I'm 23, and there are a lot of things I don't know. What to do with my life, for example, is one. I don't know what to do between now until the next round of dietetic internship applications in September. I don't know where I'm going to take grad classes this fall. I have no idea what it is exactly I want to be "when I grow up."
There is one thing I do know, however. I want to help other people. Sounds simple enough, right? And truthfully, it really is just as easy as it sounds...if not, easier.
As of last Monday, I am now officially a Nutrition Educator for Operation Frontline, a Share Our Strength project that provides a strong foundation in nutrition, cooking, and household budgeting by teaching low-income families how to prepare healthy, low-cost meals. I have been assigned to work with teens for the "The Power of Eating Right" curriculum. Can you tell I'm really excited about it? No? Well, I am. BIG TIME. I didn't have to do this. Completely voluntary. But I wanted to, and therefore, I will.
I led a nutrition session in which I reviewed the new food guide pyramid and portion sizes. Even shared tips on what can be used to measure portions. A deck of cards, for example, is about 3oz of meat. We made pizza using english muffins, spaghetti sauce, mozzerella cheese and fresh vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms and tomatoes. But the best part of my day? Knowing that these kids dreamt about this the night before. Knowing that they all wanted to come back and learn more. Knowing that I got to know all their names, and what kind of food they like to eat. I've never felt so alive, so appreciated, so helpful.
On Monday, May 5, 2008, I, Monica, made a difference and now have every intention to continue doing just that.
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