Happy Turkey Day Eve!

I grew up watching this show...and at 23 years old, I still lurve them.

Thank you, Mama & Papa Lima, for raising me to love others. Both of you always had room for people at our table.

"La Camisa Negra"

This Saturday I'm spending the whole day at the library, cranking out the final touches on the thesis proposal.

Currently listening to some classic Juanes to get my creative Latina juices flowing...

If you see me shimmy and booty shake, the same way over and over again...now you know why.

Here are some other thesis posts you may have missed:

"Say Hey (I Love you)"

Remembering Casa Chirilagua

"Bloodbuzz", "Pam" and "Winter"

"Icing on the Cake"

Remembering Casa Chirilagua

A couple of weeks ago, during homecoming weekend, I was blessed to meet with a Taylor alumni, Dawnielle. It was one of the best conversations of my life. It was what I needed to remind me why I’m at Taylor and why I’m writing my thesis. Dawnielle is one of the founding members of Case Chirilagua, which is a non-profit and Christian outreach that builds relationships with families in a Latino neighborhood in Virgina.

Here is some more information:

Who are they?

“Casa Chirilagua is a group of people who are 'learning together to love their neighbors as themselves' located in a Latino neighborhood in Alexandria, VA. We are a Christian faith-based not-for-profit outreach that seeks to develop relationships with families to see the Chirilagua neighborhood transformed by Christ.

We seek to see God’s Kingdom established in the Chirilagua community.

We are called to:

1) invest in long-term relationships

2) holistic ministry

3) local, community-based ministry

4) mentor neighborhood

5) affirm the vital role of the local church

6) develop church partnerships that unite the body of Christ in common outreach efforts" (Information taken from Casa Chirilagua website. For more information about the 6 key points, click here)

So what does “Chirilagua” mean?
"Chirilagua is a neighborhood in Alexandria, VA also known as Arlandria. However, if you talk to any of the mostly latino inhabitants, they proudly refer to their barrio as Chirilagua. When the Salvadoran civil war broke out in 1980, many had no choice but to leave their country and seek a new life. Many of those who came from Chirilagua, El Salvador settled in the Arlandria neighborhood of Alexandria, bringing a piece of their country with them and giving their new home a familiar name, 'Chirilagua'.” (Information take from the Casa Chirilagua website)

What is their story?
"Through divine providence, God arranged the circumstances for the lives of Emily, Julia, and Dawnielle to intersect through a conference and book talk near the end of 2006. They were drawn to one another through similar experiences in Latin America and a shared love for the Spanish language. They connected with people, books, magazines, websites, and other communities that helped to more clearly define the vision that God had begun to work in each of their hearts. There was a lot of uncertainty in the process and emotions ranged from excitement to fear. They grappled with moving, job changes, financial situations, approval of family and friends, etc., but they continued to meet regularly with like-minded people and filled their time with prayer, reflection, questioning, and talking with others who were further along the journey.

After eight months of meeting together, in July of 2007, the three young ladies took the plunge and moved into an apartment complex in the heart of Chirilagua, a latino immigrant community in Alexandria, VA. They were affirmed that God was working in the midst of their move, even down to the specific apartment strategically located in the center of activity and next to neighbors who would play a key role in their integration into the neighborhood community life. God’s sovereignty in that process, his leading and guidance each step of the way affirmed that they were exactly where they were supposed to be.

What started as 3 people moving into a neighborhood looking for ways to be the hands and feet of Christ on a daily basis, has now developed into an intentional community of 10 adults and 2 children, who choose to live in Chirilagua and engage the greater community through friendships, walks, meals, celebrations and life events.

Out of the growth of that intentional community and in response to identified needs in the neighborhood, Casa Chirilagua has developed into a not-for-profit ministry that reaches out to the community through Kids Club (an after school program), Mujeres de Virtud (a women’s ministry), and Chirilagua Connections (an access point to connect resources with needs).” (Story taken from Casa Chirilagua website)

To hear more of their stories, click here.

To learn more about their specific outreaches, click here.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Drinking coffee and talking about the Latino culture with Dawnielle encouraged and motivated me in so many ways. As I work on my thesis tonight, I will be remembering Dawnielle and her stories.

“Si se puede!” was one of the last things she said to me.

"Say Hey (I Love You)"

Readers/friends/future friends,

I'm currently in the thesis-proposal-must-get-'er-done-to-by-next-week mode. Therefore, my blog posts will be a little scarce.

But not to leave yall hanging, I will be posting songs that either motivate me to do thesis writing/work or that just have been stuck in my head all day.

Enjoy.

I lurve this music video because it's a fresh reminder to take time to celebrate life...even with a thesis deadline.

"Seems like everywhere I go
...the more I see, the less I know" = Lima's current motto.

Doesn't this video want to make you shimmy and shake your booty?

Make the Business Look Casual

Thank you, KT’s mom, for coming this weekend to hang out with The Single Ladies. We love having you around. You always make sure we have a “real” dinner. The extra bonus is that you have so much wisdom and motherly love for all of us.

Thank you, Fred, for having a birthday last week. I got to enjoy the presence of your Madre, but I also had the opportunity to stuff my face out with cake. I also took advantage of the holiday and filled your birthday card with pun jokes. That was my favorite part.

Thank you, Zumba, for being an overly cheesy way for me to get my groove on. When people ask, I like to explain you as “over exaggerated Latin dance moves”.

Thank you, Mama Lima, for calling me to make sure that I’m alive. Your love and persistence on my well-being reminds me that there’s a bigger world out there other than grad school.

Thank you, reading list, for your patience. Eventually I will get to cross some things off on you, but bear with me for I am writing a thesis. It’s totally understandable that you are feeling a bit jealous and neglected. I would feel the same if someone chooses to spend time with thesis books over me.

