Minor Success

Day 28-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

So Monday. Deep clean day. Don't know if I told you that but it means you only have all of two hours to socialize outside of trade / education. I used to dislike these days, but I've learned to appreciate them. Cleaning and being inside all day gives me time to clear my head and relax from all the drama.

We had SSTs (Social Skills Training), like we do every Monday, and the topic was Dealing with Change. This was right before the announcement that personal electronics such as TVs, computers, stereos, etc (cellphones, ipods not included), are going to not be allowed the upcoming year. Oh boy, you should have heard all the screams and tears. The girls are not going to be quiet about this. They feel that they are being forced into rules (like we usually are) becuase of the boys' behaviour. Which is true. There is not a girl in this dorm that abuses the privilage to have personal electronics. But because there are more males, we are not taken into consideration. I believe there is a comprimise that can easily be reached, but not with the way these girls are going about it. They need to write a formal complaint; what the issue is, why they are opposed, and how they believe they could come to a better conclusion where both sides are appeased. Instead these girls are letting their anger get the better of them. I am so grateful that Grandpa taught me how to be professional and how to discuss political issues.

Now the REAL news. I recieved the Student of the Month Award for Dorm 2 (girls dorm) today. It didn't make a lot of the girls really happy, considering I've only been here 26 days. They're calling me a kiss ass. But there is a difference between brown-nosing and knowing how to survive with authority. I will not allow the staff to talk down to me, but I don't yell or get frusterated with the staff either. I remain calm and I explain how I feel I should be treated, and that's with respect. I made it very clear that I do not mind complying to my everyday duties and responsiblities, but I will not do anything I believe is unreasonable. I am willing to listen to their side of the argument as long as they are willing to listen to mine. If I do happen to lose my temper, which I have, I give it time to cool down and later apologize for my behaviour when it is appropriate.
THAT is why I recieved Student of the Month and THAT is the difference between me and the other students in this dorm.