Thursday, April 9, 2015

Another Begins

Satellite Academy has been a new chapter in my life. One where I can work to redeem myself and try to erase my mistakes. But I quickly learned that it's not about erasing your mistakes, but accepting them as a part of you. We're not perfect but we're not our mistakes either. It makes up who we are. We learn from them. I know that thanks to Satellite. I have Steve and Paul to thank for this amazing experience. Words can't begin to describe how incredibly grateful and honored I am that I was chosen to be a part of it. This experience has been nothing but awesome in every sense of the word. I had a chance to immerse myself in rigorous research as well as getting a little R&R. My hero in this trip was Dr. Carlos De La Rosa. Getting to know about him and his research was fascinating. It makes me want to become a scientist. He is definitely an inspiration.
I can hardly fathom the idea that I had a chance to go to Costa Rica. It was different from what I expected. It broadened my view on this world as a student and as a person. I thank Steve and Paul for choosing me to go on this trip. I'm so incredibly happy that you had a chance to see your ideas manifest themselves and I hope that you continue to take students around the world. It proves that education doesn't only take place in a classroom, but anywhere in the world. Even in the most exotic places, there's something to learn. It makes us richer in character and it gives us a chance to explore this beautiful world that not many individuals get to do. To our supporters, I thank you as well. You have given a student, like me, a beautiful experience. It has impacted my life and I will take it and remember it for the rest of my life.
In closing thoughts, this trip was nothing like I thought it would be. I bonded with my fellow scholars and I had a chance to see a different side of them. I also had a chance to see a different side of myself. One that is adventurous and hungry for knowledge. Satellite marked a new chapter in my life and this trip is only one of the many beautiful stories that is written in it. I know that many more will come with these amazing and inspiring individuals.

4 comments:

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  2. Roger, I find this blog very inspirational. It is a powerful moment when one realizes that who we are has been shaped by both good and bad moments in the past and to regret or deny either would ultimately invalidate a part of you. We are absolutely not the sum of our mistakes nor does our past equal our future. I am so happy this trip has been an eye opener for you and admire you as a scholar, person, and writer.

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  3. Dearest Roger, I am so grateful for having taught you. You are one of the most reflective, kindest people I have ever met. How wonderful that you came to Satellite. How wonderful that you got to go to Costa Rica. And how awesome that you had such a wonderful learning experience. You are perfect -- just the way you are.

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  4. Roger, I can't wait to hear more about the trip. Thank you for your reflective words on this amazing trip.

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