Yes, I'll admit it. I'm a slacker. I haven't posted in more than a month now. My apologies.
It probably won't get better any time soon. Grad school occupies my mind and my time. There's lots swirling around in my little head these days.
So this is a note to tell you you can stop checking in for awhile. I think I'll probably write some about the trip I'm taking to Egypt for New Year's, so if you want to check back in around then, perhaps you'll find something interesting to read.
Meanwhile, I have plenty to read, myself...
Monday, November 26, 2007
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Mad skills
Today Maike and I switched out our car stereos (with a little help from Liz and Bobbie). That's right, folks. We didn't want to pay the folks at Circuit City to do the dirty work, so we installed two car stereos - and without the help of the internet! And they both work!
I have to say, I'm pretty impressed with us...
A dishwasher last year, car stereos this year. What will we do next? We're regular Ms. Fix-Its!
I have to say, I'm pretty impressed with us...
A dishwasher last year, car stereos this year. What will we do next? We're regular Ms. Fix-Its!
Monday, October 15, 2007
Surely We Can Change
I'm not generally a lyrics-poster, but I really love this song. It reads like poetry. I hope you get something out of it too:
and the problem is this: we were bought with a kiss,
but the cheek still turned, even when it wasn’t hit.
and i don’t know what to do with a love like that
and i don’t know how to be a love like that
when all the love in the world is right here among us
and hatred too, and so we must choose what our hands will do
and the problem is this: we were bought with a kiss,
but the cheek still turned, even when it wasn’t hit.
and i don’t know what to do with a love like that
and i don’t know how to be a love like that
when all the love in the world is right here among us
and hatred too, and so we must choose what our hands will do
where there is pain, let there be grace.
where there is suffering, bring serenity.
for those afraid, help them be brave.
where there is misery, bring expectancy.
and surely we can change something.
and the problem it seems is with you and me,
not the Love who came to repair everything
and i don’t know what to do with a love like that.
and i don’t know how to be a love like that.
when all the love in the world is right here, among us.
and hatred too and so we must choose what our hands will do.
where there is pain, let us bring grace.
where there is suffering, bring serenity.
for those afraid, let us be brave.
where there is misery, let us bring them relief.
and surely we can change something.
- "Surely We Can Change," David Crowder Band
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
On the Cusp
I am on the cusp of busyness.
I think I am on the cusp of a new life altogether.
And this is becoming slightly less scary to me these days.
I now have work to do beyond endless pages of reading. I will soon be asked to produce original thought and to describe it well with the written word. I will have to stop choosing live television over the articles I need to read because, well, I will not have time to make up for that choice later. I will have to stop taking naps that I don't need, and that probably aren't good for me because, well, this is the life I have chosen and I am right now choosing to do it well.
Last week I met a handful of new people who aren't in my department and I enjoyed them. I allowed myself to just enjoy them. This graduate school experience has been so jolting, so disorienting, that I reacted initially by withdrawing. And I judged people harshly - You're not made of the stuff I want my friends to be made of. You drink too much. You don't know how to be serious. You're just trying to impress everyone around you, rather than learning. But this last week, I came out of my shell. I decided to like people again. I decided to live like I'm going to be here for awhile. And now I have people to do things with. And I am already happier.
I have also decided to take some steps to make sure I am more healthy physically and spiritually. A couple of years ago someone recommended to me that I take an hour of the 24 each day to ensure both of those kinds of health. What does that mean? Well, for now, I think it means I'm going to get up at a normal hour, go for a half hour walk (or maybe run, eventually), then spend half an hour with God. I know, I know. It sounds a little prescribed. It is. But there's something to be said for discipline, and I'm severely lacking it in both my physical and spiritual lives. So I'm going to try this plan out. And you should ask me about it now and again so I have some motivation to keep at it.
I think I am on the cusp of a new life altogether.
And this is becoming slightly less scary to me these days.
I now have work to do beyond endless pages of reading. I will soon be asked to produce original thought and to describe it well with the written word. I will have to stop choosing live television over the articles I need to read because, well, I will not have time to make up for that choice later. I will have to stop taking naps that I don't need, and that probably aren't good for me because, well, this is the life I have chosen and I am right now choosing to do it well.
Last week I met a handful of new people who aren't in my department and I enjoyed them. I allowed myself to just enjoy them. This graduate school experience has been so jolting, so disorienting, that I reacted initially by withdrawing. And I judged people harshly - You're not made of the stuff I want my friends to be made of. You drink too much. You don't know how to be serious. You're just trying to impress everyone around you, rather than learning. But this last week, I came out of my shell. I decided to like people again. I decided to live like I'm going to be here for awhile. And now I have people to do things with. And I am already happier.
I have also decided to take some steps to make sure I am more healthy physically and spiritually. A couple of years ago someone recommended to me that I take an hour of the 24 each day to ensure both of those kinds of health. What does that mean? Well, for now, I think it means I'm going to get up at a normal hour, go for a half hour walk (or maybe run, eventually), then spend half an hour with God. I know, I know. It sounds a little prescribed. It is. But there's something to be said for discipline, and I'm severely lacking it in both my physical and spiritual lives. So I'm going to try this plan out. And you should ask me about it now and again so I have some motivation to keep at it.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Righteous Indignation [revised]
Friday morning I was seething. Presented with yet another instance of the poor being treated as second class citizens, I reacted immediately with anger. Later, my anger turned to sadness.
I have been looking for a place to begin volunteering regularly. It's tremendously important to me to continue to serve, especially since service is no longer my full time job. It would be easy for me to slip into academia and be a full time student, filling all of my free time with books, salsa dancing, and socializing. But I would not be fulfilled. And I would not have been true to my passions.
I did a bit of online research and came across an organization that operates very similarly to the one I just left. "Perfect!" I thought, and I traipsed on down there to turn in my volunteer application this Friday morning.
The address on the web gave me the impression that this organization was free standing in its own building, but on that block, all I could find were a giant church (who I'd read was affiliated with this non-profit) and a firehouse. After trying several locked doors, I finally found my way to the church office to ask about the organization. The church is beautiful. It's well decorated, and their technology looks great. There are signs up by a couple of the doors advertising an approaching church expansion, too. They're building a beautiful new courtyard and upgrading their lovely facilities. A man at the desk pointed me to the back of the building, an alley entrance, where the non-profit I was seeking is housed, and I headed on my way.
The aesthetic contrast of these two facilities was more than striking. The organization I was seeking is essentially located in the church basement. Its walls are bright 1970s orange and soiled. The wooden railings on the staircases are worn, and the floors are tiled, industrial. There's a sign on the entrance to the kitchen reminding patrons that camping on church property is strictly forbidden.
The church above is doing well enough financially to improve its already beautiful facilities, while the poor below sit in rooms that look like they haven't been redone in 30-40 years. The hierarchy inherent in this aesthetic statement makes me sick. And oh so angry.
