Smoothie and Swimming/ AmeriCorps

I have everything completed except a visit to the doctor.  That will come in time.  I am so thankful I had a few weeks off to adjust, acclimate, get organized, and breathe a little.  Besides cooking today, I took a nap and upon awaking - made myself a smoothie and went for a nice long swim around sunset.  I thought about going to zumba, but as often as I ride the bus, a day off from the bus can be refreshing to my spirit.  Plus, swimming is great exercise.  It completely soothes my body.  I swam a few laps and then came home, put on my pajamas, made some tea, and feel utterly content. 

Tomorrow is AmeriCorps graduation for the members last year.  I think all the new members are going and it will be a chance to talk to the old members and see what's up! I am very excited about starting my job Tuesday.  I am looking forward to meeting the people that I will be working with this year- young and vivacious folks.  Today I was in the office and I saw all kinds of people with a wide spectrum of disability.  It touches my heart how overlooked and undervalued these folks are to our society.  I feel excited to discover the ways my heart is going to expand and grow through this year of service.  I have no idea what to expect.  I know there's a month of training and a concentration of arts.  I have gotten a tour, and I was impressed with the large facilities for music, theatre, ceramics, art, computers, etc., I also know there are "outings" and buses.   My friends across the street encouraged me that it can be very fulfilling but nothing of the self, and it's a call to true servant life.  They also encouraged me with gifts of hospitality and cheer.  He reminded me that sometimes people can't change, can't respond, and don't remember you, but you keep pouring yourself out in love.  This kind of love is the servant heart Jesus had for all of us. 

My prayer is that God will tender my heart with deep love for everyone in this program, that I will serve with joy, and that this year with AmeriCorps will be a big expansion of my heart and soul.  Let there be love! May there be laughter, too, and a daily appreciation for the gift of life.