I like your sweater.

Have you ever been so overwhelmed by all aspects of life that you can't even remember what you were thinking about five minutes previous? My mind can only take so many profound thoughts in one day. When it reaches its maximum the leftovers are forgotten. Apparently. At least, I think it does? My mind feels so full that I don't even have the capacity to contemplate sleep. That's one indication of overload - I generally love sleep. =)

I thought I might share with you some of my recent contemplations. May I?

As of late I have been doing clinicals at a rehab center. It has been an amazing experience. Contrary to what the majority of the population may think, helping geriatrics go to the bathroom and wipe their backsides is not a terrible experience. I have been humbled by my tasks and at the same time empowered at the prospect of how much I can contribute. When I see the constant pain they endure, I find great hope in the fact that I can relieve it in small ways - whether it's complimenting them on their sweater or new hair style, or just listening to them talk. However, my experiences have also been enlightening. I see first hand that we are all mortal. Life does not always have happy endings no matter what you wish. You never know for certain how much time is left and therefore you must live life to the fullest each day as if it were your last.

During this time period I have also been reminded of the frailty of human relationships. It's true that you can't judge a book by its cover. But you can't judge it by its content either. Both can be deceptive or faulty in some way. Both are easily plaigarized. Therefore you must get to know the author rather than the book they present to you. I have realized that true friends are rare indeed. They're the ones I can pour my heart to - the ones who have that connection at a deeper level - a spiritual level. But I have also learned that life includes periods of solitude. Sometimes silence is good. Maybe it's not always a bad thing that there isn't anyone to talk to. (forgive my double negative) Then I can put a lot more time into my two superior relationships: God, and my piano, Genivieve. Both need to be strengthened. God and I can always grow closer. But Genivieve - she takes a little more work. Having a meaningful conversation through black and white ivory (or acrylic) is harder than you might think. We're making progress though. We understand each other very well lately. Very well indeed...