Upon further investigation, I discovered that this non-profit is financially independent from the aforementioned church, but it depends largely on religious organizations for monetary donations. I wonder, how many of the church-goers above donate to the poor below? How many of them have taken it a step further to volunteer in the basement? How many of them have noticed the grungy facilities? WHY AREN'T THEY DOING ANYTHING ABOUT IT?!!
I walked away in anger, initially thinking I could never be a part of such flawed thinking. I cannot perpetuate that kind of hierarchy. I cannot believe that the poor deserve less.
Later that evening, I shared my indignation with some friends who kindly reminded me of my own growth process. I did not come to realize these flawed hierarchies and assumptions until I was surrounded by a conversation of hospitality and hope. I did not understand what it meant to love thy neighbor until I saw it modeled before me. Abandoning this service, or this faith community, because I disagree with their way of doing things (or their apathy), only allows the flawed beliefs to continue. It allows the poor to continue to be treated as second class citizens.
So I think that I'm going to try to spark some conversation, to shake things up a bit. And maybe we'll all learn to love a little better in the process.
I have been looking for a place to begin volunteering regularly. It's tremendously important to me to continue to serve, especially since service is no longer my full time job. It would be easy for me to slip into academia and be a full time student, filling all of my free time with books, salsa dancing, and socializing. But I would not be fulfilled. And I would not have been true to my passions.
I did a bit of online research and came across an organization that operates very similarly to the one I just left. "Perfect!" I thought, and I traipsed on down there to turn in my volunteer application this Friday morning.
The address on the web gave me the impression that this organization was free standing in its own building, but on that block, all I could find were a giant church (who I'd read was affiliated with this non-profit) and a firehouse. After trying several locked doors, I finally found my way to the church office to ask about the organization. The church is beautiful. It's well decorated, and their technology looks great. There are signs up by a couple of the doors advertising an approaching church expansion, too. They're building a beautiful new courtyard and upgrading their lovely facilities. A man at the desk pointed me to the back of the building, an alley entrance, where the non-profit I was seeking is housed, and I headed on my way.
The aesthetic contrast of these two facilities was more than striking. The organization I was seeking is essentially located in the church basement. Its walls are bright 1970s orange and soiled. The wooden railings on the staircases are worn, and the floors are tiled, industrial. There's a sign on the entrance to the kitchen reminding patrons that camping on church property is strictly forbidden.
The church above is doing well enough financially to improve its already beautiful facilities, while the poor below sit in rooms that look like they haven't been redone in 30-40 years. The hierarchy inherent in this aesthetic statement makes me sick. And oh so angry.
Upon further investigation, I discovered that this non-profit is financially independent from the aforementioned church, but it depends largely on religious organizations for monetary donations. I wonder, how many of the church-goers above donate to the poor below? How many of them have taken it a step further to volunteer in the basement? How many of them have noticed the grungy facilities? WHY AREN'T THEY DOING ANYTHING ABOUT IT?!!
I walked away in anger, initially thinking I could never be a part of such flawed thinking. I cannot perpetuate that kind of hierarchy. I cannot believe that the poor deserve less.
Later that evening, I shared my indignation with some friends who kindly reminded me of my own growth process. I did not come to realize these flawed hierarchies and assumptions until I was surrounded by a conversation of hospitality and hope. I did not understand what it meant to love thy neighbor until I saw it modeled before me. Abandoning this service, or this faith community, because I disagree with their way of doing things (or their apathy), only allows the flawed beliefs to continue. It allows the poor to continue to be treated as second class citizens.
So I think that I'm going to try to spark some conversation, to shake things up a bit. And maybe we'll all learn to love a little better in the process.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Tackling Homelessness
Remember that fundraising events with the Colts I helped with in August? The one I got to help emcee? Well, do I have a link for you!
Here's a slideshow of some of the event photos. I'm told the event raised nearly $75,000 - a 65% increase from last year!
http://bobbiandmike.com/slideshows/horizonhouse/
Here's a slideshow of some of the event photos. I'm told the event raised nearly $75,000 - a 65% increase from last year!
http://bobbiandmike.com/slideshows/horizonhouse/
Monday, September 03, 2007
The non-academic side
This weekend was so lovely. I spent Saturday night and all day Sunday in Indianapolis with my friend Megan. She showed me an amazing time, full of great conversation and the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. On Saturday night, after working hard to make her new arroz con pollo recipe, we wandered downtown to walk the canal. We did not, however, realize that everyone else in the city had wandered down there too, only for the Labor Day fireworks display. It was a fantastic surprise. The fireworks were good, the music an odd assortment, and the people watching spectacular.
Sunday morning I read some homework in a coffeehouse before church (sitting right across from a very attractive man doing the same thing). It was a GORGEOUS day, and the walk to the coffeehouse brought a sense of peace to me that I haven't experienced in some time. The church service was really enjoyable, as well.
Afterwards we headed to Eagle Creek Reservoir, where we spent several hours kayaking at a leisurely pace. Megan even packed fresh watermelon for the trip. And in the evening we headed to the Rib America Festival, a giant celebration of BBQ accompanied by a Hootie and the Blowfish concert. Great, great, great.
The university does not cancel classes for Labor Day, so it was back to work today. Still, when my evening class finished, I caught dinner at the Pita Pit with friends and attended a three hour long salsa class. Three hours! We're learning the Rueda de Casino, which is a group dance, different from anything I've done before. I included myself in the intermediate level class tonight, but I find myself wondering if I should stick to "beginner" for now. In any case, it felt so good to be doing something so familiar, even if it's in a brand new place with brand new people.
I love it when you all comment, by the way *hint, hint*
Sunday morning I read some homework in a coffeehouse before church (sitting right across from a very attractive man doing the same thing). It was a GORGEOUS day, and the walk to the coffeehouse brought a sense of peace to me that I haven't experienced in some time. The church service was really enjoyable, as well.
Afterwards we headed to Eagle Creek Reservoir, where we spent several hours kayaking at a leisurely pace. Megan even packed fresh watermelon for the trip. And in the evening we headed to the Rib America Festival, a giant celebration of BBQ accompanied by a Hootie and the Blowfish concert. Great, great, great.
The university does not cancel classes for Labor Day, so it was back to work today. Still, when my evening class finished, I caught dinner at the Pita Pit with friends and attended a three hour long salsa class. Three hours! We're learning the Rueda de Casino, which is a group dance, different from anything I've done before. I included myself in the intermediate level class tonight, but I find myself wondering if I should stick to "beginner" for now. In any case, it felt so good to be doing something so familiar, even if it's in a brand new place with brand new people.
I love it when you all comment, by the way *hint, hint*
Saturday, September 01, 2007
Death
I have "spider bombed" the basement. Now, in theory, I am entirely pest free.
And given that I've already seen a couple of newly dead spiders, I am rejoicing!
And given that I've already seen a couple of newly dead spiders, I am rejoicing!
Friday, August 31, 2007
My new couch
I know it's lame, but I'm excited about my new couch, and I think you all should be too. So here she is.
