On an April morning, the pitter-patter of raindrops woke me up. The late spring sun had kept its distance and all we had, for now, was the gloom of a cloud-filled sky. As I sat in my room, I noticed a robin basking in the heavenly gift of mizzle. It was perhaps the solitude of my being, that I could compare myself with a lonely bird, or it was my love affair with rain that made me think of this article. We Aggies, especially those away from their families and loved ones, live multiple lives. The purpose of our journey in Aggieland is to grow as well-rounded, and academically successful human beings, and yet, there are some aspects of it that we are bereft of, especially if you are an international or from out of state. Be it the loving support of your family, the tender touch of a loved one, or the shared moments with your school friends, among others, you long for them.

It is quite easy to forget that while you grow into your own, people you love are growing too, and they are growing separately, devoid of your presence- something you may have taken for granted when you were young. I remember speaking to my mother, who lives 9000 miles away, last week. Her mention of “growing old” took me by surprise. It was the first time she’s said that and while in my naivety I always assumed she’ll never get old, it is in fact a reality. The mother I left behind when I moved out of home at the age of 17 to pursue my education in medicine is not the same person. She has since grown to accept me as a person who lives far away from her. The love and care I have received from her has remained the same, perhaps enhanced by the distance, but hearing her speak of time and how growing old made me realize that is a part of human existence.

Nevertheless, it made me think of the moments I missed out with her, my dad, and my sister. This too, perhaps, is part of the human condition. And if this is the case, then I presume pondering this fact makes me a person more accepting of the reality of growing up.



Kathleen and I

To have a partner who understands how challenging grad school can be is great, but to have someone who’s in a grad school across the ocean with the ability and fortitude to handle the distance while still communicating and sharing feelings with you is a blessing. Many Aggies are in this same boat. We have partners, boyfriends, girlfriends, fiancés, wives, and husbands living across the nation and beyond. Unless you have faced it yourself, it's hard to grasp how signigicant these challenges are. Yet, it doesn’t have to be difficult. Clear communication is the first and foremost solution. Instead of expressing those feelings by text, try giving them a call. Talk about work, talk about school, talk about research, and listen. It's not hard, it just takes practice and a genuine interest in your partner. Next, find shared activities-movie nights, FaceTime digital dates, games nights, and many others. Finally, there must be in-person events planned. Plan vacation meets, and shared family gatherings. The distance will enhance the quality of the bond you share and will be a solid foundation for you to build upon once the distance exists no more. Until then, keep working, because the one you love is worth it.

As I wrapped up today’s blog, the robin was joined by a curious squirrel, sprinting across the fence with a fresh green leaf. It reminded me of how far I have come in my Aggie journey. From the torrid winter, filled with trials and tribulations, to a spring filled with life and greenery. As the spring gives way to the summer, the weather will begin clearing soon. The sun will be out again, giving hope and joy to those who need it, and a reason to celebrate for those who can’t wait to finish school in a month. Until then, dear reader, I hope this article will give you a reason to call your loved ones-near or far and share moments of peace and happiness with them. Be well, and shine.