There has been a cloak of fog enveloping the Okanagan the last few days and it feels like some sort of winter insulation. I am back at school and slowly establishing a rhythm of study and life again. First let me say, it is wonderful to be back. It is wonderful to feel more like myself and happy again and to be reminded of how much I love this campus. Recently, I was talking to someone in my class about the sense of community here, about how much I love the opportunities for connection.
For example, we have a Collegia program here, which is basically a series of beautifully renovated living rooms on campus where commuter students (or any student) can study, nap, or socialize between classes. I think our school is one of the very few in Canada that has a free program like this. I think it is the responsibility of each student to take steps to get involved though...you can be offered all the opportunities in the world, but the important part is stepping up and saying yes.
My dear friend Makyla wrote me a letter about saying yes before I left for New Zealand. It signified one of the biggest lessons I learned while I was there - embracing where you are. Obviously you can't say yes to everything, there just isn't enough time in the day, but when you are open to the opportunities that present themselves life becomes so much more enriching.
This semester I am taking some wicked classes - Sociology of Families, Cultural Studies Practices, Critical Theory, and Postcolonial Literature and Culture. Each one has something valuable to offer and very often they overlap and complement each other. For my extra curriculars I am swimming, dancing, kickboxing (maybe), guiding tours, doing yoga, and maybe volunteering at the daycare.
I am feeling good these days. Happy about my decision to change majors and do Cultural Studies instead. Settled in my new home with two incredible roommates and a mountain view. Content with my activities. Rejuvenated by my friendships. Grateful for my family and the countless blessings around me. I am feeling like I am on track, at last.
With much love,
Emmy
PS: Here are some photos of my (new) home:
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