First week
I have officially completed my very first week of graduate school. The classes are HARD. One of my professors used the word prolegomenon THREE TIMES IN ONE LECTURE. I'd never heard the word before in my life. And, Lord knows, after looking it up, I'm still wondering why he doesn't just say prologue, like the rest of us.
I'm sure that once I train my brain to think differently, and faster, these classes will be an absolute pleasure. For now, though, I find myself thinking "What in the world have I gotten myself into?!"
I have not had much time to explore the town; Indy keeps drawing me back over the weekends. I feel like a freshman that keeps going back home, but it's difficult to ignore obligations and relationships back there when I have only such superficial ones here.
I'm sure that once I train my brain to think differently, and faster, these classes will be an absolute pleasure. For now, though, I find myself thinking "What in the world have I gotten myself into?!"
I have not had much time to explore the town; Indy keeps drawing me back over the weekends. I feel like a freshman that keeps going back home, but it's difficult to ignore obligations and relationships back there when I have only such superficial ones here.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
And now for something completely different...
Today was my first day of teaching. I've got two sections of Public Speaking this semester - my favorite subject! Now, I have plenty of experience speaking in public, but I have never formally taught before. I certainly have never been in charge of anyone's college grades before. It's going to be an adventure.
Class #2 was far better than class #1, probably because I'd already had a test run. It went very smoothly and I sounded like I knew what I was talking about. At the end of the class, one of my students came up to me and asked, "When you were in college, did you take any education classes?" "No." "Wow," he responded. "You sure can't tell!"
This guy is officially my new favorite student. :) Whether he was trying to earn a few brownie points early on, I don't know. What I do know is that I needed a bit of a confidence boost - someone to tell me I am capable of doing this - and this freshman boy gave me those words of encouragement.
Thursday will present an entirely new challenge. It won't be syllabus day anymore. The classes will have done a reading assignment, and I have to figure out what I'm going to do with them for 75 minutes based on that reading. Yikes!
Class #2 was far better than class #1, probably because I'd already had a test run. It went very smoothly and I sounded like I knew what I was talking about. At the end of the class, one of my students came up to me and asked, "When you were in college, did you take any education classes?" "No." "Wow," he responded. "You sure can't tell!"
This guy is officially my new favorite student. :) Whether he was trying to earn a few brownie points early on, I don't know. What I do know is that I needed a bit of a confidence boost - someone to tell me I am capable of doing this - and this freshman boy gave me those words of encouragement.
Thursday will present an entirely new challenge. It won't be syllabus day anymore. The classes will have done a reading assignment, and I have to figure out what I'm going to do with them for 75 minutes based on that reading. Yikes!
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Spiders
I live in the basement now. And there are spiders. Lots of them. The Raid isn't working, and my legs are covered in itchy red bites that happen when the spiders sneak into my bed at night. It's kind of horrifying. Suggestions? I must rid the basement of these annoying little creatures immediately.
And on another note, I'm sad tonight. I shouldn't be. We hosted a game night at my place and enjoyed a room full of fun people. But I am. It's hard to be in a new place, even when it's exciting.
And on another note, I'm sad tonight. I shouldn't be. We hosted a game night at my place and enjoyed a room full of fun people. But I am. It's hard to be in a new place, even when it's exciting.
Sunday, August 19, 2007
The catch up
It has been so very long since I've sat down to record the events of my life for you all. Much has happened in the last several weeks, and I am overwhelmed. I am in a brand new place with a suddenly brand new life, craving the familiar.
When my time as a VISTA member came to a close, I had two weeks of freedom. I traveled to North Carolina to help one of my roommates move - seeing both the beach and the mountains in just one weekend. I also visited friends in Washington, DC for a week. During that journey, I went to the beach in Delaware, enjoyed an outdoor film on the National Mall, read a lot of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (which I still haven't finished), lost several games of Scrabble, and shared meals with some seriously quality people. It was really nice to be surrounded by a bunch of Progressives.
Immediately upon my return to Indy, my mom met me there to help with my packing. We also took a day trip up to Chicago - a first for her. It was a lovely day, but not nearly long enough.
Last Sunday I moved into my new house in Bloomington. It comes with a bunch of new challenges, including some spider extermination and a lack of storage space, but I think I'm going to really like this space. I have also been learning how to be a teacher. In just one week, I will be in charge of the education of 48 college freshmen, instructing them in the art of public speaking. It's terrifying, yet exciting.
I didn't expect this transition to be as hard as it is. It was a kind of whirlwind - like I ripped myself suddenly away from everything that's made sense for the last year, and away from friends who have been around for even longer. Now, in this new setting, I already long to be back in my familiar little world. But I recognize the importance of this new step in my life, and I am committed to making the most of my graduate school experience.
When my time as a VISTA member came to a close, I had two weeks of freedom. I traveled to North Carolina to help one of my roommates move - seeing both the beach and the mountains in just one weekend. I also visited friends in Washington, DC for a week. During that journey, I went to the beach in Delaware, enjoyed an outdoor film on the National Mall, read a lot of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (which I still haven't finished), lost several games of Scrabble, and shared meals with some seriously quality people. It was really nice to be surrounded by a bunch of Progressives.
Immediately upon my return to Indy, my mom met me there to help with my packing. We also took a day trip up to Chicago - a first for her. It was a lovely day, but not nearly long enough.
Last Sunday I moved into my new house in Bloomington. It comes with a bunch of new challenges, including some spider extermination and a lack of storage space, but I think I'm going to really like this space. I have also been learning how to be a teacher. In just one week, I will be in charge of the education of 48 college freshmen, instructing them in the art of public speaking. It's terrifying, yet exciting.
I didn't expect this transition to be as hard as it is. It was a kind of whirlwind - like I ripped myself suddenly away from everything that's made sense for the last year, and away from friends who have been around for even longer. Now, in this new setting, I already long to be back in my familiar little world. But I recognize the importance of this new step in my life, and I am committed to making the most of my graduate school experience.
Saturday, July 07, 2007
Apology from a bad blogger
Sorry I've been such a terrible blogger. I'm having a great time lately, making more memories before each of the VISTA members part ways. To all of you who keep checking, well, keep checking. Near the beginning of August, grad school will start up, and I'm sure I'll have plenty to say about that new experience. But I probably won't have much to say online until then.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Perfect Summer Weekend
This past weekend was idyllic...the perfect summer weekend.
Saturday I roamed Bloomington and found a great place to live for the next year. I'll be taking over the basement of a house where two other graduate students (and a dog) live. It's incredibly spacious, allows me privacy or community as I desire them, and isn't in the ghetto! At least, I don't think it's in the ghetto. :) The weather for this search day was just beautiful - sunny, warm but not scorching, and with a great breeze. Lovely.
In the evening, when I returned, Neubia and I went to the Indianapolis Italian festival, where we ate some GREAT food, did a lot of people watching, and danced to silly songs. I love this season of cultural festivals. Indy does them really well.
