Sunday, August 17, 2014

Change is in the air

Locals told me to get ready; I was expecting a scorching hot August. It has been relatively mild, save a few days, a pleasant change from the sticky summers of Louisville. We may yet have our own bout with humidity, but as of yet it has been beautiful. It’s August! It's New York. Wow. We've been here for simply ages now. The last two mornings have been a bit chilly even. You know what’s just around the corner….

Some changes are in the works here. At the end of the month, I’m transferring to a new Bux. I'll be honest, I had not intended on being at the Bux for another year, but it is what it is, I guess. It has allowed me more time to write and taught me a lot about contentment and patience, so I'm grateful. After last winter's one mile walking-commute through the snow, I've decided to shorten my commute just in case (I'm there forever). I'll also feel as if I'm in New York, whereas my current location doesn't feel as such. (Sometimes comically/frighteningly so...bring on the NASCAR bumper stickers) An added bonus to my transfer is that my new store will be in the area of the PFLAG meetings I mentioned a few months ago. It will be easier to start to feel a part of the community.

I have recently started teaching ESL (as a volunteer) for an African refugee organization in Harlem. It is both challenging and rewarding. I've been introduced to such a beautiful group of volunteers and students. It challenges me personally, since I’m sometimes prone to second-guess my own abilities to teach ESL effectively. The practice is good for me and I sincerely hope I can help these beautiful souls adjust to their new life here. The range is great. I have, so far, worked with women who are working on their citizenship test, but also those who are just learning to the alphabet. I am reminded, once again, how much I often take for granted, and I am encouraged by their determination and their dreams.

I continue to write and we continue to love our new life here. My wonderful wifey has jumped into life here with both feet and is active with school organizations, work, cycling, and whatever else she finds to do! The Academic Dean at JCTC said it best, she certainly is a “force to be reckoned with!” Her compassionate heart flourishes here, and I am more grateful every day for this force of nature in my life. Those who know her are better for it, for she pulls out a greatness from within, the likes of which you never knew existed. 

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