In my life, I’ve spent countless hours in terminals around the world reminiscing of that summer or semester’s great memories. At times, it feels like my life is on constant fast-forward from one summer to another, one terminal to another. So terminals evoke rather bittersweet emotions for me, they remind of the amazing experiences I’ve been so fortunate to have had in my lifetime but also of the multitudes of places and friends I’ve said goodbye to.
So now here I am sitting at the
My summer in DC was outstanding; the city is amazing and the experience was unforgettable. It’s difficult to convey my love for the city to people who haven’t experience it for themselves. To them, my gushing over meeting politicians and visiting historical sites can seem like a fanatical experience quite appropriate for a “power-hungry” city like DC. Rather, I have experienced quite a different city throughout this summer, I have experienced the “historical DC,” the “proud DC,” and the “selfless DC.” Sure, those power-hungry people certainly exist in DC, but the good people have left a much better impression on me. In this city, I remembered the millions of good Americans who have given their life serving this country. In this city, I realized the tremendous impact that a few great leaders have made throughout the course of history. And in this city, I was reminded of the earnest hope and desire a person can have to change this world for the better. Politicians are often written off as sleazy or self-gratifying, but I’ve come to believe that almost every one of these men and women serve because they genuinely want to and can effect positive change for people. Sure, I disagree with many politicians regarding how to best bring about that change, but regardless of their thoughts or political persuasion, I have a tremendous amount of respect for them.
As with every great “experience” I have had in my life, I have considered what it is that I’ve learned during my time in DC. After all, this term experience cannot loosely be attached to any event or period of time, rather, experience requires judgment. Judgment is required to discern what was learned and how I grew, so that my summer in DC is more meaningful than just an event in my lifetime. I’ve learned from this experience the true power of hope and meaning of ambition.
So now I continue to hope. Hope that a Black man can become president. Hope that Asians can be better represented in politics and media. Hope that this world can become a better place. I also continue to strive. Strive to live for more than financial security and power. Strive to live for Christ and on behalf of others.
“There’s nothing wrong with making money, but focusing your life solely on a buck shows a poverty of ambition.” – Barack Obama.
No comments:
Post a Comment