Afterwards, a game of Trivial Pursuit with new friends. And my team won. You KNOW how much I loved that. :)
Sunday afternoon I helped a group of friends work on improving a community garden. Gardening is not one of my favorite activities, but it felt good to be outside, and it felt good to do some manual labor. Then, I headed to the lake with these friends and spent the evening sailing, kayaking, fishing, and cooking out. I had never been sailing or kayaking before, but I enjoyed both experiences. And I caught two catfish! I keep trying to act like we could have cooked them if there hadn't already been too many burgers, but Maike keeps calling me out...I guess I now have a Big Fish story of my own. I suppose this evening on the lake is really what I am referring to when I say it was "idyllic."
Next week I will be in Pennsylvania helping set up for a community revitalization/rehab project. My travels will take me to Reading and Pittsburg for sure, but I'm hoping to get a little Philly in too. Perhaps I'll take a moment to tell you all about that journey when I return.
Saturday I roamed Bloomington and found a great place to live for the next year. I'll be taking over the basement of a house where two other graduate students (and a dog) live. It's incredibly spacious, allows me privacy or community as I desire them, and isn't in the ghetto! At least, I don't think it's in the ghetto. :) The weather for this search day was just beautiful - sunny, warm but not scorching, and with a great breeze. Lovely.
In the evening, when I returned, Neubia and I went to the Indianapolis Italian festival, where we ate some GREAT food, did a lot of people watching, and danced to silly songs. I love this season of cultural festivals. Indy does them really well.
Afterwards, a game of Trivial Pursuit with new friends. And my team won. You KNOW how much I loved that. :)
Sunday afternoon I helped a group of friends work on improving a community garden. Gardening is not one of my favorite activities, but it felt good to be outside, and it felt good to do some manual labor. Then, I headed to the lake with these friends and spent the evening sailing, kayaking, fishing, and cooking out. I had never been sailing or kayaking before, but I enjoyed both experiences. And I caught two catfish! I keep trying to act like we could have cooked them if there hadn't already been too many burgers, but Maike keeps calling me out...I guess I now have a Big Fish story of my own. I suppose this evening on the lake is really what I am referring to when I say it was "idyllic."
Next week I will be in Pennsylvania helping set up for a community revitalization/rehab project. My travels will take me to Reading and Pittsburg for sure, but I'm hoping to get a little Philly in too. Perhaps I'll take a moment to tell you all about that journey when I return.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Balloons and Roses
Last week when I walked into my office I encountered an unusual scene. In my chair there were balloons, a gift bag, a rose, and a sign that declared May 24, 2007 the "Designated Whitney Day." No one in my office space seemed to know where it had come from, and my birthday had passed weeks ago, so I couldn't figure out what all the fanfare was about.
I opened up the gift bag to find a couple of little trinkets - a stuffed dog and a glass swan(?) figurine. There was also a card signed by a "secret admirer."
As I read the card, I got a little teary eyed. It was an expression of gratitude for all that I've done in my time at Horizon House from someone who "sees the angel" in me. It was from one of our formerly homeless neighbors.
I'm not sure I deserve such recognition. Because "I'm not better, I'm just here," remember?
But even still, it meant A LOT. This evening I'm sitting in my living room, staring at that rose, so grateful that I am here now, doing this.
I opened up the gift bag to find a couple of little trinkets - a stuffed dog and a glass swan(?) figurine. There was also a card signed by a "secret admirer."
As I read the card, I got a little teary eyed. It was an expression of gratitude for all that I've done in my time at Horizon House from someone who "sees the angel" in me. It was from one of our formerly homeless neighbors.
I'm not sure I deserve such recognition. Because "I'm not better, I'm just here," remember?
But even still, it meant A LOT. This evening I'm sitting in my living room, staring at that rose, so grateful that I am here now, doing this.
Monday, May 07, 2007
A special graduation
This weekend I was privileged to attend a graduation ceremony at Ivy Tech community college. Two of our previously homeless neighbors were receiving degrees in human services. I cannot imagine how my friend LuWanna must have felt that afternoon. After more than 10 years of homelessness & 27 years of drug addiction, she has come so far! She's now married, reunited with her family, serving as a minister and support group leader, a board member, and a college graduate. Housed now for 5 years, she has turned a very difficult life story into an amazing blessing. She didn't need that piece of paper to prove to me that she can change lives, nor a ceremony to initiate her into human services. But oh how far she's come! Oh how far she'll go!
I still find it unbelievable that I am privileged to have these experiences. I work with people who like to visit homeless men in the hospital, who get excited about a neighbor's open house - even in his tiny "crackerbox" apartment. I have opportunities to mix with local government officials and Super Bowl-winning NFL players as we fight homelessness together. And I hear spectacular stories of obstacles overcome each day.
There are a mere 2.5 months left in my service term, but I'm planning to soak up each of these moments - these triumphs and these tragedies in the lives of the Indianapolis homeless population. I will savor what time I do have left.
I still find it unbelievable that I am privileged to have these experiences. I work with people who like to visit homeless men in the hospital, who get excited about a neighbor's open house - even in his tiny "crackerbox" apartment. I have opportunities to mix with local government officials and Super Bowl-winning NFL players as we fight homelessness together. And I hear spectacular stories of obstacles overcome each day.
There are a mere 2.5 months left in my service term, but I'm planning to soak up each of these moments - these triumphs and these tragedies in the lives of the Indianapolis homeless population. I will savor what time I do have left.
Monday, April 30, 2007
For your reading pleasure
Last week my friend Ryan contacted me to see if I'd like to team up with him to write an editorial for the Indianapolis Star. We had a fantastic writing session - "VISTA collaboration" - and this is what came out it today's paper:
Serving Our Neighbors, Wherever They Are
Serving Our Neighbors, Wherever They Are
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
More Learning Experiences
It's been an interesting week - very educational. I really love that sometimes my VISTA position involves supplemental training. These last two days have offered me unique opportunities to learn even more about the social service sector.
Yesterday I toured the Plainfield prisoner re-entry facility. In essence, it's a minimum security prison that aims to reduce recidivism by giving prisoners the tools they need to succeed in the "real world" when they're released. When prisoners are released from their terms, there is often nothing for them beyond the prison gates. Their families and friends have moved on. Sometimes they've missed decades of progress. Some of the guys in the Plainfield facility are learning how to use debit cards because the cards didn't exist when they started their sentences. Others have no idea how to turn on a computer because computers were barely used when they started their sentences.
When Indiana prisoners are released, they have $75 in hand and the clothes on their backs. Many of them end up homeless because they don't have support networks waiting for them, they don't have the financial resources to find housing for themselves, and they've been so severely institutionalized that they don't know how to function in our day to day lives any longer. Because of this, more than 60% of prisoners end up back in jail, and soon. That's not reformation. It's just sad.
