She was very quiet and reserved when she first came to us. She was quite petite and her face looked tiny beneath a thick fringe of bangs. She was uncertain of herself, but wanted so much to do well. She would patiently wait her turn for help and was grateful for the assistance we could give her. She always seemed to be careful about not monopolizing too much of our time, concerned that others have the opportunity to get help from us as well. Read more.

For several years I have marched as part of fall and spring convocations at the college where I teach. As commencements go, I imagine ours is much the same as most across North America. The academic officers and president of the college, along with board members or regents enter first, complete in their accoutrements. The faculty follows, position in line dictated by seniority and level of degree, again sporting the colors of their discipline. Not understanding the protocol early on, I made the mistake of being at the wrong end of the line, the senior end, but was quickly redirected to the appropriate position where I am quite comfortable. However, regardless of the pomp and regalia, the past two years have become something of a sobering humorous reminder of persistence and success. Read more.