Diversity

Well there, it has been ages since I last blogged on this blog. As I was walking home from my German course today, I had a thought to start up my blog again. For the longest time, I really felt like I had nothing to write about. I mean, yeah we are moving back to the states, but I never really felt like more than the facts could be talked about... but after my experiences in the last few days, I realize I have lots to talk about.

Every day it is my goal to ponder about something fascinating or interesting and then share my insight on the topic. Today is diversity.

I had something quite interesting happen to me yesterday in particular. It was my first day in my German-Intensiv class, and -as usual- we all had to go around the room introducing ourselves. The first person was from Poland and the next out of the Phillipeans. How interesting! Then, the next came as a swift and stern realization as she announced she was from Iraq. Then, it was my turn. How ironic that the two countries who are battling it out right now (worldwide known) ended up sitting right next to one another in that tiny, muggy classroom.
Now, here is the kicker! - She is trying to get the kind of job I have been dispising since I have been in Germany, and she has no idea how to do it.

So, in my way of extending my hand to her, not only as a person, but also in a way as a country or culture, is to help her find her way in this field. So, today I sat next to her again and she is really a sweet girl. She is a mother of 2 children and recently moved to Düsseldorf. I have been assisting her in class and something that I consider a great wall breaker, is that we are now speaking the informal 'you' in German. We are friends! I find this so ironic that this happened the day after the 10th year anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. God truly is helping us mend our wounds.

I am so proud to be an American, and I am so proud that I was raised to love one another, regardless of race, gender, or culture. I appreciate this beautiful woman from Iraq, and I hope this has helped her view improve a little better of America and what we truly stand for.

Oh- and to add a little spice to the pot, I learned today that one other girl in our class is from Afghanistan. Wow, I have some work to do!