Role Models.

Recently I bought an Essence magazine. Now if you know me, you know that I don't buy magazines. But this one caught my eye more than the others. There is a letter(in this month's edition) from Michelle Obama to the readers. Mrs. Obama, is my first role model outside of women I actually know. Next month i'll be honored with an award for my work in the field of girls education. The theme, "Lifting as we climb," really hasn't settled in until lately. Reading both the letter and receiving this award has left me in a contemplative state about role models that I have had throughout my life. Starting with my mom and going down the list to women who have been 'lifting me as I climb', all have made an impact on my life. My attitude and outlook on life stems from the support these women have given me, imparting on me the knowledge and confidence to conquer whatever lies in my way. These women have shown me how to work hard for what you want and to not stop until you get it. I have a hard time with the idea of getting an award for work that i'm passionate about, it is even harder knowing that there are plenty of women out there that may be more deserving of this award. I know with the acceptance of this award, I am assuming the responsibility of 'lifting others as they climb' . I can't force someone else to be a role model. I can't force someone to want to set a good example for those coming behind them, but I can lead by example. Given what I have been given in role models(there are many), it is because of them that I know I can wake up everyday and tell myself something that I love about myself. I'm strong and confident(perhaps overly confident). I no longer feel the need to be validated by others, I tell myself I am beautiful everday because I can't wait for someone else to tell me(that may leave me waiting). I take advantage of all opportunities presented and live life to the fullest. I set goals and meet them. I love openly. I listen before I speak. I'm observant and honest. Calm and responsible. Patient and kind. I am all of the above because of my role models and if I can instill these values, this confidence, and this love for self, in someone else, then I know have passed on what I have been given.

Blah blah blah blah

I've been in DC about a month now. No, I don't have a job yet but i'm slowly but surely getting adjusted to life here. It's interesting. People are friendlier, the happy hours are a nice way to cap off or start an evening, and i'm liking my classes so far. A lot of things have ran across my mind and i'm not sure where exactly to go with it. I'm liking the fact that i'm meeting new people, mostly folks on my wave length, some or many who are not(but that's ok). Although the competitive nature of life here is really not my speed, I like the options in my field available here.

School has been interesting....I definetly feel like a grad student when I see the undergrad scurry about, some oblivious to the larger world around them, some who i'm sure have a lot more on their shoulders and a lot more on their mind than the eyes can see. Seeing as I don't live anywhere near campus, I don't feel like a part of the student body. Which can be seen as a good or bad thing I guess. My professors are cool, one doesn't believe in the publishing industry so he printed out all of our readings. The other more green teacher has made us purchase our books and I believe I have printed off atleast 250 pages of reading(I guess its ok to make others kills trees when its not hanging over your head...or maybe I should just upload the electronic copy but I can't really comprehend without something I can phyiscally touch...i'm a hands on learner). Both professors are passionate about what they do and have information that will be applicable to my future career.

Jobs...i'm patiently waiting for something to come along. I have been meeting with the career center to better my resume and I have sent out 50+ resumes so far, I've gotten a few interviews and nothing has panned out so far but who knows what this week will hold.

I'll be in Chicago the weekend of the 16th for an honoree banquet for the award I am receiving(check out previous post for info.).

My twin brother is engaged!!!! I'm so excited for him and his new fiance. I love them both and glad that they will me making that larger committment to spend their lives together. She will be a great addition to the family. :)

I have the urge to learn french and arabic and hopefully once things are settled I can explore them a bit further.

I want to get back to my community service work and hoping that things can settle soon so that I can find a time to do so.

I found the perfect place to live, buts it not available until Nov.1st. Still I want it....



Sorry if this bored you...my mind is pretty free of thoughts at this moment but stay posted.