So it is true. Senioritis. I swore it wouldn't happen to me, and I swore that I would be on top of all my work this semester. Ha ha. I've realized that the only way to stay sane is to simply not worry about it all. I just have to realize that with a little work (but not by overworking), everything that needs to get done this semester will get done without so many worries.
A few days ago in my history class (Medicine and Society), we were discussing AIDS. I've always understood that it is a huge problem faced by millions of people, a great majority of whom have never understood how the HIV virus is transmitted, and who've never had access to life-saving drugs. Commercials on TV urge us to "help join the fight against AIDS." But I've never understood quite what it is that I as an individual could do to help fight such a huge pandemic. Then at class last Thursday, a student guest came in - she's only my age, but has had a ton of experience volunteering with AIDS prevention programs in South America and Africa - she's even been to the US Capitol to help introduce legislation! This student has motivated and inspired me. I've realized there are things I can do to help. There are groups all over the country that help increase awareness about how HIV is transmitted and help introduce legislation to help those in countries hit hardest by AIDS (legislation that doesn't only give money to "faith-based" groups teaching abstinence only).
In other news, check out "Incite," a blog by Rachel's dad. It's always interesting to read and provides unique views on topics we rarely think about but are important parts of our lives, such as how each of us is a living, breathing miracle.
Since the Lumberjack is no longer posting it's "Give the Ax to..." section, I've decided to create my own:
Thumbs up: For those who are fighting to end inequalities against women in poorer countries, since in these countries women have some of the highest rates of being infected with HIV.
Give the ax to: President Bush for being "addicted to oil."
Holding Pattern
14 years ago
2 comments:
It always makes me feel so bad that other people our age have made real strides towards ending injustices in our world and I don't seem to even be able to set aside a couple of hours to volunteer for a worthy cause. Hopefully I'll get more dedicatd with age.
Thank you, Rachel, for bringing Colleen's blog to my attention. Colleen, I really like what you have to say. Thank you for complimenting "Incite". We all get to choose how we use the Internet, but you, Rachel, and Steve are helping to make it an informative, encouraging and hopeful experience for the rest of us.
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