Thank you, chilly weather, for hanging out with us last week. You gave me a chance to complain about the cold and ponder how I ever grew up in New England.

Thank you, future job, for hanging in there. Eventually I will find you and it….Will. Be. awesome.

Thank you, BFF, for your honesty. Without it, I would still be rattling off my mouth and we both know we need to spare the world from that.

Thank you, R, for the late chilly nights talking about the Beauty of Life and its Creator. I’m currently wearing the gray scarf my mom knitted for me and sipping my hot apple cider.

Thank you, leg warmers, for coming back from the 80’s. You make the business look casual. People are secretly jealous of me.

Thank you, Taylor, for providing such a great education. At the current moment, you are overtaking my life, but 8 months from now I will be shimmying and shaking my booty to the thankful beats in my heart.

Thank you, left over Halloween candy, for being everywhere. My cavities are thanking you and the extra two inches on my hips are calling you “Daddy”.

Thank you, Eternal Father, for creating me in your image. Even though I experience an identity crisis every day, I know that my identity lies in you…which is humbling.

Learn: Communication

What am I learning today?

Communication is a great thing. It provides a way for us to engage with one another in deep and beautiful matters. It builds relationships and opens doors for new opportunities. Therefore, it is necessary for all humanity, and if you can’t communicate, you are robbed of something that is part of your identity.

Bad communication is destructive. When communication is not used correctly, people get hurt or all hell breaks loose. It could be that a person didn’t feel loved, that bill didn’t get paid, a joke was actually hurtful or you missed that meeting. In other words, bad communication is not fun.

That is why we must be careful of the way we communicate things. We must always evaluate the intention behind what we are communicating. Is it for our sake or the sake of others? Are we communicating this certain knowledge because we are called to do so or are we doing it just for our own entertainment?

Communication between relationships with those we love is crucial. It can make them or break them.

Are you communicating in a make it or break it manner?

That’s what I’m learning today.

"Bloodbuzz", "Pam" and "Winter"

Lima, how the heck do you keep sane your thesis process?

One word: Music.

Currently on my thesis "Chill-mode" playlist:



and...



and, of course...



Stayed tuned for my thesis "Party-Mode" playlist.



HAPPY SATURDAY!

Questions: Focused. Distracted. Motivated.

(Photograph taken by Bethany Buchwalter)

Some questions that I've been asking myself during this thesis writing process:

Focused.

Are you focused?

What helps you keep focused?

Are you being too focused?

Is it worth being focused?

What can you to do to increase your focus?

Can someone keep you accountable?

Distracted.

Are you distracted?

What distracts you?

Why does it distract you?

Is it worth distracting you?

What can you do to eliminate that distraction?

Can someone keep you accountable?

Motivated.

Are you motivated?

Why are you motivated?

What keeps you motivated?

Are you motivated for the right reasons?

What can you do to get motivated?

Can someone keep you accountable?

Are you too focused on something that it can eventually lead to a distraction, which can result in losing your motivation?

"Encouraging Others"

(Photograph taken by Bethany Buchwalter)

During this season of life called grad school, a person can easily get discouraged. Lately, I have been asking myself some hard questions about what encouragement means. Funny how this chapter, I had to read for homework, answered all my questions.

Thank you, Mahaney, for writing a book about humility. With your simple, yet insightful, style of writing, you have challenged me to look and practice humility in a different way.

What does it mean to encourage or edify?

"To effectively encourage or edify a person I must know something about that individual, which comes through studying that person, asking questions, and carefully listening. That’s what we’ll do if we’re trying to truly serve others with out words and not simply impress them. From what we learn about others, we’re able to answer this question: What do they need now? Is it counsel? Exhortation? Warning? Comfort? Forgiveness? All of the above? (pg. 115)

"Appropriate and timely words that edify will very often include words that exhort, words that help others guard against sin. And we’re to speak in this way every day. It’s to be continual, not occasional—because sin is active continually, not occasionally (pg. 116).”

What does grace have to do with it?

"We’re all in need of grace. There’s no one you know who doesn’t need more of it. And God has so composed His church that when we’re together in a larger corporate gathering or in a small group or even in a casual conversation, we can both receive grace and communicate grace through the exchange of edifying and appropriate words (pg. 118).”

The challenge:
"So we have to ask ourselves: Is this the effect of my speech upon others? Is this their common experience in our conversations? Do they experience grace in and through my words? (pg. 119)”

"…where there’s an absence of edifying words there’s also normally the presence of pride and of self-righteousness, because those who are proud are too preoccupied with themselves and think too highly of themselves to care about building others up or to be sensitive to their true needs. It’s the humble who are perceptive; they’re skilled in discerning the work of God in others because they care about others and want to serve others. (pg. 121)” (Quotes taken from Humility: True Greatness)


Dang, yo.

I'll admit it was hard asking myself the questions that Mahaney stated.

"What do they need now?" How does my speech effect others? "Do they experience grace in and through my words?"

How do you encourage and edify others?

Better Than Any Key Note Speaker

Thank you, International Service-Learning Conference, for being OFF THE CHAIN.

You brought people together who are committed to advancing the research for service-learning. When it all comes down to it, it’s all about the students and how to make this world a better place. With all the presentation, I felt like I was like a little child in a candy store.

PS-You are a major motivation for my thesis writing.

Thank you, Indy, for being such a fun and cute city.You were a breath of fresh of air for this Latina.

Thank you, cookie dough, for being my weakest link.

I always eat way too much of you and my tummy hurts.That never stops me.

Thank you, Javier, for always telling me “Es parte de la experiencia” throughout my study abroad experience. Sometimes when I get frustrated writing my thesis, your words come to my mind.

Thank you, Papa Lima, for instilling your interest of movies into me.You also quote Stand and Deliver like crazy, which combines nicely with Javier’s words.

