Few days....few months?

I'm back! It's been a while. Today, Justice Sonia Sotomayor was elected as the nation's first Hispanic Supreme Court justice, and third women to serve on the highest court. There was a lot of buzz surrounding her, but I was not too caught up on the frontrunners to know enough about them.

Given America's shifting demographics, appointing Sotomayor is an added bonus on top of her diverse experiences on the Appeals and Curcuit court. I texted Antonia this morning to tell her (since she is an aspiring Latina judge) and she was elated! It's mesmerizing to think the hot-button issues of today: immigration, gay rights, climate change, education, and healthcare will see it's place upon her lap. Her humble roots inspire me her connectedness with her culture allows younger Latino/as to aspire after her.

North Korea conducted its second nuclear test. According to Dean Gallucci, they want two things: a closer seat in Washington to appease itself as a "legitimate" regime, and for economic and social incentives. I side with Myung-baks tough-luck policy on North Korea. After Roh's death and the new bombings within days of each other, Korea is uptight and axtiously awaiting the almost lifeless UN resolutions to pass through the security council. It's truly a shame that he had to carry so much burden.

One thing Dr. Gallucci said will always remain with me. Advocating Korea on behalf of America. As an American, I often lose sight that my first priority and objective is protecting America and Americans. It's good to have ethnic pride, but not at the expense of the nation and the people that fought for my rights to live with life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness ( I love Will Smith!!). The cultural distinction between my mom and I serves avery fine line. As an American herself, she seldom sees herself as one, because of the anguish and hardnesss this country has imposed on her with her limited language and opportunities. Still, she's becoming more American daily: as she goes to school with access to financial aid, as her and I speak about our values and why she immigrated here, and mostly to see her aspire to what she wants to be. Only America gives her that opportunity in an unlimited way.

I have my goals set high. Bill Clinton talks about the intricacies of living in D.C.: his access to Senator Fulbright and the Foreign Relations Commmittee, his journey through Student government while a student of my future school, the Edmund Walsh School of Foreign Service, and the laughs and loves he encounters daily through his willingness to live life to the fullest each day.