Other than that, most of the people here are extremely emotionally reserved. I'm becoming more and more convinced that liberation theology hasn't made it to Aberdeen because it involves too many feelings for life here.
This afternoon as I was stepping out onto High Street, I nearly ran into one of the university chaplains. "McKenna! You look really bright, and happy, especially for a student in the middle of exams." If I'd been in America, I would have said something like, "Thank you! It's because you're looking at a final exams champion...I totally killed my doctrine final. It was AWESOME. How are you doing?"
But I'm here, so I said, "Oh thank you. I've enjoyed my last couple exams. You look very well too." I also recently accidentally frightened a Scottish friend with my excitement about eating Mexican food in a couple weeks. She told me to calm down. Since then, I've been trying really hard to be exceptionally low-key and boring. As a result, emotions have been exploding out of me - I laughed so hard I almost cried during a meeting, and I'm completely anticipating tears the first time I eat Mexican food back in the states.
In light of all that, I want to introduce you to Jake the Dog:
Jumping against the back door of my aunt and uncle's house is usually where you'll find him, as excitement over a squirrel sighting overwhelms his tiny body. Don't let his size fool you. He is not a lap dog, and is the opposite of mellow. The only time he's allowed me to hold him was in the vet's office, and I suspect that it was because he thought being in my arms would protect him from shots and ear drops. He is an avid squirrel and bird chaser, and would never abandon a chase - not even for a cheerio. He's tiny, but everything he does is big - his barking, chasing, and his impressive ability to occupy half of a couch when lounging.
Several times this semester, I've wanted to stand up and yell, "CARE. SHOW EMOTION" in the middle of a debate or discussion, or on the hundredth day of misting rain - because the rain here is as timid and reserved as the people. The South is king of passive-aggression, but debate can still get heated, people get angry, cry, and exhibit real joy when they feel it.
Jake the Dog is just one of many non-mellow things I'm looking forward to with excitement (though not too much excitement - I don't want to scare anyone here again).
Two weeks until Memphis!
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