So today I arrived to the helpdesk as usual but my first half hour was anything but. A man named Harvey was having problems burning photos on a CD and had stopped in for help. Well, I started doing my usual troubleshooting thing and before too long found myself engaged in a conversation about his experiences as a smokejumper in the Civilian Public Services. By the end of our short visit I had not only helped solve his problem but made a new friend too. Sometime I’m going to have to visit the Goshen Archives and see some of the photos and documentation that he is starting to put there. I know that I don’t push or contemplate my beliefs in non-violence nearly enough and hearing even tiny bits of stories from past generations of people who’s convictions I truly admire was a great experience.

On another note I attended the local performance of the Vagina Monologues yesterday as well. When I first saw posters for the event last year I was somewhat taken aback and never really even considered going. However, after attending this year I must say that it was worth the watch. The Monologues are one of the focal points of V-Day, a movement intended to raise awareness about violence against women and one day achieve victory over abuse. The Monologues themselves were performed by 15 or so students and ranged from insightful and moving to over the top and a bit uncomfortable for me. Regardless, the event made me think more about my views on women’s rights and that alone made the event worthwhile. Oh and the GC Women’s World Choir performed an amazing piece too. Gave me chills on several occasions! So yeah, if there’s one near you I would recommend it, just be prepared for some pretty frank discussions about women’s "down theres."

And in case you were wondering, artwork for this post includes my submission to digikitten’s Febuary Twisted Pixel and Beth’s Valentine to me I tell you what, I slave away for hours trying to improve my "design skills" and then she just goes and shows me up! YAY