The Plainfield facility is working to combat those numbers by mimicking life on the outside. It's more of a campus than a prison, with dorm-style living and the freedom to wander around within the prison fence. The inmates attend classes on construction skills (from plumbing to carpentry to electric) or the culinary arts. This helps them have some marketable skills for their release. Some of the men never had real jobs prior to their incarceration. The men also must work several hours each day around the prison - earning their keep. They receive support services and are encouraged to re-unite with their families.
As I walked through the facilities and looked in each of those men's faces, I found myself wondering about them. What did they do to get in there? Did they feel remorse? Would they make it? But more than that, I found myself contemplating grace - again. These men are being offered another chance at life, and I want them to have that chance. I want to see them succeed and thrive and make a positive impact on the world around them. Perhaps that's not a chance they deserve to have, but that is grace.
Today I had the opportunity to tour a couple of properties operated by Partners in Housing Development Corporation (PIH). PIH is dedicated to creating supportive housing solutions for our homeless neighbors in Indianapolis. Basically that means that they pair social services, i.e. case management, with affordable housing units. Indy's Blueprint to End Homelessness calls for the creation of 1700 new affordable housing units in the city. PIH is making it happen, and it's incredible to see. They, too, are about second chances and third chances...and fiftieth chances.
I hope that I really believe in this kind of grace on a personal level. I do desperately desire it for the people our organizations serve, but do I extend that kind of forgiveness and fiftieth chance when it comes to my day to day interactions? to my personal relationships? I'm not sure I always do, and I don't understand why that inconsistency exists. Why is it harder for me to extend grace to a prisoner serving out a 20 year sentence than to someone who personally wrongs me? Is it because that prisoner's offense is impersonal to me? I think that maybe grace on a personal grace is the deepest kind of grace there is...because it requires the most of us. It is truly sacrificial. I want to love like that.
Yesterday I toured the Plainfield prisoner re-entry facility. In essence, it's a minimum security prison that aims to reduce recidivism by giving prisoners the tools they need to succeed in the "real world" when they're released. When prisoners are released from their terms, there is often nothing for them beyond the prison gates. Their families and friends have moved on. Sometimes they've missed decades of progress. Some of the guys in the Plainfield facility are learning how to use debit cards because the cards didn't exist when they started their sentences. Others have no idea how to turn on a computer because computers were barely used when they started their sentences.
When Indiana prisoners are released, they have $75 in hand and the clothes on their backs. Many of them end up homeless because they don't have support networks waiting for them, they don't have the financial resources to find housing for themselves, and they've been so severely institutionalized that they don't know how to function in our day to day lives any longer. Because of this, more than 60% of prisoners end up back in jail, and soon. That's not reformation. It's just sad.
The Plainfield facility is working to combat those numbers by mimicking life on the outside. It's more of a campus than a prison, with dorm-style living and the freedom to wander around within the prison fence. The inmates attend classes on construction skills (from plumbing to carpentry to electric) or the culinary arts. This helps them have some marketable skills for their release. Some of the men never had real jobs prior to their incarceration. The men also must work several hours each day around the prison - earning their keep. They receive support services and are encouraged to re-unite with their families.
As I walked through the facilities and looked in each of those men's faces, I found myself wondering about them. What did they do to get in there? Did they feel remorse? Would they make it? But more than that, I found myself contemplating grace - again. These men are being offered another chance at life, and I want them to have that chance. I want to see them succeed and thrive and make a positive impact on the world around them. Perhaps that's not a chance they deserve to have, but that is grace.
Today I had the opportunity to tour a couple of properties operated by Partners in Housing Development Corporation (PIH). PIH is dedicated to creating supportive housing solutions for our homeless neighbors in Indianapolis. Basically that means that they pair social services, i.e. case management, with affordable housing units. Indy's Blueprint to End Homelessness calls for the creation of 1700 new affordable housing units in the city. PIH is making it happen, and it's incredible to see. They, too, are about second chances and third chances...and fiftieth chances.
I hope that I really believe in this kind of grace on a personal level. I do desperately desire it for the people our organizations serve, but do I extend that kind of forgiveness and fiftieth chance when it comes to my day to day interactions? to my personal relationships? I'm not sure I always do, and I don't understand why that inconsistency exists. Why is it harder for me to extend grace to a prisoner serving out a 20 year sentence than to someone who personally wrongs me? Is it because that prisoner's offense is impersonal to me? I think that maybe grace on a personal grace is the deepest kind of grace there is...because it requires the most of us. It is truly sacrificial. I want to love like that.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
An easy way to help
I am a googler. I'll admit it. I use Google ALL THE TIME - probably at least 5 times a day.
But what if every time I searched, I earned money for a great cause?
Well, now I can ---- correction, now WE can.
By searching through Yahoo!'s www.GoodSearch.com, and designating Horizon House, every time we search, we earn money to help end homelessness. It's not a lot, but the more searches we make, the more money we earn. Some non-profits have earned several thousand dollars this way. I encourage you today to make the switch to GoodSearch. It's a little change that could make a big difference.
You can even download a GoodSearch toolbar for your browser!
But what if every time I searched, I earned money for a great cause?
Well, now I can ---- correction, now WE can.
By searching through Yahoo!'s www.GoodSearch.com, and designating Horizon House, every time we search, we earn money to help end homelessness. It's not a lot, but the more searches we make, the more money we earn. Some non-profits have earned several thousand dollars this way. I encourage you today to make the switch to GoodSearch. It's a little change that could make a big difference.
You can even download a GoodSearch toolbar for your browser!
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Heartbroken
I think that if I were an actual staff member at my shelter, my heart would be broken every day. It's one thing to get excited about hospitality, dignity, respect, and hope. It's another to fight for it daily, wholly. It is my job to talk about the successful journeys, and to interact with community members and persuade them to fight for the cause. Those stories give me hope, provide me with the understanding that there are solutions, and it is worth the fight. But today my heart breaks for a family split up. For the poor who can't figure out how to dig themselves out of their financial holes. For those who fight like there's no tomorrow and still can't find the hope they seek. Today I mourn those who live in the terrifying condition we call homelessness...because they are my neighbors.
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
My Official Announcement
I have decided. This fall I will become a master's student at Indiana University - Bloomington.
The degree is called Rhetoric and Public Communication.
And this is my 140th blog posting. That's amazing.
The degree is called Rhetoric and Public Communication.
And this is my 140th blog posting. That's amazing.
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Conference, Conference, Conference.
Last week was a busy one for me. I was only in the office one day.
Monday & Tuesday I sat through the Governor's Conference on Volunteerism - not the most interesting sessions I've ever sat through, but a few had some value. There was one amazing keynote speaker, one of the heads of USAID, who discussed the power of faith-based organizations to get things done abroad. She spoke of how those orgs are more able to gain the trust of the people than government, making it easier for them to create real changes in the country. I love that.
