February 28, 2013 : Doing My Homework

This is my quiet day, the first of my days off after making it through my work schedule relatively intact.  Tomorrow I will have regained my energy and drive and be back up and out and doing, but today is my quiet day, to spend recharging and relaxing. 

And so today I have decided to begin quietly doing my homework. 

My daughters are in agreement, and I concur, that a change of some kind is in order for me. 

Having finally grasped the concept that there are inevitabilities in my life from which there will never be a true escape; and, realizing that spending the remainder of that life in my current situation is untenable; and, being perfectly able to research and locate options that reach out and grab my attention and interest; and, knowing that my alma mater has never once let me down in any quest I've ever had for 1) a new direction, 2) a nurturing of my strengths, and 3) an environment both as exciting and as challenging as I choose to make it ...
...

... I have chosen to begin my research, my homework if you will, on this quiet day exploring possible options at UND. 

The University of North Dakota in Grand Forks has been my 'go to' place for the entirety of my adult life.  It has sheltered me when I was in danger; it has gifted me with knowledge and experience; it has been there for me. 

And so, yes, now I am finally at a place in my life where I'm strong enough to want to be able to give back, at least a little. 

I have no money to donate but I do have more of my own self to share than ever before, and maybe I can find a niche where I can be useful in some small way. 

In the course of my homework I found that they're directing attention toward an area that has been part of everything I've ever done - Conflict Resolution.  They're also going to be hiring an Ombudsperson, a one-year pilot program.  Maybe they'll want a part time support person - I have a feeling this is going to grow very quickly ... they're going to need help.  I can help.  I can do that. 

I can also spend time at the Women's Center.

And Alpha Chi.  Oh yes.  Alpha Chi Omega.  The Symphony.