On the Flip Side

After that last post from over the weekend, this week has been reminding me that I need to count my blessings; and I was lucky enough to add some more to the list.

I had a midterm presentation last week, and for the first time in my whole entire academic career, I got comments that said things like, "Spoke confidently," and "Seemed comfortable speaking to the group." It doesn't sound like a big deal, and at face value it really isn't. But if you know me, and you know where I used to be, you'd understand. If you knew how my insecurities used to paralyze me when I stood up in front of a class to give presentations, you'd understand. If you knew what a journey it has been over the last year for me to learn how to love and accept myself, you'd understand. You'd understand what an impact a simple comment like that has on my self-perception. It's kind of like someone saying, "Here, you've worked so hard and now you get a bowl of ice cream." I am proud of myself, because I think I've come a long way...and things like that are really affirmations that it is a visible change in my demeanor and the way I carry myself.

My best friend is home. :) Have you ever had one of those people in your life...where all they have to do is walk in a room and instantly everything feels better? That's what it's like. I may only see him for short periods of time, and those times may be only three times a year...but that's okay. Because nothing changes...the support and the love are there no matter where in the world he is and no matter where in the world I am. I'm a lucky girl, and I'm thankful to have him in my life every day.

In addition to those two spirit-lifting events in my life, I have been nothing short of blessed by my good friend Cortney. Early in the semester she asked if I would come to the pool early and kind of coach her, mostly help her stay on task and spice up the workouts a little while she trains for the 2012 Para-Olympics. Just this last week, she informed me that she would like to pay me for my services, because she heard that I was looking for another job to supplement my income to help pay for my studies in Costa Rica this summer. Stunned, I told her I appreciated it, but she didn't have to do that. She insisted, saying that she wants to help support me and my learning and my goals to become a better teacher. I was speechless. I still am. "Thank you," seems inadequate.

Bad days and low moments are acceptable. As long as I remember all the beautiful things I have to lift me up. :)