Thank you, Sunday evening run, for reminding me how much I need to get back into the habit of running. I miss the runner’s high and the wonderful feeling of lacing up my Asics.

Thank you, Vivian, for taking the time to talk to me in the ladies room during the conference. It was so refreshing speaking in Spanish while you shared your story. You also let me tell you about my family’s story about how prayer and faith overcame alcoholism and abuse. I appreciate all the hard work you are doing keeping the ladies room clean. You are one of my heroes, because providing for your daughter’s education at Purdue University is why you refill toilet paper rolls at the Crowne Plaza. Talking with you was better than any key note speaker.I will never forget you.

Thank you, Babies, for being a movie that I've been waiting for.You will help me overcome my fear of childbirth by embracing the stories of different babies.

I can't wait to watch you

"Vivir Lo Nuestro"

Amazing weekend. A meanful post to follow later.

After this off the chain weekend, I need some great music to accompany the thesising. Nothing fits better than some 80's style Marc Anthony and La India. I'm pretty sure they planned to have the same hair style at this show.

If you see me walking around the library doing a little salsa step or two, with my qualitative research method and identity development theory books, this is why...



Ah, yes. The 80's clothes and hairstyle tops off this classic salsa song.

Latino/a Ethnic Identity Development...bring it freaking on.

...and yes, Marc Anthony's hair is longer than mine...and yes, it's just wrong, but the man is a classic salsa icon.

It's The Freaking Weekend

Gracias, Sara, for the cartoon.

This is a true picture of the interaction between my apartment mate and I in the morning. Can you guess which one is me?

I'm currently on break at the International Service-Learning Conference which is happening all today and tomorrow. I am LOVING it...but it's exhausting.

Who would have known that talking about getting students involved in service learning, social justice, racial reconciliation, community engagement and global citizenship would be so tiring? But on the plus side, I am learning so freaking much. My thesis is going to be off the chain.

On a happy note, it's the freaking weekend, baby, and I'm gonna have me some fun. Tonight, I get to hang out with one of my student-turned-really-good-friend with his wife. It's going to be the bomb-dot-com reminiscing about our times at the good ol' Letu.

Don't worry readers, you will get a more meaningful entry later on. Peace out.


Don't miss the Google friend option on the right. I would love to know who my readers are!

Dive Back Into Identity

Patients of a psychiatric hospital we visited in Cuba.

I will never forget that trip and these joyful women.

They taught me how beautiful is it be alive.

After turning in major projects and papers, I am finally able to really get the thesis into the best shape it can be. As I dive back into identity development theories and the benefits of study abroad, I am reminded of the process of how I ended up at this topic. I posted an entry in May, which I think is appropriate to share with y'all again.

In this entry, I provided a small picture of my process with my thesis topic: Purpose of the study.

Thank you, thesis topic, for being a passion of mine. You are teaching me the beauty of flexibility and humility in the academic world.

Here are other entries that are relevant:

Only a Week

With the Uncle Making Jokes

Two Cents: "Don't Throw Your Pearls to the Swine"

Don't miss the Google friend option on the right. I would love to know who my readers are!

Learn: The Practice of Solitude

(Photo taken from here)

What am I learning today?

In this season of life, I am learning the true meaning of solitude. I am an extrovert, and I draw energy from being with people. At the same time, I am human.


How do I balance both my personality tendencies and my priorities of holistic health?

I must embrace solitude.

I love how Richard J. Foster explains it in his book The Celebration of Discipline:

“Solitude is more a state of mind and heart than it is a place. There is solitude of the heart that can be maintained at all times. Crowds, or the lack of them, have little to do with this inward attentiveness. It is quite possible to be a desert hermit and never experience solitude. But it we possess inward solitude we do not fear being along, for we know that we are not alone. Neither do we fear being with others, for they do not control us. In the midst of noise and confusion we are settled into a deep inner silence. Whether alone or among people, we always carry with us a portable sanctuary of the heart. Inward solitude has outward manifestations. There is the freedom to be alone, not in order to be away from people but in order to hear the divine Whisper better (pg. 96-97).”

Solitude is not always about secluding myself away in a cabin in the mountains, even though I would love to. Sometimes we still have the constant “noise” of life when we are by ourselves.

As this semester continues on, solitude is a practice that I hope to integrate in my habits. Either it’s going away for a weekend or just relaxing in my little apartment. By reflecting and being still, I hope to explore the “sanctuary of the heart” and be ready “to hear the divine Whisper”.

But why do we need to practice solitude?

As my boy Foster states, “The fruit of solitude is increased sensitivity and compassion for others. There comes a new freedom to be with people. There is new attentiveness to their needs, new responsiveness to their hurts (pg. 108).”

Preach it, brother.

That’s what I am learning today.

What does solitude mean to you?

Cheaper Than Paint and Canvases

Thank you, Mondays, for always being my least favorite day of the week.

You provide an opportunity for me to overcome the habit of being grumpy and cranky.

Thank you, 10 page papers, for being due at the same time.

You have pushed my thesis timeline back, but I’m learning the word flexibility.

Thank you, 2 hour Sunday soccer game, for making me run like the wind and getting kicked in the shins. I feel like a grandma, but I think we can dominate our intramural soccer game today.

Thank you, Howard, for being a super sweet vintage cruiser bike.

Since my water pump in my car died, I get to ride you to and around campus while looking like a hipster.

Thank you, LASP, for providing such an amazing study abroad experience. Not only do you serve as my main motivation for my thesis, but you remind me every day that’s its ok to not have all the answers in the world.

Thank you, ipod, for ditching me.

Ever since I lost you, I have faced my fear of silence, but also branched out to new music.

Thank you, blog, for being a creative outlet for me.

You are way cheaper than paint and canvas.

Thank you, future job, for being a dream come true.

Even though I have no idea what you are, I can’t wait to live in a city where I get to serve students and be committed to their education.

