So Very Lucky!

Yesterday evening, as I taught my final class at the OLSC, my students surprised me with flowers and candy. I was so incredibly touched and moved by the gesture. As I commuted home that evening, I reflected on just how incredibly lucky I have been in my places of employment.

Fresh out of undergrad, I applied for my first 'real' job at the Mental Health Association- the Village. Upon leaving, I received such a torrent of well-wishes from the entire organization. A huge party that was catered to my pescatarian diet. They even wrote a song to the tune of 'Bend it Like Beckham' (the movie had just been released) ! It was a very emotional time in my life and I will never forget the outpouring of support as I left for Michigan.

During Grad School, I received an EU externship in Athens. The friendships I made there have lasted me until this day. Dr. Merianou, Dr. Pavi, Aphrodite, Eleftheria, Matthew, Nikos still keep in contact with me. On my final evening in Athens, Eleftheria and I went out to dinner. We sat on an open-terrace overlooking the Parthenon and ate and drank wine late into the hours. It was unforgettable!

At THR, I had a one year fellowship upon finishing Grad School. Once again, the executives and my amazing colleagues threw an amazing farewell spread. Engraved mikasa crystal, a Fort Worth monopoly game, dozens of cards... I couldn't believe how much they had done for me.

When I left Children's Medical Center, once again my employees and coworkers moved me with their farewell. And now at the OLSC, I have teachers and students reaching out to me in so many touching ways. I have only been a part of their lives a few months, and yet their actions don't reveal that short tenure.

I realize what amazing organizations I have been a part of. More importantly, it speaks volumes about the people who stay in touch throughout the years, and care so deeply.

I am truly, very- very lucky.