"...He prayeth well, who loveth well, Both man and bird and beast.

He prayeth best, who loveth best, All things both great and small;
for the dear God who loveth us, He made and loveth all..."

The Rime of the Anchient Mariner -Samuel Taylor Coleridge

Monday, October 4, 2010

An Old Epiphany

I run, I teach, I travel, and I make the Social Section of the local newspaper...yes, it's all true!

1) This Sunday I ran a 10K here in Queretaro (the State capital). It was an excellent event w/over 1000 participants (my guess). It was in honor of the continueing bicentenial celebration. I was so inspired by the runners; these weren't your average American event racers (eg avid cross country runners), rather they were regular people (the fit and not-so-fit) who were running and doing great. As a side note, this was the first time I wore shorts in public here in Mexico b/c women rarely wear shorts. Those who know me know that running has become one of my passions, and I'm so happy I've been able to keep it up (so far). I do a LOT of walking though, and I really enjoy it. BTW, 10K/6.2mi in 58 minutes...not bad for only running once a week.

2) Six weeks into the 12 week PC Training I had the opportunity to move out of my Spanish class and work at an NGO (non-gov org), where I can use my Spanish in a more practical setting. Last week I started teaching an Intro to English class at a local NGO. At first I was a little apprehensive, because I get stage-fright and what do I know about teaching?? Well, like all things in life, you do some reading, you ask knowledgeable people for advice and words of inspiration, and you let yourself be inspired by other people's confidence. So my first day was awesome! I spent three hours on the ABC's, and have been making impressive progress thereafter. My students are women who never finished high school, and are taking courses outside of school (like a GED). My introductory class will help them in their English I class as they progress through their coursework. Their positive attitude and enthusiasm inspire me so much!

3) I traveled to San Miguel de Allende this weekend. I was amazed at the architecture of this colonial city. Truly beautiful (pictures to follow). We visited the neighboring thermal hot springs. The open pool there lead into a circular cave connected by a tunnel. I went, I saw, I bathed.

4) The week before last my host family invited me to go with them to their granddaughter's Christening/Baptismal Fiesta. The grand daughter is four months old, and this little girl had a badass party, but it's too bad she'll never remember it! They was a cover band, we were continually served drinks, a three course meal, and dancing. One of the God-parents is a Mexican Soap Opera star. The local newspaper came and was doing interviews and taking pictures. Since I was sitting at the important table, I got my name and picture in the Social Section of the newspaper (in color)!

On a separate note, I was reflecting on an old epiphany I had about the concept of 'paradise.' Essentially we think of paradise as a place (in heaven or possibly earth), but my idea is that 'paradise is now.' Thinking of paradise as a time in my life gives me a great sense of appreciation for the events in my past, the necessary stages and pivotal people I've met on my life journey. The amazing way doors keep opening makes me think that life is more than just funny, it is beautiful.

A very personal Thank You to all my family and friends who keep me in their thoughts and prayers. You have no idea how much that means to me;)

Followers