Intermittently, throughout the last few weeks, I've contemplated the purpose and any meaning as so why I'm here - what value is there for being in Belize? It's a chaotic world full of corruption, political chaos, poor infrastructure, and lack of motivation to better the Belizean life. Why am I here? I probably could benefit poorer countries, but, of course, living would definitely be harder and unbearable for me to sustain for two years. What the hell am I doing?!
Then...yesterday, I listened to President Obama's speech announcing his deployment of thirty thousand soldiers to Afganhistan in the next month. In the speech he noted the global purpose of America and mentioned the Peace Corps volunteers as a meaningful end to that goal of peace and betterment of the global family. That hit home for me...that I was contributing to the good of our country and to the global community. I went to work the next day and found that my counterpart and staff appreciated the tools I created for them to move forward the cohesive and continuity of process to the organization and to the villages.
Hi Sanday,
ReplyDeleteMy first attempt at a comment didn't get posted; hope this isn't a duplicate. I'm sorry the holiday proved to be a bit depressed. We celebrated very quietly in the Seattle area. We met Dennis' brother, Don, and went to seafood restaurant. Then we went to see "Christmas Carol." Not too traditional but nice and quiet. As to your purpose....I have told your story of selfless volunteering to many of my friends; all agree that you are amazing. I think we tend to focus on the big picture rather than acknowledging the day-to-day successes. I'm sure you are making a huge difference in the lives of those you work with. Do you have a mailing address? I would love to send pictures and a longer letter. I hope the remaining holiday season goes well. Take Care, Love, Lynda
Hi Sandy!
ReplyDeleteYou have encouraged me by taking a huge step to help other people who you don't even know and who live in another country. Often times I think we want to see things change immediately, but we may never get to see it. It may take many more years before people start to see change, but because of what you are doing, change is possible. Keep up the hard work. I'm sure your two years will go by with a blink of an eye. Take Care Sandy-sama. Aaron
Hi Sandy-lou! I'll never forget spending a whole summer in Mexico and when I got back to the US I had my dad take me straight to a MacDonalds! It's hard to get settled in a foreign country - especially around the holidays but...please know there are a lot of us who LOVE you like mad and respect SO MUCH the work you are doing to make this world a better place. xxooJerry
ReplyDeleteThanks, guys, for the encouraging comments - I guess I just miss everyone and all the memorable times. Believe it or not, I am finding new friends - one of the Peace Corps staff invited me to their home for holiday cheer this Sunday, my San Antonio family wants me to come for Christmas. There's an office party tonight with the board of directors of the districts village councils - that should be fun.
ReplyDeleteHi Sandy,
ReplyDeleteThank you for this post! Though it's tough being without family and friends around you during the holidays, remember that you DO HAVE LOTS OF family and friends who are thinking about you! And I'm proud of you for giving your time and energy to a good cause, for helping to make the world a bit of a better place, for getting to know other people, like in Belize, and letting them get to know you! You are making a great difference for good! now, what is your email address? or your land address? if possible, i'll send a Christmas card to you! take care, barbara