Kicking Goals

The planets must be all aligned this week because within the space of less than 24 hours, I got two ego-boosters.

The first was an assignment I handed in almost two months ago and only just got us our grades yesterday. I wasn't expecting much at all, I wasn't particularly proud of the work and to be honest, thought it was full of cliches. To my surprise, I got a Distinction! Which, with their crappy shitty grading system (whatever happened to A's, B's and C's?), is the highest mark. The equivalent to an A+. I was stoked. When it was handed back, I had to be all nonchalant about it because my friend got a Merit - which is still nothing to be sniffed at. As soon as I left though and was walking along the street to my car, I read what the lecturer had written (oh, just stuff like 'fluid, insightful, a pleasure to read, professional.' You know.) and I couldn't stop myself from grinning and let out a little woop every few steps. I felt on top of the world.

This morning, I came into work (I work on Saturdays now which I pretty much resent with every fibre of my being) and there was an email waiting for me. This is it, with no alterations:

The Management Group met yesterday and have asked that I pass on their compliments and congratulations to you on doing such a great job for us at Reception.

It is wonderful knowing we have someone that represents our company in such a friendly and professional manner.

Check me out, all professional and shit. It kind of made my day.

All joking aside, it is so nice to be complimented and recognised and rewarded. Getting the Distinction (A+, goddammit. As the tree-hugger said, Distinction doesn't have the same impact as saying A+) was validating. Just helps with the knowledge that the choice I made was the right one. It gives me much-needed motivation to keep going, work harder, do better.

P.S. The comments my lecturer made on my assignment are totally stuck up on the fridge in the kitchen for everyone to see and admire. Just like a five-year old, displaying their gold star.