Thank you, International Service-Learning conference, for being this weekend.

I have looked forward to you all semester.You are providing me a chance to hang out in Indy, and you also feed into my addiction of community service and learning.

Nerd alert.

Thank you, friends, for not judging me and having patience.

Even when I say a bad word or tell you my corny jokes, you still love me for who I am.

You know who you are.

Thank you, Holy Spirit, for giving me the right words to say.

You fascinate me with your quick delivery.

Thank you, Marcel, for being a shell with shoes on.

You just gave me another reason to put another youtube video on my blog. By the way, I quote you like there is no tomorrow.

"Lady in Spain"

Don't you hate it when you have a song stuck in your head for over a week? Well, world, here's mine.


It's a cloudy day here in Indiana with the rain coming...perfect song to listen to while being in your pajamas all day. Don't forget to sip some hot apple cider....with NFL muted in the background.

If you hear me practicing my mouth trumpet, this is why...



Ingrid Michaelson is off the chain and the bomb digity. I wish I was an accomplished mouth trumpeter.


ps~Sorry for all the youtube videos. I know I have a problem.

"Icing On The Cake"

Humility is everywhere...here's one example:

Throughout my life, Mama Lima has been an example of a real Christian woman. One example that she displays is strength. Even though the woman is only 5 feet, she has strength like no other person. Through that strength she has protected and taken care of me through both the glorious and rough times. She has always instilled the value of learning and education ever since I was a little girl. Education came first. She always told me, “Do your homework…because you don’t deserve to work hard like me.”

Below is a StoryCorps video that is very similar to my story (except I’m an only child and Mama Lima is from Guatemala):



I would always get in trouble because I would steal post-it notes, paper clips and highlighters from people’s desks. I would make an “art project” (I think that’s where my love for post-it notes developed). I think I made more work for Mama Lima, but I think she got use to my "art projects" by then. That never stopped her from buying me snacks from the vending machine or giving me candy she would find on people’s desks.

It’s been over 30 years since Mama Lima immigrated from Guatemala to the states, and she still works hard. She still tells me to do my work. Whenever I’m home on break, she still brings me little treats from work. She still inspires me every day.

“There’s nothing that could stand in my way that didn’t stand in yours more. It’s the most important thing for me, having gone to college, and I feel like anything I do on from here on out is ok because I’ve already achieved my dream. Everything else is icing on the cake.”

Yes, mama…I’ll do my homework.



Who is your example of humility?

"Bodies in Urban Spaces"

If you see me straddling a tree, this is why...




I know, crazy. Reason #456 why I wouldn't mind living in a big city.

...and yes, the baby sounds do creep me out a bit.

Learn: G3 Sisters

What did I learn today?

You can never underestimate the power of friendship. Throughout my college years, I had the privilege of developing friendships that are dear to my heart.

Now that we all are in separate parts of the country, I know that they will always be my “G3 sisters”. Tonight they really pulled through when I texted them some words of my frustration with life and they responded with encouragement mixed in with humor and wittiness. I may have cried tears of laughter...

What is a G3er? Good question. A "G3er" is a female student who had or is currently living on the third floor of Gilbert Hall at LeTourneau University. Get it? Gilbert hall + 3rd floor = G3. Since LeTourneau does not have sororities, floor unity is pretty much what makes up the community at LeTourneau. I lived on G3 for three years and these ladies were my suitemates/roommates/bff and now they are my life long friends. Being an only child, I learned the beauty of sisterhood through their friendships. This lesson I have come to value in hopes of working in residence life when I graduate from grad school in May.

I lurve them to death.

Thank you, G3 sisters, for being there to watch TV and eat buckets of cookie dough when we should’ve been doing our homework during our college years. I long for the day when we reunite and talk into the wee hours of the morning about boys, work, Gilmore Girls, food, and how certain people can pull off skinny jeans.

Bottom line: Take advantage of the friendships you have. You never know when you are going to need encouragement and support...or someone to joke about how Hanson sounds like a bunch of girls.

That’s what one of the things I learned today.

Are you taking your friendships for granted?

Learn: Define Humility and Listen

What did I learn today?

Today I realized that I have been blogging quite a bit on the concept of humility, but I never really gave the definition of what humility means to me. It’s like I have been beating around the bush. I blogged about how I saw humility lived out and why pride is important to acknowledge when exploring the topic of humility.

Bottom line #1: Humility is being fully aware of the identity of one’s self while being modest while not being arrogant or prideful. Yet, one can feel insignificant and lower superiority while still maintaining confidence.

That’s my ideal definition of humility. Again, as I continue on this journey of exploring what humility is, I’m still in the process of finding out what my definition truly means to me.
It’s funny that ever since I have shifted my blogging to more of an intentional learning journal, I have become more aware of what I learn each day (which is pretty much the point of the assignment). Anyways, as I continue to learn, inside and outside the classroom, I realize the more I need to embrace humility. I probably have stated this in previous blog entries, but the more “education” I receive the more I realize that I really don’t know anything at all.

Funny, huh?

Learning requires humility. Without humility you are not able to receive information, knowledge, or skills to continue on in life. In order to take learning to a deeper level of learning, humility must be the front man on lines. For me, deep learning requires emotion to be put into play. For me to really grasp the deeper part, I may relate back to a memory, person or anything that is a major part of who I am. As I continue to increase my deep learning ability, I must remind myself that humility is a major part of my learning experience. I like to talk. I like to talk a lot. I like to express what is on my mind and what opinions I have about the matter. Yet, if I am to be taken serious and hopefully teach others, I must listen. That’s communication.

I must continue to remind myself that listening to others is important and that everyone comes from a different perspective. That’s part of the learning process. If we just shut up for a minute and listen to what others have to say, we could be astonished of the wisdom and knowledge that some people have.

