Total Recall

Random things that you don't about me....as if I haven't divulged enough material about myself...I've made a variation of several memes, so here it goes:

1) I have vivid recollections of childhood memories, dreams, favorite shows and movies, people.. Good or bad, I can recall them as if they happened yesterday. Yet, when it comes to studies, I have a hard time with absorbing the facts. I need to read, and re-read. Then rewrite the notes until it sticks in my brain. When Angel mentioned this habit, I knew that I wasn't alone.

2) My brother and I came to this country as unaccompanied minors. I was 7, he was 5. All the way from India to Texas. It was one of many independent travels, which have deeply affected my curiosity for the world, whether exotic lands or rural American towns..

3) Before coming to America, I studied in a Catholic boarding school (to learn English) which was nestled in the mountains of Southern India. It was a strange period, which was mixed with a love for solitude, as well as sense of abandonment. After six months, I forgot my native language and had a hard time communicating with my family. I was also fascinated with Christian rituals, like mass on Sundays and Holy Communion. Although I've had a Hindu upbringing, I'm always interested in other faiths and their traditions.

4) I lost touch with a good friend because I got tired of doing all the work. It didn't bother me that I was spending lots of money on overseas calls. I think she took this for granted. I also got lost on a greyhound bus when I went to visit her during college. I ended up staying at a stranger's home and the next day, I got on the right bus. It was Groundhog's Day, and the bus happened to pass through the infamous town. Of course this a funny story and everyone laughs at the details. Years later, she was surprised when I failed to meet her. Friendship isn't a one-way street.

5) When I was 16, I got busted for a very rebellious act. I can't tell you what it was, unless I meet you in person. It wasn't a crime. To this day, I still can't believe that I pulled it off. For a nerdy gal with glasses, it wouldn't have been expected.

6) My first love keeps haunting my dreams. As much as I try to forget and repress the memories, he shows up on random nights. The next day, I alternate between daydreaming and crying. Not profuse, just enough drops for renewal.

7) I don't know why I chose to study in Hungary. After 8 years of living in the country, I found out on a random day...that my birthday is also an Independence Day in Hungary. I was also born on the day of Lincoln's assassination. I suppose this explains my love of liberty..."Freedom is always and exclusively freedom for the one who thinks differently."--Rosa Luxemburg (Today's newspaper quote!) Not to say that I'm special or anything; true freedom is more than flying the flag and pledging allegiance. Go outside of the realm and look for the undiscovered beauty/humor in people and places.

8) I had a near death experience three years ago. I truly believe that we're all connected to each other in one way or the other. My friend made a random phone call with a random song in the background. "Celebration" by Kool and the Gang. Let's just say that it has a special meaning for me...

9) As much I as I claim to love independence...I hope to share the joys, sorrows and imperfections with a partner. Time is not a factor. If this dream doesn't happen, I have plans for a sunny retirement village or commune. I just don't like the finger jabbing by others in the community or family..I'm not an alien; please leave me alone for not following traditions. I've had enough of matrimonial ads and resumes. You can't conclude anything by one's accomplishments or how "good" one's family background is. I almost fell for this tagline a few years ago. Thank goodness I put my foot down.

10) I live at home because of school debt and transitions. As if medical school wasn't enough of an adventure, I plan on another round of graduate studies.

11) This week, I made two banana bread loaves because of uneaten bananas. My dad called me "Aunt Bee" as a joke.

12) I have a great sense of humor. Well, you already knew that right?:-) Have a fabulous weekend!