Role Models

I'se been on the move! Paper writing, test-taking, dissertation topic developing. There's been so much academic action, that I didn't realize how much I've actually been doing until I slowed down enough to think about what's been happening.

Today, after an extensive stats assignment got handed in and a Communities and Orgs examination was finished, I took my handy Starbucks gift card that I got as part of my 2 year anniversary gift, and I bought myself a drank! Yup, big ole' green tea frappacino. In the rain, I walked, uncovered, devouring my delectable, odd-colored reward, and I enjoyed every single minute.

I made my way back to campus this evening for a department dinner which gathered staff and students from varying phases of the PhD process for food and networking. The head of our department took the time to personally prepare us some traditional fare, and we ate and talked about our experiences, sharing questions and tips about making it through.

One thing I can truly say about this experience is that the students from the advanced cohorts really take the time to help us push our way through this experience. They stayed with us for hours after the staff had gone home and offered important tips of self-care, balance, and perseverance.

Although I'd had repeated experiences with them like this before, I was really touched this evening by their degree of thorough support and availability to us as we chart the territory that they've passed through. I truly felt blessed by their kindness and consistent mentorship; hearing their stories helps me strategize, and encourages me to pay it forward.

Tonight, I give thanks for each and every one of them. On the altar I place their names and ask for God's choicest blessings on them, not only for their personal academic journeys, but that their full lives be covered and blessed. Thank you Lord for yet another way in which you continue to provide. Although I'm not here with family and close loved ones, You keep showing me that You have not left me to walk this road alone.