For six years, I have really only driven within a 30 mile radius from my home to work, to the mall,Yohan's pediatrician and dentist, to the park. My previous manager did not know that every time he sends me to do doctor detailing, I have been praying so hard not to be involved in any type of accident. I could not do a parallel park when driving an SUV. And in doctor's offices where there were parking meters, you have to parallel park. If I could just say no to him, I would. But I have to do my job, so I did it, no questions asked, and prayed hard. For those concerned, we were involved in a car accident on St. Patrick's Day in 2007. I have never forgotten about it. And everyone thought I was the one driving. There goes my self esteem in my driving skills. I will talk about diversity in a little while. How people form a perception on a person just because of his gender, race or appearance.
Today, I conquered my fear of driving in a busy freeway. Living in Monterey county, I had the privilege of driving from home to work and still enjoy nature. And the traffic was not so bad. To my right was the view of the Pacific Ocean and the shores of Seaside State Beach. Sometimes, I would even see dolphins. Just a glimpse of the ocean kissing the skies towards the horizon gives me a euphoric feeling. Also, that we're blessed. Imagine yourself living in that area.
Driving on the 99 freeway today made be a bit anxious and emotional. No more sand dunes on my right, no more Pacific Ocean, no more hoping for a dolphin or sea otter to show up. Instead hundreds of cars ahead of me, trying to get to work as well. My consolation, Sacramento is the City of Trees. I appreciate the thousands of colorful trees that surround me. It's Springtime! I can see the city's beauty.
Change is the only thing constant in this world. I'm glad I conquered my fear, I'm happy I'm in a new environment. This is another opportunity to show my good side. Out with the negative. I have learned that negativity eats you up inside. No good comes out of it. Grateful for my previous District Supervisor for putting in good words for me. It made my hiring process quicker. I'm blessed to have found a daycare for Yohan literally across the street from where we live. Thankful for Jeff's relatives, for they can pick up Yohan when Jeff and I are still at work.
Today at work, I learned about diversity and inclusion. It's not just about race, ethnicity or whether english is your primary language. It's something much more profound. That includes, your sexuality, education, religion and many more. I learned not to assume a character or a trait of a person just because of his appearance. Just because I'm asian and female,does not mean I lack skills in driving. When I see a fast oncoming car, even though it's on the other lane.. I don't trust that the person saw me, that's why I would press my brakes, it's called defensive driving. I always want to be on the safe side, because I do not want to experience the trauma I had in 2007. And I value my life as well as the other drivers around me.
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