Some thoughts for the day

It is a lie imbedded in society that one's worth or value is dependent on performance and achievement. It is a lie to think that you can somehow become more worthy by doing this, doing that, by always doing something more. I want to start seeing people through a different lens - not the lens that society puts on - and be able to appreciate someone because of their inherent value. And for myself? There's nothing more I have to do to make myself more valuable or more worthy. Society continues to shout out that we need to do this, we need to change that in order to be more "valuable". My value is something that is set - it does not continuously fluctuate and does not depend on whether I [fill in the blank]. And obviously God saw me as valuable because he sent his Son to die for me. So dang, that value bar has already been set pretty high and we can just take a breath and RELAX.

A quick update on life here in Salt Lake:

-Classes have started and my microbiology teacher has a good sense of humor and is pretty chill. He told our class the first day that he wasn't going to take attendance and that we can basically choose what section to show up for (which makes my schedule pretty flexible). He also said that he understands if we'd rather learn from the textbook and not come to class at all - haha so counter-Wheaton. 

-Today was my first day of volunteering at Maliheh Free Clinic & I'm honestly excited to spend time here this summer. It seems like everyone actually wants to be there and provide medical services to the underserved (those below the poverty line here in Salt Lake). One of the clinic's core values is hope and I love that. It's beautiful to be in a position where you can extend hope to someone who is in need of it. 

-I'm reading through scripture + using a O/T commentary to supplement my readings. Praying for Thailand and the Middle East and also slowly becoming updated on world events.

-My mom had a cancer scare and had to get a biopsy for an infection on her tongue. She's so frail and her work at the post office and at the church are both taxing. Still, she's incredibly dedicated and obedient to God's will. Prayer for her (as well as my church in Salt Lake) is much appreciated and needed!!

Thankful list:

-Kombucha tea & Whole Foods chocolate mousse 

-Spending time with my sister yesterday 

-Maliheh Clinic 

-Classes that keep me busy and keep me from otherwise turning into a couch potato