One year

Flashback to exactly one year ago: I’m sobbing on the airplane completely overwhelmed by the feeling of loss after having said goodbye to my family and Conner.  On one hand I was devastated but on the other hand, I was embarking on a dream. To decide to leave for Peace Corps was one of the easier decisions I have made, I was bright eyed and bushy tailed, ready to change the world but actually leaving my family and boyfriend at the airport and the 6-8 months that followed were the hardest times I’ve gone through and what I’ve heard from other volunteers more hardships are ahead but I am so completely happy that I’m here.

When I heard the phrases, “Peace Corps is the hardest job you’ll ever love” or “You’ll experience your highest highs and lowest lows” I just thought  guh, how cheesy! But in all honestly I don’t think there is a better way to describe Peace Corps in a more concise phrase. I have been humbled by the poverty in Peru but also by the incredible kindness shown by the people who live here. I have gawked at the beautiful landscape of Peru but have also rolled my eyes at how much garbage contaminates the beauty of this country.  I was taken in by two incredibly loving Peruvian families who treat me as one of their own and one I have to thank especially for giving me the best birthday I’ve ever had.  I’ve also had a few brief moments of “I could go home right now” or “What the hell am I doing here?” Right now all I can think is, “wow there is no way I could come home right now, but I would sure love a bloody mary.”  Before arriving in Peru, I had this idea of “big changes” and “saving people” but honestly the most change I have seen in the past year is in myself.  A year ago if you would have told me that I would be training for a ½ marathon I would have laughed in your face, nor would I have believed you if you said that I was teaching 9 classes in my high school and also had two other projects going on… I’m still quite awkward and sometimes a little shy but I have grown out of my timid-ness little by little. I have learned that Peace Corps isn’t about saving an entire community but it’s about celebrating the small successes-  I do hope that for the next 14 months I can that little bit of difference in the lives of the Peruvians I encounter but if not, I know I have been changed for the better at that will be enough.

I don’t think I could be here one year later without the unwavering support from my friends and family back home, from the time I made the decision to leave and to now. Thank you to all who have sent me care packages, letters, advice, or just simply staying in touch through Skype/facebook.  I am even grateful to all those who have not stayed in touch but nonetheless supported me before leaving. 
It would also be hard to be here if it weren't for all the amazing volunteers who I have had the privilege to serve with...they are among the most inspiring and wonderful people I've ever met.

Love you all, abrazos.

Here’s to the next 14-15 months.

p.s. Follow up post about CAMP ALMA to follow shortly