Audrey on "timing is everything"

As I am sitting here pondering what on earth I would write my blog post about this week, the teacher I have been working with for six weeks now, Ms. Rene stated to me, “If you are exposed to something long enough you will get use to it.” Talk about timing.

Timing is everything. I have always known this, yet have been reassured of it multiple times in South Africa. It seems like every time I think something here, such as my safety is secure I am reminded immediately that it is always important to be aware of my surroundings. Or every time I believe that this country is stricken by poverty and it is a misfortune to so many, I spend time with an amazing South African who restores my confidence in the possibilities of change. It seems like time has been in my favor.

Yesterday though was a different reminder that timing is everything. Throughout the entire day I was planning on going to Main Road to grocery shop and complete some schoolwork at a café. This was my plan leaving Christel House up until we were dropping off the first house and about to make my way to Main Road when I decided the heat had gotten the best of me and there would be absolutely no way I could stand being in jeans any longer causing me to take my ride back to the house. The minute I got home I set my intentions to change into my bathing suit and jump in the pool my mood became even more enthused when I walk in the back when a lot of my housemates were too sitting by the pool relaxing. As I walked to my room my phone vibrated I looked down and saw an email with a headline along the lines of “Ph.D Neag School of Education.” The email I have been waiting for for almost three months now. My heart dropped. Another housemate was talking to me but I could not tell you what on earth he was saying to me. As I began reading, “I wish to extend…” Oh god where is this going, my heart dropped lower and my hands began to shake. “…my sincerest…” Stomach drops now. “…congratulations on your SELECTION FOR ADMISSION….” I GOT IN! I slowly began to tell Ethan about the news and suddenly everyone knew and was immediately congratulating me. Just ten minute ago I was planning on spending my afternoon alone meaning I would be finding out this news by myself. But within a split second decision I was home and able to celebrate it with the people I enjoy the most and experience excitement and shock with the most understanding people ever. Although my reaction was probably not what I would have expected three months ago, I was still excited and was very appreciative that I had these people to commemorate this moment with..

Audrey with her awesome housemates: Sharon, Ethan, Patrick, Carl, Anna, JR & Ainsley

So this blog post was not in intentions to write about Neag or even timing. But as this entire post is about timing I believe there is a reason why Ms. Rene said this statement to me.