Bottom line #2: As I continue to learn how to define humility, listening is what I must do to continue my deeper sense of learning.

That’s what I learned today.

Are you listening?

Learn: The Beauty of Memories

What did I learn today?

Memories can be a blessing or seem to be a curse. They remind us of the joyful moments of life or uncover some hurt and healing that needs to be done. At the same time, they can be humbling. They can remind us of the lesson learned or that embarrassing moment.

Today was a day full of uncovered memories. From the smallest funniest memories to the painful life changing memories, I was able to look back see the growth. Yes, there are some memories that still need a “happy ending”…but there’s hope.

Let us not disregard the beauty of memories. They represent a huge part of who we are. They change our lives. Even though they may bring sorrow, but they can also bring joy. Even though they can split us, but they unite us. Yet they are all part of the Plan.

Its how we react to and what we do with the memories that matter. Do we let them bring us down? Or do we rejoice in the growth and the hope we have?

That's what I learned today.

They Wear "Boo" Jeans

Thank you, broccoli, for not overcooking last night.

I did a little booty dance because you were so green and scrumptious.

Thank you, Patriots, for winning your game yesterday.

Even though I was a little nervous, you still pulled out some great plays. I do think that your quarterback needs a haircut.

Thank you, Chicago, for being so freaking awesome on Friday.

You reminded me how much I love big cities. Also, your deep dish pizza makes me drool with delight. I hope to live in you someday.

Thank you, North Park University, for having the 2nd Annual Student Diversity Leadership Conference. It was refreshing to see all the beautiful faces of students from different universities. Also, I may have shaken my booty a little bit when your step team stepped it up.

Thank you, TLC, for contributing to my procrastination.

You air shows that I think are mind blogging and close to “reality”.

Thank you, BFF, for not encouraging my corny jokes.

This does not mean that I will stop texting you at 12:00am asking you what kind of pants ghosts wear. By the way, they wear “boo” jeans. Ha. Gets me every time.

Thank you, Ingrid Michaelson and Paramore, for being my cooking music yesterday.

Your strong and beautiful voices make me want to shout, “I am woman. Hear me roar”. Also, singing in a Julia Child voice to your songs is one of the best things I have ever done.

Thank you, Come Thou Fount, your lyrics remind me of how human I can be.

What are you thankful for?

Learn: Acknowledge Pride

What did I learn today?

“The real issue here is not if pride exists in your heart; it’s where pride exists and how pride is being expressed in your life. Scripture shows us that pride is strongly and dangerously rooted in all our lives, far more than most of us care to admit or even think about.”

~C.J. Mahaney, Humility: True Greatness (pg. 29)

The first step that we must take towards achieving humility (which I honestly think will be a lifelong process) is admitting the pride that we have in our lives. Most importantly, we must continually examine my life and evaluate where pride has taken over. It’s important for us to admit that pride is an everyday occurrence for us humans. For the past week, I have been mulling over the last part of the above quote. Granted, I know that there will be times that I have no idea that I’m being prideful, but that does not justify that it’s ok. I must be consciously

…But I love how Mahaney continues on explaining the beauty of God’s mercy.

“He’s merciful in this act of revealing this sin to our hearts and in identifying its seriousness and potential consequences. He is merciful, and He intends to protect us. So throughout His Word, God exposes pride as our greatest enemy.”

~ C.J. Mahaney, Humility: True Greatness (pg. 35)

I don’t want to end this entry on a sad note about pride. I hope to spark some challenge in you, readers, just as I continue to challenge myself. Seek out where pride plays into your life. Find those weaknesses.

Explore. Evaluate.

That's what I learned today.

"Modern Nature"

If you see me shimmying and shaking a little booty with the fall leaves swirling all around me, this is why...



...perfect song for this perfect sunny Saturday. Thank you, Dan In Real Life, for having an off-the-chain soundtrack. You also do a great job portraying Steve Carrell as a normal sane being.


What makes you shimmy and shake your booty this Saturday?

Learn: Humility Lived Out

What did I learn today?

Yesterday the whole world witnessed history when 32 Chilean miners and 1 Bolivian miner, who have been trapped for 65 days, were saved in 22 hours. Luis Urzua, who was the group’s foreman and is now known to be the group’s leader, was the last miner who was brought up to the surface and broke the world record for being underground the longest. When the accident happened on August 5th, the world held its breath to see if there was any chance for any sign of the men. 17 days later, drillers were able to drill with a camera down to the men and they saw a face. Then they found the note on the drill stating the 33 were all alive. Since then the attempts for the rescue of the 33 continued on and ended yesterday.

I’ll be honest and admit that I spent the whole day at my desk watching the live feed of the men being rescued. Even though I missed the first rescuer coming up to the surface, I was still able to catch video clips of the young son crying to meet his beloved father.

I do have a lot of things to say about the event, I do want to stress what is the main point. Humility has been a word that I have trying to define these past couple of weeks. As I watched each of the men being rescued in the Phoenix, humility and solidarity were the two words that I could only think of. Several of the men even bowed down on their knees to thank God for the rescue. Some of them were not ashamed of crying in front of world as they embraced their loved ones.

Can you imagine living underground for 65 days? Without seeing your family? Without having a comfortable bed? Having to not eat more than a spoonful of tuna and a cup of milk those first 17 days? It was hot and dark. It’s crazy to think of the things we take for granted. 33 men.

These men are miners. A majority of them went into the mining business due to the lack of finances. From business men to former soccer players, these men worked for a living because of the responsibility of families. Many of them had children to factor in and even had a couple to put through college.

Each man that was rescued was able to receive a bear hug and encouraging words from the President Sebastian Pinera, a billionaire, with the world watching. A miner hugging a billionaire, because life triumphs over death.

"The only thing I ask, personally, is that you please not treat us like celebrities or journalists," ~ Mario Antonio Sepulveda Espinace, second miner that was rescued.

