iHeart my iPhone

I always wanted an iPhone, but never quite thought I'd ever get one. I'd have to save up the money for the phone, switch to AT&T, and figure out a way to pay for the upgraded plan. So I was shocked when an iPhone was practically handed to me on a silver platter.

Here's the story:

I was talking with Dr. Goldstein about the new neuroscience clerkship that we're starting very soon. He said that the medical school would give money to start up the program to buy things for the program. We're going to be putting in a new video monitor in the Yahr library, adding new computers, etc. He asked me if I had a Blackberry or Smartphone of any kind. I didn't. I had the same phone that I had when I was a sophomore in college. He said that we'd get me a Blackberry. I went to make copies of some student evals and thought about the Blackberry. I went back and told him that I appreciated it, but that I was planning on getting on iPhone eventually so getting me a Blackberry wasn't necessary. I'll never forget what and how he said, "Oh, you want an iPhone? We'll get you an iPhone." He said it with this matter-of-fact attitude that I was taken aback.

And tonight I went to the AT&T store near my apartment and got it. The salesman and I went through my plan and protective covers and how the phone works. Then Dr. Goldstein met me there and swiped his card for the full price of the phone. Why would he do this? It has very practical work applications. I can check my email whenever I need and this will allow Dr. Goldstein to better keep in touch with me.

This really shows me what kind of man he is. He is a true mench, which is a Jewish word for a generous person. At least that's what I think it means. He cares about the people works with and wants to see that they are comfortable and happy. He realizes that when employees are taken care of, they tend to be more productive and efficient. I don't know if this was his intention, but he's really earned my loyalty. Not because he bought me something, but because he went out of his way to make sure that I was taken care of. The plan is for him to be reimbursed by the department for the phone, but I don't really think that's going to happen. I think he went into that store tonight with the thought that this phone was going to be paid for at his own expense. And I really appreciate the thoughtfulness and selflessness.

Now the fun begins. I can download apps, watch YouTube, and check my email and Facebook. This phone is really going to change my life. I feel like I've stepped in to the 21st century and I like it.