Thursday through Sunday I spent my time at the Hands On Network conference in New Orleans, an intriguing mesh of discussion, lecture, service, and tourism. The breakout sessions at this conference were far more relevant and engaging. There were some important folks there, most of whose names I've already forgotten, and even a few celebrities. A few cast members from daytime TV's Guiding Light showed up, as well as one of the women that hosts a show about flipping houses. In each session at this conference, I found myself passing notes with my fellow VISTAs about what real civic engagement means, what role the government should play, where faith-based organizations belong, etc. It was intellectually stimulating and completely inspiring. Now that I've shaped this life of service for myself, I cannot imagine living any other way.
In addition to all of these great sessions, I was able to go on a tour of the remaining Katrina destruction. While initially this may sound a little exploitative, I assure you it was not. No one paid any money for the tour, and its primary purpose was to show us how much still remains to be done in the reconstruction efforts. I hadn't realized. Katrina and its victims have largely disappeared from the American consciousness, but they still ache with the pains of her destruction. They still need folks to tear down, let alone to build the city up again. This was not as apparent in my December trip to New Orleans; the French Quarter, the city's tourist district, has been entirely restored already.
There was definitely some time for St. Patrick's Day fun, good food, and exploration. I didn't duplicate any of my experiences from the New Year's adventure, and I found even more appreciation for the city and its people.
I have just a few days left in town before I head out again, this time to Madison, WI to check out the university. They made me a really spectacular offer, and they're paying for the flight, so I figure it's worth a look. Tonight, for the rest of the evening, I plan to read some of the faculty's published work to see what they've been up to. So, to all of you - Good Night, and Good Luck.
Monday & Tuesday I sat through the Governor's Conference on Volunteerism - not the most interesting sessions I've ever sat through, but a few had some value. There was one amazing keynote speaker, one of the heads of USAID, who discussed the power of faith-based organizations to get things done abroad. She spoke of how those orgs are more able to gain the trust of the people than government, making it easier for them to create real changes in the country. I love that.
Thursday through Sunday I spent my time at the Hands On Network conference in New Orleans, an intriguing mesh of discussion, lecture, service, and tourism. The breakout sessions at this conference were far more relevant and engaging. There were some important folks there, most of whose names I've already forgotten, and even a few celebrities. A few cast members from daytime TV's Guiding Light showed up, as well as one of the women that hosts a show about flipping houses. In each session at this conference, I found myself passing notes with my fellow VISTAs about what real civic engagement means, what role the government should play, where faith-based organizations belong, etc. It was intellectually stimulating and completely inspiring. Now that I've shaped this life of service for myself, I cannot imagine living any other way.
In addition to all of these great sessions, I was able to go on a tour of the remaining Katrina destruction. While initially this may sound a little exploitative, I assure you it was not. No one paid any money for the tour, and its primary purpose was to show us how much still remains to be done in the reconstruction efforts. I hadn't realized. Katrina and its victims have largely disappeared from the American consciousness, but they still ache with the pains of her destruction. They still need folks to tear down, let alone to build the city up again. This was not as apparent in my December trip to New Orleans; the French Quarter, the city's tourist district, has been entirely restored already.
There was definitely some time for St. Patrick's Day fun, good food, and exploration. I didn't duplicate any of my experiences from the New Year's adventure, and I found even more appreciation for the city and its people.
I have just a few days left in town before I head out again, this time to Madison, WI to check out the university. They made me a really spectacular offer, and they're paying for the flight, so I figure it's worth a look. Tonight, for the rest of the evening, I plan to read some of the faculty's published work to see what they've been up to. So, to all of you - Good Night, and Good Luck.
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Decisions
The most pressing issue in my life right now is the graduate school decision. It's down to Wisconsin vs. Indiana. Both great schools, both with great offers. A big choice.
I'll be flying out to Wisconsin in a couple of weeks to check out the campus and meet their faculty & students. I don't have to make a decision until April 15, but that seems all too soon.
And in other news, the next week of my life will be occupied by volunteerism conferences. Early in the week I'll be at the Governor's Conference here in Indy. At the end of the week, I'm headed to New Orleans for the Hands On conference. And I'll be down there for St. Patty's Day. Apparently I only go to New Orleans for the holidays. :)
I'll be flying out to Wisconsin in a couple of weeks to check out the campus and meet their faculty & students. I don't have to make a decision until April 15, but that seems all too soon.
And in other news, the next week of my life will be occupied by volunteerism conferences. Early in the week I'll be at the Governor's Conference here in Indy. At the end of the week, I'm headed to New Orleans for the Hands On conference. And I'll be down there for St. Patty's Day. Apparently I only go to New Orleans for the holidays. :)
Saturday, February 24, 2007
Homeward Bound
Growing up, I hated fundraisers. I couldn't stand to ask people for money time and time again.
But now, it's easier for me. I believe so firmly in my organization - in what it does, and how it does it - that it's natural for me to ask others to support us.
Right now I'm fundraising for the Homeward Bound Walk, a 5k walk that will take place in April to support local homeless and affordable housing service providers.
I invite you to be a part of this with me. I ask you to use some of your dollars to help us end homelessness in Indianapolis.
Click here to donate on my personal page.
Thank you for caring, too.
But now, it's easier for me. I believe so firmly in my organization - in what it does, and how it does it - that it's natural for me to ask others to support us.
Right now I'm fundraising for the Homeward Bound Walk, a 5k walk that will take place in April to support local homeless and affordable housing service providers.
I invite you to be a part of this with me. I ask you to use some of your dollars to help us end homelessness in Indianapolis.
Click here to donate on my personal page.
Thank you for caring, too.
Clarification
To explain that post about "revolutionary love":
"Not better. Just here." is a reference to the book I've recently finished reading - This Beautiful Mess by Rick McKinley. In it, McKinley is telling these beautiful stories of people who make a conscious decision to live in this beautiful mess, the kingdom of God on earth. He writes of a couple of girls who decide they're going to "adopt" a building filled with mothers in rehab. Despite the womens' mistrust of them and their preppy college girl clothes, the girls showed up week after week to love. "We're not better. We're just here." the girls would say. That's the attitude I want to live my life in. I want to show up again and again and again to love. I want to be present. I want to serve with the attitude that I'm not better, but I'm here. I hope that in those moments, God will show up and do something powerful.
So that's just it.
I'm not better. I'm just here.
"Not better. Just here." is a reference to the book I've recently finished reading - This Beautiful Mess by Rick McKinley. In it, McKinley is telling these beautiful stories of people who make a conscious decision to live in this beautiful mess, the kingdom of God on earth. He writes of a couple of girls who decide they're going to "adopt" a building filled with mothers in rehab. Despite the womens' mistrust of them and their preppy college girl clothes, the girls showed up week after week to love. "We're not better. We're just here." the girls would say. That's the attitude I want to live my life in. I want to show up again and again and again to love. I want to be present. I want to serve with the attitude that I'm not better, but I'm here. I hope that in those moments, God will show up and do something powerful.
So that's just it.
I'm not better. I'm just here.
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Snow, snow everywhere
There's an incredible amount of snow on the ground here right now. They're saying we're in the middle of a blizzard. That seems like a kind of dramatic term to me, but I suppose when you get a foot of snow in one day, they've got to call it something!
