Forest, Trees, etc.

Feeling work permit jitters today. I had to fax off copies of my degree certificate and proof of affiliation with a professional organization. Made me think, hmmm Border and Immigration Agency didn't stamp my application with a great big yes on first glance, and my charms will be useless against them if they decline me. Processing has slowed due to floods. Spent the afternoon trying to figure out how Border and Immigration Agency was feeling about my application and trying to drum up alternatives. Almost a total waste of energy. It was very difficult getting inside their heads, but after reading the agency website 5,594 times I decided this is probably pretty standard proof-seeking esp. in light of recent failed terrorist attacks. Not sure how much longer this will take, but 88% of cases are decided within 2 weeks.

So you can see I've been busy worrying, panicking, and worrying some more re: my lack of control in this situation. Fortunately I have developed a method which helps me to deal rationally with circumstances I find unpleasant: enter the Rite of Passage. By labeling these difficult phases 'Rite of Passage,' suddenly I have a tribe with members who have seen it all before and know it will get easier. Have some perspective, they say. You are not so special. Your stress is the same as everyone else's and no more important. Ahhh what a relief it is to be insignificant.