Like a Parched Tree

 I was reflecting on some really pivotal moments from last semester- in how I was feeling, especially internally. It was rough. With full focus on the Library Science field with my classes and internship, I usually felt like I was sinking, or sometimes barely hanging onto a very thin string. 

There were of course some things that brought my spirits up and helped. I remember distinctly how I was feeling one day in the middle of September, and I was going to pick up my parents at the airport. I was excited to see them again but felt so internally (what's the word?), dead, off with myself, and like I hadn't used any ounce of my energy, gifts or personality in a span of time. 

As I was stopped at stop light before close by to the airport, I saw a homeless man on the side of the street sitting in a wheelchair holding a sign asking for help. I remember I had some cash on me, and so right before I was to pass him by, I handed him that dollar bill with everything in me. He took it, rather grabbed it with a sense of desperation and I could tell he was so thankful and surprised. And immediately he said, 'God bless you!' As I drove and made my left turn, I felt like crying because I felt like I literally helped someone that day and made an impact. 

Another time, at a book club with a few students at the library during my internship hours, I just enjoyed being with them and though there wasn't a lot to do, I really liked interacting with them. They started asking me questions, and then asked what my favorite book is. I had to think for a moment, and then knew- 'Left to Tell'. I tried to gently tell them what's it about for their 6 grade minds to comprehend. I told them (warned them rather), that its depressing (about a genocide in Rwanda), and even asked them, 'Do you know what genocide means?' And they kind of knew, but expressed to their curiosity that the way the author writes is so amazing and not so graphic or deeply triggering because its hopeful, and sheds light on her deep faith in God and forgiveness.

 They became more curious as they were finishing out their project and then I told them that it would be my last time with them. They became surprised and like an 'aww' expression overcame some of them. I didn't know what would be next...I still had a few more weeks, but I knew talking with and connecting, assisting students was my passion, and given those droplets meant everything to me, like a parched tree given water.