondly, it's actually pretty fast. I think I arrived at school more quickly than I ever have driving, which consists of fighting morning traffic to get to the parking lot, trying to find a parking spot, and walking 10 more minutes uphill to my class--typically a 30-40 minute commute.

So instead of getting to school all frazzled, I've come in relatively relaxed. I simply walk to the bus stop which is luxuriously right across the street from my apt, wait, get on the bus, wait, get off the bus and then walk a short distance. It's a lot of sitting around, and to pass the time..

I started listening to public radio's This American Life via podcast. This segment is AMAZING, people! I'm hooked. The themes are so random, but somehow it's written in a way that draws me in.

For example, I just listened to one titled, "Take the Money and Run for Office", about how politicians fundraise and how money is turned over in Washington. This is a topic that I normally would have absolutely no interest in, but I kid you not, by the end of the story I was shaking my head and indignant, saying "this ain't right", like I was directly in the line of fire of corruption going on.. even though 30 minutes prior I had no idea it was even an issue! haha. So I've found that TAL is a good way of stepping into other, real life people's shoes for a bit.

I just picked up Milo from the shop, good as new (sort of), so it's back to my regular routine, but it's been an interesting week.

Grateful Tuesday

Today, I was going to school when I realized that I forgot my wallet and didn't bring any food for lunch. I had a huge test in the afternoon, and was planning to stay late to get some other lab work done afterward, so I was slightly concerned how I was going to make it till 6pm. For some reason, I'm especially adamant about making sure I eat before taking a test.. like my blood sugar level is going to make or break my grade. Anyway, so I threw out a prayer, asking for provision and help with my exam.

I actually didn't get to eat before my test, but thankfully it went well anyway. :) But afterward, I had an hour to kill, and my friends happened to be heading over to lunch the same time I called them. They graciously picked me up and spotted me a yummy sandwich, and I went back to lab and finished a good chunk of assignments I was behind on.

So yes.. God provides. Thankful for my education, for food, for friends. Thank you!