It is 6PM and I am sitting on the floor in my pajamas, drinking coffee, listening to atmospheric music, and looking through a friend's vacation photo album.(I'm doing this because our dog is lonely and he won't stop barking until someone sits next to him on the floor. So I volunteered.)
Also, I've survived my second week of grad school.
At the beginning of this week, I wasn't doing very well. Most of my classes this semester are heavily focused on the electrophysiological aspects of the hearing and nervous systems, which is essentially engineering, and everybody knows that Vicki doesn't do engineering. So Vicki has had many doubts. Vicki has cried. Vicki has locked herself in her office and hidden. Vicki has locked herself in the bathroom and hidden. And cried.
It's been a bit rough.
However, this week, I have also been reminded of the power and strength found in the love and encouragement of other people. You see, I tend to be very emotionally independent (read: proud) and avoid discussing my fears and worries with other people. I try to seem strong and put-together - I hate showing weakness and I hate people knowing what's going on inside my head. This week, though, I admitted to some of my close friends that I was doubting myself and fearful of the future; and the uplifting words they sent my way gave me such a huge boost.
It's amazing how much encouragement you can get from simple words like:
You can do it.And most importantly:
I have a lot of faith in you.
You will be the kindest, most beautiful Ph.D. around!
Don't put so much pressure on yourself - you're doing fine.
I trust you.
You're not crazy.
You were born for this.
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
Regarding my lovely humans' encouragement, I really don't think anyone who encouraged me this week knew that their quickly jotted posts and casual comments were so helpful and important for me. It actually reminded me that my words can have the same effect on others - it only takes me a second to shoot off a text saying "Hey, just wanted to you to know you're awesome"; but it might be just the little boost someone needs today.
How have your family and friends encouraged you this week?
~ Vicki
What a great reminder! My mother (who lives in a different country) emailed me just the other day; emailing me scripture and letting me know she was praying for me. That was some good encouragement. Thanks for sharing
ReplyDeleteVickie, I love that you are growing in grace and courage. And I love that you are being loved so well by friends who remind you that you *can do this* and *all things are possible!*
ReplyDeleteYou are wonderful and I am so looking forward to the beautiful things you'll be sharing with us over this next year. <3 Also, I love your new header. Very clean and full of good space.
With lots of love to you!