Blog 2. The love of learning

 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.  -Jeremiah 29:11

Looking at the calendar, it's hard to believe how the time has flown by. It feels like just yesterday we were going to orientation and trying to remember everyone's name. Today I would genuinely call each person a friend and I’ve loved being able to experience moments together.

Seeing how time has gotten away from me, I’ve had to remind myself not to waste any chances. I recognize that being in my position is a privilege that not many people get. I want to leave this internship with as many powerful and impactful experiences as I can so that I can go back home and use what God has given me to put towards his work.

I often remember a phrase that my Dad always says. Whenever I would express grievances about school he would respond, “learn to love learning”.  At the moment, that phrase didn’t make much sense but as I grew up I can see the wisdom in it. The love of learning turns every moment into an opportunity to grow, expand your understanding, and to develop more as an individual. During my time here, I want to do just that.

Specifically, with my internship with the National Disability Rights Network, I want to further my understanding of healthcare. I’ve always known that I want to be a physician for underserved populations but I’ve never considered those with disabilities. I see my placement with NDRN as a call from God to recognize that He is calling me to represent and care for all of His people. I’ve learned so much not only about disability rights but about advocacy and how lack of it can cause life-threatening changes for minority populations.

I feel God calling me to go deeper in my understanding and love of his people. It’s truly beautiful to see the diversity of his creation. We all look different, have different abilities, and experience life differently but at the end of the day, we are all made equal under God.

I can genuinely say that I have loved my time here so far. I love that you can go to the market and try foods from every corner of the world. I love that my neighbors are the supreme court justices. I love that I get the chance to sit in the same room as the people that write the laws of our country. I love that I can learn from and work beside people with so much wisdom and intelligence. I love we are here together celebrating life and making memories. Most importantly I love that it is so clear that this is where God wants us to be.

Mariam Zaki

Blog 2

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