first lesson

I am almost happily situated here in Latham, NY. I have seven other roommates, two of which keep themselves hidden from everyone's sight, except to come out and yell about who's not doing what followed shortly by a door slamming. Awesome! Real World: Humanitarians.

My first lesson in not to expect anything other than what is: Don't expect that everyone wants to benefit the lives of others, even if the job description says so. I am taking it in stride and not giving into the festering negative energy. I have my own goals and since I can't change the situation, I change my perception.

My donation-bff Eduardo is amazing. He's from Texas, Houston, actually and he is giving me self-confidence lessons while we are stuck driving around all day looking for donation sites. "Honey, you need to look that man in the eyes and flirt with him a 'lil", so I oblige and learn that it is okay to make direct eye contact for extended amounts of time and not feel like Cleopatra seducing Ceasar. I actually engage longer and enjoy the conversations more, who knew!!

Alas, I left all the cute boys back home out of arms reach, contributing to my sadness at the lack of attractive things to look at. But the landscapes and mountains and architecture here are beautiful so I am easily distracted from the loss. We are near the Hudson River, Adirondack Mtns., Beautiful Albany, and other interesting sites and scenes.

Found a meeting yesterday which was amazing. I always know when I am in need of one of those. I was asked to be discussion leader and so excitedly fumbled my way through that. I wasn't as afraid this time which is a big 'hooray' for fearlessness practice. I go to another, younger people's, meeting tonite. I am looking forward to making friends! I think I'm just typing for typing's sake at this point so ima run. Peace.