I am humbled by the event because:

...the men did everything they could do to keep on living.

...no matter how cameras were on them, they still displayed their love and affection for their families.

...each person had a role while they were down in the mine.

...their leader was willing to be the last one rescued. He wanted his workers to be saved.

...these men were patient enough to develop a community underground. Even if there might have been conflict, they kept each other alive.

...when I read more about their stories, solidarity, is the only I can think of that defines their experience.

To learn more about the 33 miners stories click here, here, and here.

Picture taken from here.

My Pizza Face Now Thanks You

Thank you, Spanish guitar, for being my cooking music yesterday.

You made me talk like Julia Child in Spanish with a lisp.

Thank you, fall, for being an awesome season.

You make taking pictures fun and the essence of cool.

Thank you, Attribution theory, for reminding that I must not judge and automatically assume things. We all are fallen people.

Thank you, Land of Up weather, for being indecisive these past couple of days. Although others are grumpy about the warm weather, it provides more of a window for me to gear up for the brutal winters.

Thank you, Jumping Bean, for always having yummy drip coffee right outside my office door. Sometimes when my day gets stressful, I like to sit on your couches and let the coffee aroma fill my nostrils.

Thank you, #58 sundae, for being so divine.

You provide my taste buds the beautiful combination of mint and chocolate. Also, my pizza face now thanks you for having massive amounts of chocolate.

Thank you, Sunday night volleyball, for being so intense last night.

Not only are my hamstrings rejoicing with pain right now, but my competitiveness just increased 50 notches.

Thank you, apartment mate, for getting polar pops last night.

Your little act of kindness gave my research group a bit of hope and energy to work into the wee hours of the morning.

Thank you, Thanksgiving break, for being a week long.

I’m using you as motivation to bulldoze my way through this semester. I can’t wait to stuff my face out with Mama Lima’s turkey and watch endless hours of football with the Papa Lima.

Thank you, Wavin’ Flag, for being in my head all weekend.

Not only do I think of the World Cup everytime, but I get a little teary eyed as I picture my students waving their flag with pride and dignity.

"Mystery Zone" by Spoon

Just imagine me frolicking through the fall colored leaves with this song in the background:



...and my black curly hair blowing in the wind.

On My Way On Taking Comfort In Rituals

Thank you, trees, for producing such pretty colors on your leaves.

You make me want to shimmy and shake my booty.

Thank you, savings account, for letting me get my ticket to Texas for Thanksgiving.
That week is going to be...off. the. chain. *fist pump in the air*

Thank you, cell phone, for making a freaking annoying sound in the morning to wake me up.
You make me want to throw you across the room.

Thank you, Mama Lima, for being the bomb-dot-com and loving me for who I am.
You are not afraid to be real with me. You also don't take my crap.

Thank you, cohort, for walking alongside of me during this time called grad school.
Let's rock this trash.

Thank you, BFF, for letting me text you my corny jokes late at night.
It comforts me to know someone in Texas thinks I'm crazy.

Thank you, gospel choir, for singing your heart out at chapel.

You fill my soul with joy and grant me the liberty to dance for Jesus.

Thank you, New England, for being the location of my childhood.
You shaped my worldview and my love for the Patriots.

Thank you, Starbucks, for bringing back the pumpkin spice latte.
I'm well on my way on taking comfort in rituals.

Thank you, Today's Letters, for inspiration.

Thank you, assistantship, for letting me learn how to be a professional.
It's here where my love for community service and education are combined.
*ten awesome gold stars*



What are you thankful for?

Learn: "You Gotta Have 'Ganas'"

What did I learn today?

I’ll be honest. Grad school is tough and can be a little discouraging. Sometimes it feels like our life is consumed by: projects, readings, thesis, work, cooking dinner, laundry, relationships, finances, life, and etc. Most of the days are consumed with stress. Sleep becomes a foreign concept to most of us. Some of us lose weight, because we don’t have time to eat. Some of us gain weight, because we rely on take out and frozen pizzas to keep us alive. For me, I know that I must continue to find things that continue my momentum going. Going straight from undergrad to graduate, one can feel a little burnt out.

One of my favorite movies is Stand and Deliver. Despite the 80’s style, Stand and Deliver is listed as a classic in my list. The movie is about a high school math teacher, Jamie Escalante (played by Edward James Olmos), who is passionate about teaching his students calculus. To provide a little background, the setting is in East Los Angeles. The majority of the students are Latino/a’s and come from hard backgrounds. School is the last thing in their minds. Resources for the school are not a priority as well. The best part is that throughout the movie, Mr. Escalante uses the word “ganas” when he is motivating his students to learn.

What does the word “ganas” mean? Is it Spanish?

Why, yes it is. The word “ganas” comes from the infinitive word “ganar” which means “to win”. Mr. Escalante told his students , “You have to have ‘ganas’ to learn this stuff”. In this context “ganas” means “to feel like” or “in the mood”. Mr. Escalante says it with this deep tone in his voice while holding a fist to show strength. He is challenging his students to feel it deep within themselves to learn calculus. They have to go into a deeper level and get the motivation from the inside to keep moving forward.

In this clip, the setting is a teacher meeting. They are discussing the future of the school and the lack of resources. You can clearly see what the expectations of the teachers are of their students in this short clip. You can also sense what they were feeling about the situation. The best part of the clip is Mr. Escalante’s response to the situation that is being discussed:

(Youtube offers more clips from the movie. I would encourage you to watch a couple to gain a deeper understanding of Mr. Escalante's teaching style)

I loved Stand and Deliver ever since I was a little girl. Papa Lima introduced this movie to me and has been quoting lines all my life. Throughout my undergrad, he would always tell me to have “ganas” to the times that I just wanted to quit. Now in grad school, he still repeats, “You gotta have ‘ganas’, Melissa. Just like the movie.”

