8.21.2004
Well, another week has gone by without anything earth shattering happening. I've been busy this week with work, as well as getting re-immersed into BSU stuff. It is always great to see freshmen in their introductory journey to college. The reactions are anywhere from timid to brash to cocky to terrified. One of the harder things to do is get all of us old fogies that know each other so well to reach out and talk to someone new. It seems so awkward when thinking about doing it, but quite often, such natural responses take over, particularly when the sense of relief that you detect from the other person emmanates, and you realise that you truly are making a difference in someone's life. It may be a shallow temporary difference, but one always hopes in the possibility that a great lifelong friendship could start with a few simply words.
The trick to talking to people (yet another thing that I've learned from Val, who is terrified of the concept. Twas fun seeing her stretch herself this week in these semi-social endeavors as well) is to ask them questions about themselves. Yes, if you find some ground where you relate, elaborate, but be sure to ask about three times as many questions about the other person for each item about yourself that you volenteer.
Another bonus point type situation is if you can remember their name the next time you see them. This does nothing less than let them know that they made some level of impression in your life as well. There is absolutely no feeling like being accepted for who you are, even 24 hours after a ten minute conversation.
And finally, just love the people. No matter who they are, what they smell like, when they last shaved, or bought new clothes, love them.
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On another note, just to relay another sign that I married into the right family. Val visited home yesterday, and somehow her mom got wind that I like the style of jeans where you can zip the legs off and make shorts. So when Val returned, she was in posession of five pairs of said style of jeans. Her family's love language is giving, and it's often hilarious as to how they show it. We also ended up with a kitchen table that her mom caught on clearance for $50. I honestly cannot believe them sometimes.
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School starts monday, so pray for me. I have a fairly light load, but I've found that in ChemE, there's no such thing.
# posted by Sir Omer : 8/21/2004 01:02:00 PM
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How is the BSU stuff going with the new rules? It's kind of strange how your perspective changes after 4 yrs. For us it seems like a looong time since you've lived at home and yet these 4 yrs have gone fast, too. Your final year at college and your 1st year of marriage, this will be a wonderful time in your life. I want you to know how my heart swells with pride as I read your post. Pride not only for your accomplishments, but more for who you are. Pride may not be the right word because I take no credit for it, maybe just love is the right word. I love you!
Glad you got a table! Love, MOM
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Glad you got a table! Love, MOM
# posted by 
: 8/21/2004 08:41:00 PM
: 8/21/2004 08:41:00 PMSubscribe to Post Comments [Atom]
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