Haha today is special for 2 reasons:

1.) This afternoon I returned from the alternative spring break trip (Collegiate Challenge) with Habitat for Humanity in Sussex County, Delaware. Demolishing/Building houses is something I’d never thought I’d done. However, I did it, for an entire week. It was physically exhausting. However, at the end of the day, no matter how dirty (literally covered in mud and sweat) and how sore (from the tip of my fingers to my entire spine) I felt, a sense of accomplishment always overcame me. Gratitude expressed by the local community members, residents, and owners of the houses constantly reminded me that this was such a rewarding experience. Like Tyler said, we could’ve been tanning in a beach in Miami, but we chose to contribute our time and energy into improving the living conditions of the underserved population. Although it was frustrating to not be able to finish the houses that we started, in the end, we gave absolutely 200% of efforts. There was no complaint and no regret. Seeing the smile on the home owner’s faces was enough satisfaction. What I took away was building experiences, friendship, and life lessons. These were things that I cannot necessarily gain from merely studying and going to classes in college. This may just be one of the most meaning breaks I’ve ever had.

2.) Just when I was about to prepare for the worst housing situation for next year… I finally got home, checked my email, and took a look at my housing number. After learning what my suitemates got, I became especially grateful for my luck. Is it luck though? I prefer to call it karma. Not that other people have done misdeeds, but I think lately I’ve done quite some good for others, which range from close friends to strangers in a foreign community. Fortunately I will be living in a comfortable/convenient/almost luxurious environment with my friends during my last year at Brandeis. 

-2/24/2012