My heart has been heavy lately. The world of admissions in higher education can be emotionally draining because of the people. People. Let's talk about this today. There are times I question about our humanity - the growing violence, lack of respectfulness or patience, rudeness, diminishing common sense, entitlement... Obviously violence is something I don't deal with, but the explosions at the Boston Marathon just really sickened me to its core. Why is there so much hatred in this world? Perhaps the Boston Marathon incident merely fueled my ever growing disappointment with human beings.
First, let's get the facts straight. I truly appreciate my job. Of course it pays the bills, but I get to work in higher education which is something I find very fulfilling. There are wonderful people in my office, including a supportive boss whom I am so appreciative of. Work relationships have developed into friendships which have eased the transition of my new life in Houston. I come back home to an unconditionally excited dog and a husband who anchors my life.
But, admissions, or any customer-service based industries, really bring out all sorts of ugliness of people. The phone harassment (calling me every 15 seconds but leaving no voice message because he/she demands an answer right away), the sense of entitlement that one must get into graduate school despite his/her aptitude below admissions requirements, the people who begins to yell before I could even try to help, and the list just goes on forever. Maybe I'm a negative person and can only acknowledge the badness of people. Or could I be unsympathetic? I am not sure how much more understanding I need to be of other people before I determine they cross the line. My job does not require a rocket scientist, but it requires a perpetual patience and respectfulness no matter what in return I get. These people I assist get master's degrees and they move on to bigger things. No wonder this world is full of hatred and disrespectful people, so called the educated people.
Ok, I get it. I got a little too harsh now. However, I have become this negative about people so I took this Friday off. I needed to cleanse my thoughts and find peace within me. Also, I need to regain confidence in our humanity. The heroism show in Boston Marathon gave me some hope that there are still good people out there.
My lunch break was a little unusual today. Instead of barricading myself in my office, I went out for a quick grocery shopping at Kroger's. Who knew that would be therapeutic! I got what I needed for our next few meals and enjoyed the rest of the break outside. It was cloudy; we are supposed to have rain and thunderstorm tonight. I saw the wildflowers by the building - nothing particularly gorgeous looking, just innocent and yet strong. I was afraid that the rain will ruin all the flowers tomorrow, so I took a few snaps. I felt better, more peaceful, and refreshed. And I am definitely ready for a quick break away from work this Friday.
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