Saturday, April 4, 2009

Reflections and Thoughts

I've known I wanted to join Peace Corps for years. But it's not until you actually get settled in another country, until you have a house and a job and friends and a community that is so completely removed from your life back in America that the 27 month commitment really sinks in. There have been some pretty high highs and several desperatly low lows thus far, and some mornings you can't help but think, 'what am I doing here?', but all in all I'm really glad I'm here.

Still, especially when things happen back in the US, I wonder if it's right for me to be here, if the questions I'm asked weekly by my Tongan community aren't a bit valid. Other than wanting to know why I'm not married, most people usually ask me why I left my family and friends, why I'm so far from home. I've thought a lot about this, particuarly this week, and I'm finally able to start reconciling my thoughts and feelings. There are going to be important events, both joyful celebrations and tearful goodbyes, that I miss as a result of being here. But as long as some part of me can still be there, and I know I'm making a difference or doing a bit of good, it's worth it.

All of my group is in Nuku'alofa (the name of the capital, which translated means "the abode of love"- isn't that beautiful) right now for training, and I'm hoping we come out of this mini (and much needed) break and time together reenergized and ready to tackle the challenges we've all come up against.

In addition, I am flying to Australia on Monday for my first vacation. I am meeting up with Eric and we're planning some epic roadtripping and sightseeing that will take us from the city of Melbourne, up to Uluru, and over to Adelaide over the course of two weeks. I am so excited to see Eric again- I could really use some time with a good friend right now- and to finally visit Australia, the land of kangaroos and tim-tams. I probably won't be posting for a few weeks, but I will be sure to compile a massive summary upon my return.

Know I'm thinking of all of you, and that I would have given anything to be in DC this past week. Also, to those undergrad ultimate players, especially seniors, who may read this blog, best of luck at Sectionals this weekend- I'm cheering for you!