Graduation

At the beginning of this year, I took a personality test.

I wasn’t at all surprised to find out that my type is mediator.
Never expect me to side with you. I’m always on the other side, and when I am on the other side, I’m with you.

Like all good personality tests, the website included a section called “Mediators You May Know.”

I was surprised to find J.R.R. Tolkien, Frodo Baggins, and Arwen on the list. I was also excited, because The Lord of Rings was on my professor’s syllabus, which meant I would read the novels in a few months. (I had seen the movies, but it had been a long time)

Little did I know that Arwen isn’t even in the books. I mean, she exists, but her role is minor. Therefore, I could not identify with her character.

I also didn’t feel very Frodo-esque while reading. He’s more mission-minded than I am. It’s also hard to tell what’s him and what’s the Ring.

Finally, one can only assume so much about Tolkien by simply reading what he writes. Although, I am now interested in reading his biography to see if I can spot any similarities.

It wasn’t until The Two Towers that I finally discovered the character most like me:

Treebeard. 

I am not altogether on anybody’s side, because nobody is altogether on my side . . .

I’m also not very hasty. 😉

But by the very end of The Return of the King, I finally observed a bit of Frodo in me. It’s the way he suffers silently. Although I’ve never carried a burden so great, I typically struggle alone. I  won’t share what afflicts me until I’ve reached the other side.

**

I also have a final thesis update for you all.

I FINISHED.

Yesterday, I graduated and earned my M.A. in English.

Again, I feel similar to Frodo. The Ring is destroyed. My academic quest accomplished, but I feel quite sad. An age ends, but I know a new one begins.

I’m excited to get back into blogging. While writing my thesis, I abandoned my blogging schedule, but now I’m ready to get back on track. To start, I’ll be posting new content every Friday. 🙂

Thank you all for being patient with me and lending me your support.

Happy Friday!

💜 T. Shaw