Friday, August 22, 2008

Starting my Spanish journey and recognizing a true blessing in my life: my older sister







It's 2 in the morning and I'm waiting for the laundry machine to finish its job so I can start packing up.

In the past few days I have written two lengthy papers, taken 2 back to back final exams, played basketball, ran to Granchester, went to my last formal dinner, tasted superb white wine, ate my last McDonald's apple pie (Cambridge edition), visited numerous colleges, and more. It's been quite sad to say goodbye to so many wonderful people.

In my next entry I will hopefully be able to expand more on what I have learned this summer and how I have been influenced and shaped by the surrounding environment. Until then, I will be completing the Camino de Santiago, the Camino Frances. This pilgrimage of over 200 miles (I'm only doing it for around 2 weeks) means more than just walking for 8 hours a day and soaking in the Spanish countryside. I will be given countless hours to just spend by myself, and meditate on what I plan to do with my life. With my pocket bible at my side, I look forward to the lack of distractions as I complete the Pilgrimage. I will be writing in a notepad every evening, so when I get back I will transcribe a few of my days to this blog. I cannot wait for my flight home back to the states...I'll be back towards the 2nd week of September...then it's time to begin a new school year!

Please pray for my safety and a time inundated in what happened, what is happening, and what is to come.

Before ending this entry, I would like to wish my older sister Julie a happy birthday. If you don't know, I have an older sister who has embodied what a blessing should be. She has always been supportive and encouraging, and I have a tremendous amount of respect for her. I am incredibly thankful for her constant support and love. I really love you, and I hope you enjoy your birthday.

Cheers

3 comments:

ChosenCho said...

what a good little bro, and what a good nuna! =]
I'm glad you have her =]
Hey! so you gonna start the backpacking huh? GOodluck man! Have fun, reflect, and yay for the pocket bible! Can't wait to see you again in the month of September. I'm moving into the dorms on the 19th of september, so hurry and move in alright?!

nippyjulie said...

Thank you Jason.. and I love you!
I'll be praying for your safety on the pilgrimage.

I had an amazing time in Cancun and will share everything with you..

Linda Navroth said...

Hey Jason,

You've had quite an adventure this summer and are a very lucky young man to be able to do all that you did. I'm glad you created the blog so we could tag along. I know that you will use these experiences to forge your future, and also use them to create a better world.
Have a peaceful and pleasant journey. I look forward to reading your journal thoughts! I also look forward to your return to UCLA and working with you again!
Warm regards,
Linda