edmonton

    I have watched the decor at Cardiac Outpatient go from Christmas to Valentine’s day to St Patrick’s Day. I’ve heard code blue alarms fill the hospital and watch as the crash team hurries to 114th entrance where I’m sitting, felt my adrenaline bump up a few notches as I observe. I’ve seen the relief on people’s faces when they come to U of A and are overwhelmed at the huge place, but the screeners tell them a volunteer will take them to their appointment. I’ve watched people at the Cross Cancer be terrified of what their test results will show, and I’ve laughed and joked around with ones that seem like they couldn’t care less. I’ve done headshaves for people that clearly are struggling to let all their hair go, and fit wigs for people who want close to what their real hair is, or ones that this is their chance to go crazy and wear whatever they want!  I’ve been thanked profusely at Food Bank, God bless you, they say. I’ve also watched ones there that really seem like they need more than food. Maybe we were the only Bible they will ever see. I’ve argued on which is better- Ivan the Terrible, Humphrey, or Betty, but nobody seems to see my point.  I’ve ridden the LRT and seen many homeless or others, who if they could see themselves, might wish they had done things differently. And I thank God for allowing me to have the life I have. 

  I’ve had amazing people to work with and get to know. Security guards make great people to hang out with. 

  I’ve seen Edmonton covered in snow, survived a -30*C winter in Alberta. I’ve seen beautiful sunrises and pretty night skies. I longed for home and loved it there. I had friends that loved me in spite of my gaping needs. I’ve cried and laughed, talked and sang. I’ve read about 50 books in 6 months. I’ve had my horizons broadened even when I wasn’t really looking for them to be broadened. I’ve learned we don’t all do things the same way and that’s okay. I’ve also came home from there. And I’m glad I went.