Jolynn is a young woman in my math class. She is one of the many of us who populate the open math lab every test day. I usually sit beside Dixie, but she didn't come today, so I sat by Jolynn. Today was Jolynn's birthday. She was telling me that she was a little depressed about turning 30. She then went on to tell me how sad it was that she was 30 and still in school. In an effort to comfort her, I told her that I was almost 26, still in school, and not even married. She quickly informed me that she didn't get married until she was 28. I told her that hearing that made me feel better because I sometimes worry that I will never get married. I will never forget the look that she gave me. She looked at me like I was crazy. She then began to shake her head and asked me, "Why would you ever think that you wouldn't get married?" I just shrugged and looked back at my computer screen. However, Jolynn wasn't going to let me off that easily. "No, no...seriously Erica...why do you think that you won't get married?" I looked at her and began to explain that I used to be really skinny and pretty. I told her that I always had boyfriends growing up. I explained to her that being so pretty was my saving grace because I am so painfully shy. And then I said, "Now I'm chunky and not one of the pretty girls and it is just hard." I have never felt such compassion from someone I barely knew as I did when Jolynn leaned over and hugged me. "Erica, you are really pretty. I mean you really are. I can't believe you worry about getting married! You are really smart too. You are ranked #1 in this class. You are also really nice. You always answer all our questions and laugh at our jokes. You have a beautiful smile. You have nothing to worry about." I was really surprised by the things that she said to me. However, I was even more surprised by the fact that I actually believed her. I will never forget my talk with Jolynn. It just goes to show you that you never know how other people truly see you.In other news, I moved from my apartment into a townhouse. It is all kinds of wonderful! It is a really nice little house with a backyard for Mickey. There are no lame college students, so it is really adult and quiet. AND...I actually had someone leave me muffins welcoming me to the neighborhood. How adorable is that?I have watched Penelope at least five times in the past two days. It is a beautiful fairy tale about finding love through loving yourself. And because I know Jean will read this, I will quote our favorite line from the movie...."I like myself the way I am!"
