“You're a Christian?" he asked me. "Are you an evangelical?" Although the dimly lit bar buzzed around us with late-night conversation, I was certain that no other discussion resembled ours. “I’m a Christian, but not that kind of Christian,” I replied quickly, hoping to claim my ground before any stereotypes did. He looked relieved, but … Continue reading I’m a Christian, but…
Category: transition
The Beginning and End of Harvard
Yesterday evening was a historic night for students at the School of Public Health. You wouldn't have ever guessed though, because if you peered into the Countway Library of Medicine at 4 pm you would have seen me dozing off in a chair. My professor didn't warn me that our reading assignment entitled "Health Systems" … Continue reading The Beginning and End of Harvard
The Moment I’ve Avoided
I haven't logged into this website since May. In fact, I haven't even looked at my blog since May. This delay is not accidental; I have pondered blog topics nearly every day, yet I've avoided writing at all costs. You would think that a tumultuous and uncertain season, like my past five months, would render … Continue reading The Moment I’ve Avoided
The Fear of Vanilla
"Why don't you go out with him?" My mom asked me over breakfast. I replied without hesitation. "He's way too vanilla." "What exactly does that mean?" She looked confused. I straightened, confident. "It means he's too boring, settled, and plain. You know, like vanilla." My mom tried to suppress a chuckle. "So it has absolutely … Continue reading The Fear of Vanilla
Warm Beer and Grimy Chacos
I'm seated inside the Toamasina port drinking a lukewarm beer that cost less than $1, staring at striped fish in transparent waters beneath my feet. The quiet moment invites contemplation; thoughts swarm my mind, tugging about, and I continue to stare. My gaze focuses on my sandals--Chacos, to be exact. They're great, aren't they? If you're from … Continue reading Warm Beer and Grimy Chacos
Have Yourself A Merry Little Pity Party
Yesterday marked my first Christmas away from home, in a warm climate, and aboard a ship. Rough life, huh? In all sincerity, I wasn't particularly excited to celebrate this year. Since I arrived on the Africa Mercy five weeks ago I have battled a severe case of "scrambled egg brain." This self-diagnosis reflects the ever-changing emotions and tired, mushy state … Continue reading Have Yourself A Merry Little Pity Party
Don’t Envy Me
I left Grand Rapids in a whirlwind and didn't get a chance to tell loved ones my thoughts. Or perhaps I just hadn't yet articulated my goodbyes. Either way, during my 13 hour flight across the Atlantic I finally had time to process--shortly after the middle-aged Ethiopian passenger convinced me (quite easily) to ask the … Continue reading Don’t Envy Me
From Michigan to Madagascar
“That sounds so cool. You should totally do it,” I affirmed, cupping my steamy, tea-filled mug. Kelsey, my dear friend and college comrade, smiled. “You should think about doing it with me.” I inhaled earl grey steam and pondered. “Mercy Ships? Nah. I'll do my own thing.” I withheld my genuine reason for declining. Truthfully, … Continue reading From Michigan to Madagascar
the writer who hates writing
"I hate writing." I can't tell you how many times I've made this claim throughout my life. Here's the truth: that's a lie. I actually love to write. I've kept a journal since I was 11 years old. In fact, I can't not have a journal. I have bought notebooks specifically for trips, vacations, and … Continue reading the writer who hates writing
six feet & growing 