Another late update and again I offer my apologies. The last month I have been focused on finishing training and getting moved in and accustomed to my site. The last two weeks of training were constant sessions that really required nothing but my presence. These two weeks were both fun and numbing. I found myself often with my friends, but also wary about the coming transition which has been mentioned to be the most difficult of all a volunteers service.
Swearing in was anticlimactic and nothing really set in until a few days into site. I moved in to my permanent site a week ago and this has been the longest week I have experienced since I left the states. I was hoping that freshness of the city would help pass the time, I was wrong. The time has started to take a toll on me and I feel as though I’m going through my first “down” moment here.
The difference is not necessarily the lack of friends to visit with but all throughout training every day we were kept busy with something. I never noticed the passing of time until I came to site. Also, things have really started to sink in. The two years has come into perspective and being completely alone for a long period of time is not something I’m completely comfortable with yet.
However, in contrast I think I have one of the best site placements. I was lucky enough to be a walk away from some of the nicest beaches in the country and in a city large enough to keep me occupied when there is nothing else to do. I couldn’t be happier that I brought my guitar now that I have this free time on my hands.
Work now is going a little slow because of elections and other various issues that steal attention away from things that I can help contribute. Because of the absence of work in my main post I have sought it out elsewhere. I plan to help an NGO here in town with camps they sponsor for underprivileged children by being a camp counselor.
With more free time I hope to be able to update this blog more often, I know I have heard from you that check it often to see if I have updated and I hope that I will be able to do a better job at keeping up in the future.
2 comments:
Dear Michael,
Thanks for taking the time to write and letting us know how things are going for you. I can relate a little bit to your feeling of being alone, as it sounds similar to the time I was new to Ames, Iowa--not knowing anyone. Please hang in there, and be good to yourself.
Kathy and I got to spend Friday night and much of Saturday with Rob and Ashley, who came to visit. We had sourdough pancakes yesterday morning, and wished you and Aaron could have been with us. We talked about you anyway! :)
I have always admired your ability to adapt and take life as it comes to you. We are very proud of you, and what you are doing! Here's a virtual hug for you {{{Michael}}}. Know that we are hugging you in spirit.
Love,
Dad
Dearest Michael,
I have waited a bit to post anything, hoping to bring some enlightening advice for you about some of the things you are feeling, but feeling rather helpless with my inability to express how much I wish you weren't so far away, that the ocean wasn't so large. It's a "momliness" to want to hold your kids, give them hugs when things are a bit unsure and discouraging. Please know I'm holding you in a big hug in my heart, and that you are in my thoughts when I arise or go to bed, and many times during the day! You have accomplished so much in so little time, having to go at a slower pace is a definite challenge.
Your willingness to seek out places to help others says so much about you Michael, the strength of your character and the size of your heart....I am so very proud of you.
Love you big guy!
Kathy
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