My roommates and I were all sent home early from work today - I only got about an hour and a half in before hitting the road again - and it was pretty great. We did a lot of cleaning house and catching up on correspondence. If we end up snowed in again tomorrow, I vote we bake cookies!
This weekend, there was far less snow on the ground, but I went with a handful of friends to Crawfordsville, Indiana for a bit of sledding and hiking in the woods. The house we stayed in was wonderful - we sat around the fireplace reading Time and Cosmo while sipping on cocoa and cider. And my travel buddies are pretty great themselves.
Here are a few photos from that adventure:
My roommates and I were all sent home early from work today - I only got about an hour and a half in before hitting the road again - and it was pretty great. We did a lot of cleaning house and catching up on correspondence. If we end up snowed in again tomorrow, I vote we bake cookies!
This weekend, there was far less snow on the ground, but I went with a handful of friends to Crawfordsville, Indiana for a bit of sledding and hiking in the woods. The house we stayed in was wonderful - we sat around the fireplace reading Time and Cosmo while sipping on cocoa and cider. And my travel buddies are pretty great themselves.
Here are a few photos from that adventure:
Thursday, February 08, 2007
Revolutionary Love
"Not better. Just here."
How simple. How revolutionary.
What would happen if we applied that worldview to service?
How simple. How revolutionary.
What would happen if we applied that worldview to service?
Monday, February 05, 2007
Confusion
Perhaps I should clarify - I still haven't heard back from the two other graduate schools to whom I submitted applications. I cannot definitively say I'm headed for IU-Bloomington in the fall, only that I will be headed somewhere for school in the fall. I'll keep you posted on the other two results, and my final decision.
Sorry for the confusion my earlier post may have caused.
Sorry for the confusion my earlier post may have caused.
Sunday, February 04, 2007
I'm in.
"Every history gets reduced to a narrative," he said.
What an intriguing concept. Every history is somebody's story. "Our" history may be a conglomeration of the stories of many, but it's still colored by perceptions, backgrounds, moods.
The cool part of it all is that we get to write our own histories. My history, my narrative, my choices. What a privilege.
....
It turns out I'll be going to graduate school in the fall. This may not shock you, but it's comforting for me. I had a sincere lack of confidence in the application process. A professor from the Department of Communication and Culture at Indiana University called me yesterday to tell me I'm in. Then he emailed me, and there'll be a letter in the mail. I think that means they want me. :)
I found a quotation recently in a textbook that I think explains well why I'm so very interested in communication theory:
I love the study of communication because it is the study of people - how they interact, how they express themselves, what they do with that space between them. I'm passionate about understanding the narratives, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to learn more from the experts.
What an intriguing concept. Every history is somebody's story. "Our" history may be a conglomeration of the stories of many, but it's still colored by perceptions, backgrounds, moods.
The cool part of it all is that we get to write our own histories. My history, my narrative, my choices. What a privilege.
....
It turns out I'll be going to graduate school in the fall. This may not shock you, but it's comforting for me. I had a sincere lack of confidence in the application process. A professor from the Department of Communication and Culture at Indiana University called me yesterday to tell me I'm in. Then he emailed me, and there'll be a letter in the mail. I think that means they want me. :)
I found a quotation recently in a textbook that I think explains well why I'm so very interested in communication theory:
"Communication (human communication, at least) is something people do. It has no life of its own. There is no magic about it except what people in the communication relationship put into it. There is no meaning in a message except what the people put into it. When one studies communication, therefore, one studies people – relating to each other and to their groups, organizations, and societies, influencing each other, being influenced, informing and being informed, teaching and being taught, entertaining and being entertained – by means of certain signs which exist separately from either of them. To understand the human communication process one must understand how people relate to each other."
- Wilbur Schramm in The Process and Effects of Mass Communication
I love the study of communication because it is the study of people - how they interact, how they express themselves, what they do with that space between them. I'm passionate about understanding the narratives, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to learn more from the experts.
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
New Hero
I've never been one to have heroes. As a kid, when people asked, I'd say Abraham Lincoln. But as an adult, when posed the question, I never had anything to say. That's changed since I've been at this shelter.
There's a song I've been listening to lately with the incredible words (Thanks, Bobs) :
"Take this sinking boat and point it home
We've still got time
Raise your hopeful voice you have a choice
You've made it now"
Hopeful voice. How profound.
My new hero is a woman who went through an awful lot before she found that hopeful voice. She was homeless for a decade because of a terrible childhood. But some incredible people reached out to her and loved her deeply. She cried out, asking God to point that sinking boat home. And He did.
But the beauty of the story is that she does the same thing for our homeless neighbors now. She helps them find that hopeful voice by giving, and giving, and giving. She leads a women's support group, she's getting a degree in counseling, she's become a minister, and she's put her family back together after so many trials. She's my hero not just because she's a survivor, but because she is such an amazing picture of grace.
She noticed that too. And in response, she shows that grace to others. She loves extravagantly.
There's a song I've been listening to lately with the incredible words (Thanks, Bobs) :
"Take this sinking boat and point it home
We've still got time
Raise your hopeful voice you have a choice
You've made it now"
Hopeful voice. How profound.
My new hero is a woman who went through an awful lot before she found that hopeful voice. She was homeless for a decade because of a terrible childhood. But some incredible people reached out to her and loved her deeply. She cried out, asking God to point that sinking boat home. And He did.
But the beauty of the story is that she does the same thing for our homeless neighbors now. She helps them find that hopeful voice by giving, and giving, and giving. She leads a women's support group, she's getting a degree in counseling, she's become a minister, and she's put her family back together after so many trials. She's my hero not just because she's a survivor, but because she is such an amazing picture of grace.
She noticed that too. And in response, she shows that grace to others. She loves extravagantly.
Saturday, January 27, 2007
Pursuit of Cash
Last night I had the opportunity to hear Chris Gardner, the man on whom "The Pursuit of Happyness" is based, speak at a university in Indianapolis. After seeing the film, I expected great things from this man.
I was terribly disappointed.
Mr. Gardner did an amazing thing. He acheived the American Dream by going from homelessness to great wealth. But he wasted a great opportunity last night. Instead of pushing the crowd to do something about the problem of homelessness in our nation, he used his charisma to spread the gospel of wealth and elevate himself. His speech was full of name-dropping and lists of his personal accomplishments. Throughout the whole thing, it was "me, me, me."
But the crowd loved him.
He did an amazing job of identifying with his mostly African American audience. Somehow he even managed to throw in enough religious rhetoric to get some Amens. But it was never about God. It was never even about people. It was about his journey to success - one he defined entirely by material wealth. "It's not a black thing, it's not a white thing, it's a green thing," he said. And I cringed.
I understand that money had to be his path off the streets and into a home. I do not begrudge him that. But money has become more than a means to an end for this man - it, along with fame, appears to have become EVERYTHING.
