The cold has begun to settle in here in East Tennessee...we didn't have much of spectacular Autumn this year. The leaves changed quickly and are falling quickly now. I sat outside for around four hours today...even through the sleet/flurries of the day.
It's cold, but it's beautiful. The air is fresh and crisp and the wind makes my eyes smart in a way that makes me feel awake. Joy and beauty are in every season. And with each season come memories...when it gets cold, I miss certain people more. I miss dear ones from Chicago, remembering the survival of those many months of harsh weather, but warm moments that allowed us to share our hearts with each other and hot chocolate and warm cookies and such. I turned on Little Women today to ring in the cold weather.
On a more general note, I am student teaching and have about 5 weeks left...6 weeks until graduation. I will be officially "hooded" December 17...can it be? I need a job. Praying and hoping for the best.
The other day I was reminded of what being here is all about--not just in this place, but wherever I am. I have been so busy with a huge paper, student teaching, church, etc, that I haven't been paying attention to those around me very well. The other day I was reminded of how important it is to practice the act of presence through two students who needed someone to listen and to care enough to look at them with an ounce of compassion. Don't we all need that sometimes? People, no matter their culture, look for listening ears, kind eyes, and genuine hearts. I hope I can be that for someone every day in some tiny way.
