The past few weeks have been incredibly busy. It feels like the semester should be halfway over by now, but, in reality, I have only had five days of classes. It’s going to be a long semester! (Which is a very good thing, because this will be my last one here at Belmont until I return from Spain…)
I was so very happy to return to Nashville. I actually didn’t even cry while saying goodbye to my family – that was a first! While my family and I were sitting in the airport, waiting for my plane to begin boarding, one of my best friends called me. I was overwhelmed by the excitement in her voice as she said, “Alex! I can’t wait to see you! Hurry up and get on that plane so you can come home!” Home. I was going home. What a comforting thought that was. After hanging up with her, another best friend called me. She, too, was anticipating our reunion and told me to call her if I felt sad after leaving my family. She reminded me that I had a family in Nashville that also loved me and was awaiting my return. I could barely find the words to express how much peace her words brought me. A few moments later, my boyfriend called. His voice gave me the last boost of reassurance that I needed to hug my family confidently, and begin the journey home. I won’t say that I didn’t come close shedding a few tears…because, well, that would be a lie. However, the excitement that I felt about seeing the people that I had missed for a month was enough to quell my tears.
One of my favorite classes that I’m taking this semester is Abnormal Psychology. I had to read 70 pages in our textbook and, honestly, I really enjoyed it! The human mind has always fascinated me. For a moment, I considered the possibility of adding a Psychology major…then I imagined my dad’s reaction to that declaration, and decided that it would be best not to
In addition to Abnormal Psychology, I am also taking Spanish Conversation (the class that is already beginning to transform my Spanish speaking skills); History of Hispanic-American Literature (which is very interesting – check out a few examples of Aztec poetry here); Business Ethics (for my recently-declared Business Entrepreneurship minor); Medical Terminology (a pre-requisite for Occupational Therapy); and World History since 1500 (this class is every Wednesday night from 5:30-9:30…but only for the first eight weeks).
Overall, it will probably be a busy semester. In the midst of the stress that sometimes comes along with a surplus of work and a lack of sleep, I am remembering to take the time to live life and do the things that make my heart truly happy: The midnight trips to Sonic.
The group study sessions that end up turning into dance parties. The afternoons spent trying on engagement rings at Tiffany’s. The daily walks that we commit to – in rain or shine (or snow!). The laughter. The tears. It’s moments like those that keep me going. Moments that are etched in my memory and will remain for years, even after all else fades away.

Today is an historic day. It’s Inauguration Day and Barack Obama is officially President Barack Obama. I’m not ashamed to admit that I did not vote for him, but something I’ve noticed something lately and feel really encouraged by is the amount of Belmont students, like myself, who are still willing to support and pray for the President–regardless of whether or not they voted for him.
It’s simple actions like THAT that give me hope for America. I have to say that I’ve feel so discouraged by the amount of people tearing relationships over politics, but even those people who radically opposed Obama, for now at least, seem to be aware of the fact that we are ALL Americans, regardless for whom we voted.
E Pluribus Unum
Out of Many, One.