Hi folks,
As we continue with our research-from-home, I can’t help but reflect on the many privileges that have allowed me to (virtually) work and learn alongside peers and mentors alike. This summer has undoubtedly been far different from what any of us had expected, but I’d like to applaud everyone for getting here as they are now, and for adapting as well as they have been able to. There are a lot of pressing issues that are rapidly developing as each day goes by and I know that many of us are struggling to strike a balance between taking care of ourselves and taking care of our work, the world, and each other. It can be overwhelming–which doesn’t have to be a negative thing, but oftentimes may be.
As much as I feel like my legs are losing functionality from sitting all day and I’m developing brain rot from staring at my laptop sunrise to sunset, the power of digital education never fails to amaze me. Because I am almost constantly plugged in to technology, I am almost constantly learning something new. Whether it has to do with academic literature regarding my work, important worldly updates regarding global health, international politics, BLM protests, and Supreme Court rulings, or personal realizations regarding my social identities and life direction, now more than ever, it seems as though I am becoming a better *insert noun.* I am becoming a better student. I am becoming a better listener. I am becoming a better-informed individual. I am becoming a better advocate. I am becoming a better version of myself.
Now that we are over halfway through with the year, many of us are already weary of the repetitive email openings, leaving us longing for “precedented” and “certain” times that don’t ask to “find us in good health.” I hate to end this update on a repetitive closing, but these gentle phrases are never unwelcome in my books.
Wishing you all well. Stay safe.
Best,
Jakin