One of the coolest things about visiting London when I was younger were the street performers. Particularly, the old man on Picadilly Circus that used to take a piece of wire and bend it into a desired name or phrase. It was magical, really. I would stand there mesmerized by his unique art and the rain tapping down on my shoulders. Lingering, if only for a moment or two, I would watch him transform this simple substance from nothing into something; only to be snapped back into reality by the gentle tug of my on-the-go grandmother.
Here I am years later staring at one of the “I <3 You” frames on my shelf. It’s currently holds a photo of one of my best friends, Amy Wysocki, and I. We were in middle school at the time…In fact, I don’t think I have ever told her this but before class had started, I saw her name on a piece of paper and thought she was Japanese. That was…right up until this American girl, blond hair, green eyes walked and introduced herself, “Hi, I’m Amy Wysocki”. Oh, come on, Kawasaki…Wysocki? You totally thought she was Asian too.
We became friends and after high school, our lives led us to different universities and ultimately on different paths. But as the years pass, our friendship only seems to get stronger and tighter. And although we may not talk all the time or even frequently due to hectic schedules, when we do it’s as if nothing ever changed. Because at some point, we always manage to find our way back to each other. If only for a moment.
Here I am, days away from her University of Florida Veterinary Medicine graduation and freaking out. Me, imagine that, freaking out! I mean, what exactly does one give a new Doctor?
Cake, flowers, muffins, animals, jewelry, photos, money, lab coat? No. Too…simple (for me, anyway). She is after all, the first Doctor in my family.
After much thought, I knew what I had to do (and yes, I’ll give her money and a lab coat as well).
So this is my note to you, the newly labeled Dr. Wysocki, bent in wire, created by the old man on Picadilly Circus, for all the (internet) world to see (if they wish).
I am so proud of you.