Check Yes or No

If you want a laugh or two, go ahead and check this out. I'm not this bold with boys anymore; probably because it doesn't work. But here's a bold work story from May--

I work in the computer lab in the SWKT (a building on campus) and one of my coworkers challenged me to give a cute guy my number; a bold move which he thought would confirm my other stories of being quite bold with boys. Of course, with my competitive nature I had  to do something about it, even though I wasn't necessarily thinking clearly of the consequences. So I ended up writing him a note that said:

'Hey my name is Jessie! I think you're super nice and pretty cute and I would love to go on a date with you. If you're single, here's my number. Do you want to be my friend? Check yes or no.'

And of course I put a box for him to check (I hope you get the reference). On the front of the note I put: 

'Hey I just met you...'

So I went over to his computer and gave it to him. I figured there were two options for this outcome: 1- he would just put in his headphones and walk out without saying anything, or 2- he would talk to me about the pretty forward note that I just handed him. He had to pass my desk on the way out of the lab. Anyways, he ended up coming up to my desk and asking me if I really wanted him to check the box. I asked him if he had heard the country song and he said he hadn't so I sang the chorus for him:

Do you love me? Do you want to be my friend? And if you do,
Well then don't be afraid to take me by the hand, if you want to.
I think this is how love goes-
Check Yes or No.

Spontaneously bursting into song is not an uncommon occurrence for me. I sing quite often--practically anywhere and everywhere. We continued conversation and then he simply told me he was dating someone.... Ah crap...... Kind of an awkward moment...... But I asked him if we could still be friends and he said of course! So I'm a little bit humiliated, but frankly I'm really glad he had the guts to say something. Most guys probably would have just avoided the situation and walked out. And the next week he still came into the lab and we had a pleasant conversation about music and iPods. And it wasn't awkward at all. I'm grateful for those guys who can embrace awkward, flattering situations, and then continue to treat girls with respect and dignity. This was a pretty bold moment and I've learned that this guy could handle it.

So a few weeks ago a new semester started and once again I was working in the lab and guess who came in? The same guy! Needless to say I actually apologized for this bold and awkward situation that I had put him in. I think I had too much pride in being bold and I'm a little embarrassed by it. I've definitely been humbled since then and I'm grateful for this kind fellow who continues to be a kind friend to me.

I'm  learning that there are different ways to being bold and beautiful. But I think confidence is key when you understand and accept your weaknesses.

-JB

Make a Difference

I traveled a lot today. I'm pretty spent.
As I sat on a plane from Phoenix to Detroit, a really nice lady sat by me. She made my day with just simple conversation. We talked about politics and religion and both together. As we left the aircraft she turned to me and said "Make a difference." This simple statement touched my heart in a way that she will never know.

To her I wish I could say this,

I will make a difference. I decided a few years back that I was going to change the world, but not in the way that many would think. I'm not going into politics, or going to start a non-profit organization that will build hundreds of schools for girls in poverty stricken countries. I'm probably not going to have a million dollars that I can donate to a hospital to help find a cure for cancer or invent some new medical device to save thousands of lives. My name will not be known around the world for fame or glory or recognition of some big accomplishment. But I will be known for being genuine among my family and friends and all those around me. I want to change the world and I will make a difference, but it will be by touching a heart or bringing a smile to just one person. One by one.

I sat by another friend on a flight to Detroit. To him I would say that the Book of Mormon has brought me such indescribable happiness and joy. I hope the time comes when it interests you enough to read it and sincerely ask if it is true. It is an I know it.

Be yourself. You don't have to try to impress anyone when you're just doing your best. They'll like you for who you are and not someone you're trying to be. That's how you'll make a difference. Be your best self.

-Jessie