I wonder how many of the people in that audience were touched in a way to be compelled to act. My guess is few, if any. And how many of those few will make that compulsion into a lifestyle? How many will see that this is not about the American Dream, but about the human condition?
Not everyone can or will pull themselves up by those invisible bootstraps. The real changes in the makeup of our society happen when compassion flows with consistency. Chris Gardner had a great platform upon which to inspire others to act, to create that commitment to compassion - but he wasted it.
He made it about money. He made it about fame. He made it about himself.
I was terribly disappointed.
Mr. Gardner did an amazing thing. He acheived the American Dream by going from homelessness to great wealth. But he wasted a great opportunity last night. Instead of pushing the crowd to do something about the problem of homelessness in our nation, he used his charisma to spread the gospel of wealth and elevate himself. His speech was full of name-dropping and lists of his personal accomplishments. Throughout the whole thing, it was "me, me, me."
But the crowd loved him.
He did an amazing job of identifying with his mostly African American audience. Somehow he even managed to throw in enough religious rhetoric to get some Amens. But it was never about God. It was never even about people. It was about his journey to success - one he defined entirely by material wealth. "It's not a black thing, it's not a white thing, it's a green thing," he said. And I cringed.
I understand that money had to be his path off the streets and into a home. I do not begrudge him that. But money has become more than a means to an end for this man - it, along with fame, appears to have become EVERYTHING.
I wonder how many of the people in that audience were touched in a way to be compelled to act. My guess is few, if any. And how many of those few will make that compulsion into a lifestyle? How many will see that this is not about the American Dream, but about the human condition?
Not everyone can or will pull themselves up by those invisible bootstraps. The real changes in the makeup of our society happen when compassion flows with consistency. Chris Gardner had a great platform upon which to inspire others to act, to create that commitment to compassion - but he wasted it.
He made it about money. He made it about fame. He made it about himself.
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
A dream fulfilled
Tonight I went to the Pacers v. Bulls game. It was soooo great - the fulfillment of a childhood dream. Really, the dream involved the Bulls more than the Pacers, but I thought it appropriate to cheer for the home team. :)
And beforehand, the wonderful friend that bought me the Pacers ticket provided us with my favorite pizza from my favorite local pizza joint AND free flowing Diet Coke. Truly magnificent.
In other news, the Colts are going to the Super Bowl, and I've never seen a city so wrapped up in a sports team. EVERYTHING is blue and white. All of our commercials now contain Peyton Manning, the team's quarterback. Buildings have Go Colts banners and horse shoes in their windows. Indianapolis has lost its mind. But it's really entertaining, and I have a lot of respect for the Colts. They're so very supportive in the fight to end homelessness around here. So, I'll join the ranks of the fans and shout loudly for them in February - Go COLTS!
And beforehand, the wonderful friend that bought me the Pacers ticket provided us with my favorite pizza from my favorite local pizza joint AND free flowing Diet Coke. Truly magnificent.
In other news, the Colts are going to the Super Bowl, and I've never seen a city so wrapped up in a sports team. EVERYTHING is blue and white. All of our commercials now contain Peyton Manning, the team's quarterback. Buildings have Go Colts banners and horse shoes in their windows. Indianapolis has lost its mind. But it's really entertaining, and I have a lot of respect for the Colts. They're so very supportive in the fight to end homelessness around here. So, I'll join the ranks of the fans and shout loudly for them in February - Go COLTS!
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Quick and Classic
Gas prices fell below $2 a gallon here on Friday. Know what that means? ROADTRIP!
Unfortunately, I had to work all day Saturday, and we already had dinner plans for that night, so it had to be a quick one. That, for us, meant Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Ann Arbor is beautiful, even in the cold and rain. It's such a classic college town, where coffee shops, great food, and art abound. It's the kind of place that keeps a person young forever.
Having only a day in the town, most of what we did was wander around on foot, but that is itself a thing of beauty. I love seeing a city that way. It's how you feel its people.
I don't have any great stories to tell about the weekend. It wasn't a touristy kind of trip. It was a quality time with friends kind of trip. And it was lovely.
Unfortunately, I had to work all day Saturday, and we already had dinner plans for that night, so it had to be a quick one. That, for us, meant Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Ann Arbor is beautiful, even in the cold and rain. It's such a classic college town, where coffee shops, great food, and art abound. It's the kind of place that keeps a person young forever.
Having only a day in the town, most of what we did was wander around on foot, but that is itself a thing of beauty. I love seeing a city that way. It's how you feel its people.
I don't have any great stories to tell about the weekend. It wasn't a touristy kind of trip. It was a quality time with friends kind of trip. And it was lovely.
Friday, January 12, 2007
A Little Unsettled
I'm working on a really big project at work, and I'm almost entirely in charge of it. It could be amazing and wonderful for the organization. In fact, I hope/think it will be. But...
Somewhere along the way I've lost my confidence that I can execute something big like this and have it reflect positively on me. It's my job to make sure I portray the organization in the most positive light, but I'm currently TERRIFIED that something will go wrong and I'll have a PR disaster on my hands. And it will be all my fault.
When did I become that girl who's more comfortable sitting still than rocking the boat? I'm not even really rocking it. I'm paddling forward and horrified that I might capsize. That's no way to live, no way to work.
Vague, I know. Sorry.
Somewhere along the way I've lost my confidence that I can execute something big like this and have it reflect positively on me. It's my job to make sure I portray the organization in the most positive light, but I'm currently TERRIFIED that something will go wrong and I'll have a PR disaster on my hands. And it will be all my fault.
When did I become that girl who's more comfortable sitting still than rocking the boat? I'm not even really rocking it. I'm paddling forward and horrified that I might capsize. That's no way to live, no way to work.
Vague, I know. Sorry.
Friday, January 05, 2007
Appeasement
I've received several emails from my readers, all of them upset that you haven't heard from me in awhile. My apologies. I get so wrapped up in living my life sometimes that I forget to sit down and tell you about it.
This past couple of weeks I've been trotting all around the country - to Springfield, New Orleans, Conway, etc. It's been a kind of frenetic pace, but I've thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it. I'm in the midst of a much needed break.
I will try, when I return to Indianapolis, to give you a slightly more detailed version of my stories, my journies, but in the meantime I thought you might enjoy a couple of photos.
Jared and I with the pups on Christmas Day.
Some of my favorite girls at Cafe Maspero in New Orleans' French Quarter.
Sonic - a major treat. We don't have them in Indy.
And finally, some goofing off at Geoff's.
This past couple of weeks I've been trotting all around the country - to Springfield, New Orleans, Conway, etc. It's been a kind of frenetic pace, but I've thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it. I'm in the midst of a much needed break.
I will try, when I return to Indianapolis, to give you a slightly more detailed version of my stories, my journies, but in the meantime I thought you might enjoy a couple of photos.
Jared and I with the pups on Christmas Day.
Some of my favorite girls at Cafe Maspero in New Orleans' French Quarter.
Sonic - a major treat. We don't have them in Indy.
And finally, some goofing off at Geoff's.
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