Lost cellphone and finished dissertation

So I lost my cellphone last Friday. At the beginning, I sorta panicked, as I cannot imagine a life without a cellphone. However, as it turns out, it does not make a big difference. I guess I do not have too many calls to begin with. On the other hand, anything can be achieved without cellphones (email, anyone?). Of course, I need to get an unlocked one on ebay or something soon, but again, what's the rush?

I got all the signatures for my dissertation today and it is ready to be submitted this Thursday. My favorite part of the dissertation is its preface, where I can basically say whatever I want to say. So here it is:

Special thanks to my advisor, whose comments in individual meetings have helped me to carry this project forward with lasting enthusiasm. The most important lesson that I have learned from Andy is that a good scholar is first and foremost a good person. This lesson is going to benefit me way beyond the finishing of this dissertation. I also want to thank other faculty members on my dissertation committee: XXXXXX. They have all provided insightful comments, constructive guidance and warm encouragement on earlier versions of this dissertation. My appreciation goes to all participants of the XXXX Workshop. Regular student members of the workshop include XXXXX. They have not only provided feedbacks on my research, but also formed a supportive community beyond the academic realm. I want to thank XXXX for their editorial help on some parts of this dissertation. They made this dissertation less daunting a project for a non-native speaker like me. I also thank the support of sociology department in the past six and half years. I am forever indebted for the intellectual challenges and collegial friendships that I have faced every day in this esteemed program. Of course, despite all the support I have received on this research project, I am solely responsible for any remaining errors.

I also want to take this moment to say “thank you” to people who have made a big impact in my life and who would be thrilled to know that I have finally achieved this life milestone to become a Ph.D. Special thanks to my beloved co-op house Terra. The three years at Terra House were unforgettable, as we shared meals, house chores, and life experiences with a sense of humor and charm. I want to thank many friends who have offered support when I was down and helped me emerge from distress stronger than ever. Thanks to the family of Victor, Rachel and Justice: you mean a lot to me. Thanks to Connie and Ed, who hosted me on the Thanksgiving Day when I freshly arrived in the States and have been treating me like part of their family ever since. Thanks to three influential teachers in my life: XXXXX. XXX has ignited my love of writing, XXX opened my heart to the arts, and XXX made me believe that I could accomplish everything, including becoming …… a modern dancer. Finally, a big thank-you to my family. In my rebellious years, my family was a place to run away from, as I was eager to establish my own place in the world. Now, thousands of miles away, every day passing by is a time when I realize more and more of their unconditional love that has shaped me all along. I dedicate this dissertation to all of you, and I know that you will be proud.