amazing what a few words can do

As some of you may have been able to tell from the tenor of my posts yesterday, I did not have what I would call a Good Law School Day. I was frustrated with my inability to intuitively grasp these concepts, and while I like most of the students in my class, there were a few people yesterday who really got on my nerves.

Today I expected much of the same, except worse because Tuesdays are my long days and I woke up tired from studying late last night. It's grey and dismal out, I tripped on the steps as I walked into the building, and then I almost missed the elevator.

However, at the last minute, one of the men in my section already in the elevator saw me running and held it for me. That already brightened my day. But then -- and I can't stop grinning about this whole episode -- he said to me, "You're in my section, right?". And I said I was.

"You know, I always love what you have to say. Some people just talk and talk, but I always listen to what you're saying and think, man, how did she come up with that? That's a great point."

I immediately turned bright red, but stammered out, quite honestly, "Thank you!! That is the nicest thing anybody has ever said to me in law school!"

The other woman in the elevator, who isn't in my section at all, gave me a big smile.

He then got a crease of concern in his forehead and continued, "That is you I'm thinking about, right? Sitting down in front, second row, 3 in from left?".

I agreed that was where I sat. (Can you imagine how awful it would have been if it hadn't been me he was talking about?)

"Yes," he continued, "I just wanted to tell you that." And he smiled at me.

So here is to N., who made my day and quite possibly my week. And, in honor of N., I have decided that I am going to find another student, whom I think makes really good contributions, and tell her that as well.