Because the evidence says I'm a swot, I'm powering my way through the first paper of my graduate psychology degree; now about halfway through week three, even though week two has just started. At this rate, I should finish quite early, although that's not too unusual. It gives one additional time to discuss interesting corner cases. Apropos, I have written a very broad sweep entitled "Initial Hypotheses On Emotions, Trauma, and Happiness", which basically is about what is written on the tin. As a set of hypotheses, the next step is to conduct a literature review and test against the evidence. Yes, it does sound like I'm already moving towards another research thesis. But I have a life project to conduct in this regard, and I will see it through.
I visited the Blood Donor Centre yesterday; it's a place of some emotional importance and connection to me, being where
lei_loo committed to each other for life and for effective altruism nearly two years ago. "Meeting at the Blood Bank is actually quite a sweet rendez-vous", I wrote at the time. "Most people wouldn't consider it very romantic... In many ways it is the perfect place for us. Simple acts of human kindness, coupled with technology, to save lives". "We have the rest of our lives to make up for lost time", was the response. But circumstances meant that this visit I was by myself. I managed quite well whilst I was there, but broke into tears when I left the centre. Goodness knows what the young tradie in the lift thought to a man my age in such a state. Whilst many are hardened by age I find that I am becoming increasingly sensitive. Despite what I'm going through at the moment, I'm booked to go again in a fortnight.
Finally, the past few days have witnessed four very enjoyable social experiences. My regular catch-up with
caseopaya involved watching a German superhero film, "Freaks – Du bist eine von uns", which explored some great themes of control, madness, responsibility, and community. The second was a visit to the Botanical Gardens with new friend Tiffaney D., who lives in the broad neighbourhood. I am impressed by her sharp mind, sense of organisation, and appreciation of natural beauty. The third was another visit by caseopaya, this time with Damien B for the irregular cheesequest and gaming; I managed a truly wicked move in Munchkin, followed by the lightly educational Sunda to Sahul. Finally, dinner (or rather, 7pm brunch) last night with Ayna and Ryan H., where we discussed all manner of issues related to mental health and relationships, fields which Ayna is developing professionally.
I visited the Blood Donor Centre yesterday; it's a place of some emotional importance and connection to me, being where
![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-userinfo.gif)
Finally, the past few days have witnessed four very enjoyable social experiences. My regular catch-up with
![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-userinfo.gif)