Not only is the movie an encouragement and an advocacy for urban background students, but also for educators. Since I’m choosing higher education as a career, I strive for being an educator just like Mr. Escalante. He studied his students and saw what worked for them. He did not give up on them when they gave him attitude or trashed his house. He worked with them extra hours in the morning and after school for them to learn calculus.

“Ganas” is what I need to continue on. “Ganas” is what I need to finish what is set out before me. “Ganas” is what I need to encourage and motivate my students. “Ganas” is how I need to learn.

I can't wait for the day when I hold me fist up and tell my students, "You gotta have 'ganas'".

That’s what I learned today.

Do you have "ganas"?

Learn: 32 NFL Teams

What did I learn today?

There are exactly 32 NFL teams and I named 20 of them off the top of my head. How embarrassing. I call myself an avid NFL watcher and I only got half the teams. Papa Lima would've been dissapointed.The worst part is that some of the teams I missed are so easy. I couldn’t believe it. Oh well...

For those are you who are interested, here are the 20 I remembered (no particular order):

1) Patriots
2) Steelers
3) Bears
4) Texans
5) Cowboys
6) 49’ers
7) Ravens
8) Packers
9) Raiders
10) Dolphins
11) Bengals
12) Broncos
13) Vikings
14) Jaguars
15) Lions
16) Colts
17) Giants
18) Jets
19) Seahawks
20) Titans

Here are the ones I missed (Again, no particular order):

1) Falcons
2) Bills
3) Chiefs
4) Saints
5) Eagles
6) Rams
7) Buccaneers
8) Redskins
9) Pathers
10) Cardinals
11) Browns
12) Chargers

Bottom line: I learned that there are 32 NFL and I knew about 20 of them. Follow-up questions: How many Bible verses do I know? How many of my family member’s birthdays do I remember? How many hymns do I remember? How many answered prayers in my life do I remember?

Funny…the things we remember.

That’s what I learned today.

Which NFL teams are your favorite?

ps~*ten awesome gold stars* for NFL this Sunday for supporting Breast Cancer Awareness month (picture taken from here)

Background Music

On this crispy fall day (also while doing homework), soundtracks are my background music. I'm currently listenting to these soundtracks: Juno, Eat.Pray.Love, Vicky Christina Barcelona, and Moulin Rouge.




What are some of your favorite soundtracks?


ps-Stayed tuned for what I have learned these past couple of days...

Learn: Cornhole

What did I learn today?

I learned what the game of cornhole is and how to play it. I have never even heard of the game before. So when I was invited to a cornhole tournament at a friend’s house, you can imagine the confusion I had prior to arriving. My friends encouraged me by saying this is a cultural thing of the Midwest and that I truly will experience the Midwest through playing this game. Well, they were right. (Picture taken from here)

So for my New England/Texas/wherever-you-from friends, I have included information on what is cornhole and how to play it.

So Lima, what the heck is cornhole?

“It has been called many things, Corn Toss, Bean Bag, Bean Toss, Soft Horseshoes, Indiana Horseshoes, but to many of us born and raised in Kentucky and the southern part of Ohio, the game is passionately referred to as Cornhole.

It has been said that the game originated in Germany in the 14th century, and then was rediscovered in the hills of Kentucky over 100 years ago.

The truth is, who really knows, but the game is great fun for all ages and can be played anywhere!

Cornhole or Corn Toss is similar to horseshoes except you use wooden boxes called cornhole platforms and corn bags instead of horseshoes and metal stakes. Contestants take turns pitching their corn bags at the cornhole platform until a contestant reaches the score of 21 points. A corn bag in the hole scores 3 points, while one on the platform scores 1 point.

Scoring can be swift and the lead may change hands several times in a match before the winner is decided.

The game is generally played tournament style with an individual or team being named the champion at the end of the tournament.” (Information taken from American Cornhole Association website)

Even though it'a a popular game in Kentucky and Ohio, people in Indiana love to play this game.

So why do people play cornhole?

“The biggest reasons to play Cornhole or Corn Toss instead of horseshoes or other similar games is that Cornhole can be played anywhere and everyone can play Cornhole.

If you can aim and toss a corn bag 30 feet, you can master the game of Cornhole - It's great for family outings.

Cornhole can be played anywhere - driveways, parks, backyard, campgrounds, beaches and even in-doors.

Safe for everyone - no metal or pointed objects. Corn bags are made of extra soft 12 oz. duck canvas material and filled with pliable high quality feed corn.

No muss; no fuss. Two cornhole platforms and 8 corn bags and you’re ready to play the game.

Very portable. Can be taken anywhere. Fits in most car trunks and there are fold-down models that are even more portable.

Horseshoes require a sand pit and are hard for the kids to pitch, lawn darts require a lawn and hasn’t been seen since the 70’s, ring toss was made for children and bean bags are for wimps; Cornhole is the game for everyone!

It’s great fun for the whole family.” (Information taken from the American Cornhole Association website)

Once I finally understood the concept, I concluded that it was just like a beanbag toss that I use to play at harvest parties in New England. It did take me a little getting used to the throwing technique. Let’s just say that after a warm up, I impressed the “experts” that I improved greatly.

Watch out, world. Cornhole champ in the making, here.

That’s what I learned today.

For more information on:
How to play Cornhole, click here.
Cornhole official rules, click here.
American Cornhole Association, click here.

Learn: "Don't Be Sorry. Be Right."

What did I learn today?

