It Begins...Again

 

Today, I embarked on another leg of my journey.  My internship with UCP Central PA with the summer of 2013 officially started, and once again, my mind was fraught with anticipation mixed with a little nervousness.  It suddenly dawns on me, though as I write this, the ultimate meaning behind UCP Central PA, not only for me, but also to all that benefit from it.  From my standpoint, the letters UCP signify an air of endless possibilities, and yes, hope (how appropriate) for so many, me included.  I feel so privileged to be a part of this; I only hope that I fulfill my duties to the utmost this summer.  Wish me luck as I continue on this wild and wonderful quest!

Year-In Review

It’s Friday—that time of week again.  After a few days of contemplation, spending time with family and friends and reviewing the past year’s events, it amazes me how far I’ve come in only a short time.  The highlight of my year, I must admit, was my summer internship with United Cerebral Palsy of Central Pennsylvania.  My time spent there reinvigorated my quest to do well in my classes as a college student so that I could make a difference in individuals’ lives, and even hearts.  In my blog and other materials written for the company, I saw my words and actions impacted the lives of such a vast audience; it was an awakening for me to strive harder.  I, again, thank Lynda Bowen and the rest of the UCP staff for seeing my potential and wisdom for signing me on as their summer intern of 2012!  It was an exciting journey.  Merry Christmas to all and I hope your dreams and wishes come true this holiday season as mine did this year!

Hope

Yesterday, as my internship ended, I thought how I compared myself to Emily Dickinson in one of my early blog posts.  The poem on my blog fits me precisely.  Emily Dickinson never penned truer words.  Hope, I discovered, is a thing with wings because it takes you places you never been before.  For me, my internship is proof of that. 

I would like to extend a grateful thanks to the staff at UCP, especially Lynda Bowen, who entrusted me with the internship, and allowed me to be part of their voice for a short time.  As I prepare for another journey this fall, I know I will look upon my college career, and life in general, with a renewed lease.  Most importantly, during my time at UCP, I learned if you follow your dreams, there is no telling what will come.  Just have HOPE!

Believe

Today, I saw an article that reminded me a person’s potential is never known until it is tested and how powerful believing in yourself can be.  Dr. Sheehan was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy at a young age and doctors gave little or no hope she would be a success.  Contrary to their belief, she completed an undergraduate degree in psychology, (with honors), then received her doctorate in the same field.  Reading this article only made me want to strive harder in my life and make a difference to those dearest to my heart, like Dr. Sheehan.  As my internship with United Cerebral Palsy ends, I hope believing in myself caused an impact in someone’s life, (more than one, with a bit of luck) while I had fun along the way.  It’s been a great ride this summer!

Happy July 4th

Today, I considered the significance of Independence Day for me, personally.  As I pondered, I thought about the treatment toward those who were physically or mentally challenged in history throughout the world, particularly, in the United States.  It amazes me that our country has evolved concerning the disabled community, even in my short life.  I’m aware America has many imperfections; but we do live in a country where there is always room to change and improve.  This is not only viable for individuals with a disability, but to everyone who wants to leave a lasting impact on our society.  It’s been over two hundred years and America remains the champion of equal opportunities and cherishes its citizens’ ability to utilize the skills and talents they possess, and rise accordingly.  Astonishing!  Happy July 4th everyone! 

Church

Last night, I had the privilege of attending a Mennonite church service with my friend, Alta.  Once again, as I prepared to go, I had the old, gnawing feeling of being different from everyone else.  This time, though, my curiosity overrode my fear, and I decided it was a great opportunity.  I knew I would remember and treasure it forever.

As we entered the church, heads turned to witness our arrival.  It struck me how these complete strangers smiled and nodded.  They even came up to me to ask my name!  As we proceeded through the service, it amazed me that this community was the same as my own, yet different.  I did not feel uncomfortable, like so many instances.  After, many of the ladies engaged me in conversation.  I have attended many church services throughout the years, but my hunch was correct; I had been presented an opportunity of a lifetime.  I will always remember how these kind people reacted to a complete stranger, and welcomed her with opened arms.  Everybody, I think, should follow their example.

Happy Anniversary

Wow, it’s hard to believe it’s been two weeks since I began my internship at United Cerebral Palsy. I absolutely love it. It amazes me an organization, such as UCP, touches the lives of so many people in so many ways. To be part of that is awesome! I feel a great sense of accomplishment because I dreamed of this moment for years. This is the culminating event in my mind. To be honored with such an opportunity is still astonishing.As one of my first assignments, I read Get Up, Your Bus is Here by Stephen Dantzig. I was in total awe of his determination, and, ultimately, success. In his book, he leaves readers with parting advice, “the risks are greater, so are the payoffs. Don’t fear success.” Even though that is true for all of us, which is especially true for me. Payoffs are much greater than risks. My internship proves that everyday!

Success

Today, I thought about the true definition of success and what it meant for me.  “Success”, according to the dictionary is, “the accomplishment of an aim or purpose”.  That is true in a way, yet not.  To me, success partly means moving forward in life’s journey, (and it is certainly a journey), but that is not all it includes.  As I’ve matured, I have come to the realization success is defined by the difference a person makes in the lives of others.

As I venture on my internship, still another leg of my journey, I wonder if I will fit my own meaning of the word “success”.  Only time will tell. 

My Journey Through the Internship

Today, it officially began; my long awaited and anticipated summer internship with UCP Central PA. I waited for this moment for six long months. Now, it is here. I’m on the edge of a precipice, I thought, as I lay in bed this morning. All my years of hard work as a college student have come to fruition.

After my initial meeting today (my first day on the job, so to speak), I gained a new perspective on the working world and how I, Hope Johnson, have the ability to affect change dearest to my heart and very being.  It dawned on me that I can utilize my skills as a writer to garner change.  The whole thing is mind boggling to me!  One thing I’m committed to:  I WILL AFFECT CHANGE IN THE LIVES OF SO MANY PEOPLE.  What a revelation.  It is something to keep in mind as I journey through the internship.  I hope I’m worthy of such a task!