For some of us, learning a lesson may be a magical experience. Like those commercials you see of a child opening up a book and a light shines out with stars and happiness floating through the air. For others, learning a lesson is painful. It may cost us some money, dignity, or pride. Since I’ve been blogging about learning, I figured I should elaborate on what’s my take on learning. For me, I’m quite the stubborn type and it usually hurts for me to learn a “life” lesson. Whenever I did something that was not so smart or dropped the ball on a responsibility I had, I would apologize over and over again to Papa Lima. My own guilt would get the best of me (usually, my parents would let my guilt be my punishment, which I think is the worst). I figured by saying sorry over and over again would fix the problem. At the time, I didn’t realize that Papa Lima was asking questions about the situation to help me process what happened and learn from my mistake. He would just get so fed up with me saying “Sorry”, that he would say, “Don’t be sorry. Be Right”. That confused the heck out of me. Years later, I finally understand what he meant.

“Don’t be sorry. Be Right” meant: quite dwelling, learn from your mistake and move on.

Ooooooooooh.

Today, Papa Lima’s words keeps repeating over and over again. This semester has been front heavy for me. From my assistantship (internship), school work, and thesis, I have been quite busy. Today, I realized all the mistakes I was making or had made (a realization I had a couple days ago contributed to this as well). Then out of nowhere, Papa Lima’s words came into my mind. It was like a light bulb that went off. That’s what he meant this whole time.
At the beginning of the semester, I picked humility as a word that sums up what learning is in my Facilitating Student Learning Class. Last year, my first grad school year, I realized that I pretty much didn’t know anything at all. I had to humble myself to God’s great power and knowledge for me to achieve my goals. Humility was the only way to survive last year. Humility is the only way to get me through this year. Humility will be the only way to continue on in the future.

Bottom line: With humbleness, don’t be sorry. Be right.

Gracias Papi.

That’s what I learned today.

Learn: *Ten Awesome Gold Stars For Panera's Coffee*

What did I learn today?

Panera bread is the best place to get a drip coffee from. As an avid coffee drinker, I have tried several different places that serve coffee and never really had quite an experience like I did at Panera.

*Ten awesome gold stars for Panera's coffee*

Tip: Mix the dark roast (organically grown from Costa Rica) with a hint of Hazelnut. Yum

That’s what I learn today.

Learn: Don't Take It Personal

What did I learn today?

Don’t take it personal when someone, who is respected and knowledgeable in the field, tells you about a weakness you have. This person did a very good job about being honest, but provided encouragement about my weakness. Yet, I have to admit that it stung a little bit. At the moment, I reacted grateful for them telling me. Then after thinking about it, I was easily discouraged. I just wanted to quit and go home to Texas.

I am blessed on having a boss who is truly concern for my well being. When I plopped down on her couch with my discouraged face, she stopped what she was doing and listened to me. She not only helped me process the situation and my weakness, but advocated the growth that could result from this situation. She gently reminded me that this person really does know what they are talking about and does really care about my reputation in higher education. Granted, there are supervisors/advisors/mentors out there that are not encouraging at all, and don’t have people skills. I have been in those situations and have not reacted the way I should have. This situation was different though. I am grateful that it was a learning opportunity. It’s important to distinguish those different situations and when to say “enough is enough” or “thank you for that”.

In the end, I really did appreciate today. This morning I was able to dream big and set some future goals, and in the afternoon I was reminded on the baby steps that I needed to take to get there. Five years from now, I’ll look back and realize how right this person was and see how much I have grown.

Bottom line: Don’t take it personal when a superior is giving you constructive feedback about a weakness you have. In the end, it’s actually encouragement that they are providing.

That's what I learned today.

Learn: Being Bilingual is Beneficial

What did I learn today?

Today during a break during class, I was able to catch Laura Chinchilla’s (Costa Rica’s president) interview on the CNN show, Rick’s List. For those of you, who know me well; know that I love Costa Rica. I was privileged to study abroad there, and had many amazing life changing experiences there. It was also in Costa Rica where my passion for Latin America (which includes it's history, politics, people, culture and etc.) bloomed. I just loved the fact that Chinchilla was able to speak English so well, but she also did an amazing job communicating affectively the responses about what makes Costa Rica so special.

This just adds to the fact why being bilingual in this day of age is beneficial. You are able to communicate to a broad audience, but you also gain respect in international affairs. Good for her for speaking boldly about Costa Rica and it's relationship with the United States. Because she used professional language, I was able to understand her main points. Even though Sanchez had to clear up a question for her, he still valued and respect her responses.This encouraged me. Even though I can communicate fluently in Spanish, I still lack the professional language. I know that I am not capable enough to present a presentation in Spanish, but there is always room for improvement. In the near future (meaning after May when I graduate), I aspire to improve my Spanish to a point where I can speak affectively in a professional setting.

Bottom line: Being bilingual, in a professional matter, is impressive, beneficial and respectful.

That’s what I learned today.

(You can watch Chinchilla's interview here)

Learn: Don't Be Too Preoccupied For Responsibilities

What did I learn today?

When my brain is preoccupied with things, I become forgetful. This results in consequences. Thus, I may remember that there is a time to ponder on life’s responsibilities, school, work, relationships and etc.

Example A) My phone went through the wash. Why? Because I was in a rush to put my clothes in the wash and get back to my thesis as soon as possible.

Example B) I overcooked my broccoli. Why? Because I was sitting at the kitchen table wondering how I was going to pay rent and buy groceries all in the same week.

Example C) I missed a work meeting on Friday. Why? Because I wanted to get home as soon as I can to call a friend who was having a life crisis.

…and I can go on. Yes, I can be careless sometimes. But when I came into the office this morning and realized that I missed the important meeting on Friday, I knew that there is a limit. Enough is enough. I need to calm the heck down and think about one thing at a time. It will get done. It will get paid. It will get resolved.

That’s what I learned today.

Learn: A New Joke

What did I learn today?

I learned a new joke.

Q: What do you call a man with no arms and legs in a swimming pool?

A: Bob.

Bahahahahahaha…love it.

That’s what I learned today.

Follow-up from my tragic phone story: I ended buying a cheap phone today. There was no hope. Also, I am horrible with electronics.