Today is the day I finally thought about and comprehended how long 27 months is. Many people have questioned my reasoning for doing Peace Corps. Why would I want to leave everyone I love, everything I love, and put my life on hold for 2 years? But, am I really putting my life on hold?? For me, it is quite the opposite. I will have so many learning experiences, meet people-- many of whom I will learn to love, and find new interests and hobbies that I might otherwise never have discovered. (Like riding a horse or brick laying?? haaha). Overall, what is two years of my life? Just a small portion that I am willing to "put on hold" for what I will receive in exchange. Obviously, I will miss out on many things-- important things-- back here in the States, but I'll be able to have all that upon returning. Feeling 'out of the loop' will by far be the hardest thing for me, but as long as my family and friends keep me posted with stories and pictures, I think I can live with that!! PLEASE KEEP ME POSTED :)
When will I ever be able to live independently in a foreign culture for 2 years learning and helping people along the way? My bet is that it will never happen again and many people never get this opportunity. I embrace this challenge.
In other news, I leave for SPAIN tomorrow night! Good opportunity to practice my Spanish because lord knows, I need it!!! I'm also very very super excited to spend 10 days with my mom and sisters. Can't wait!
Also- my flight for Miami leaves Philly on Feb 8th at 12:15PM. My flight for Paraguay leaves Miami at 8:15PM on Feb 9th. It's all happeeeeennnniiinnnngggg! WOOOOO.
you're absolutely right - you are not putting your life "on hold", this IS your life!
ReplyDeleteHi, my name is Amanda Firestone, and I'm going to Paraguay on the 8th too! I found your blog on the Peace Corps Journals website. It's all kinda hitting me right now too. 27 months!! But it's going to be amazing.
ReplyDeleteJust wanted to let you know you're not alone :)
Hey, my name is Stephen, I have a blog up and running on Peace Corps Journals! titled "stephen's paraguayan adventure". any way, i will be leaving for Paraguay on Feb 8th too! So excited! I will be doing Urban Youth Development. I will see you in Miami!!!!
ReplyDeletehey! i'm leaving with you guys too! 11 days!! so crazy! stephen and amanda, are you guys on facebook? look me up. Alison Patt.. actually, i think there's a few people with that name, but i'm the one with the beach picture. see you in a few days!!!
ReplyDeleteDanielle, I am so proud of you. Although I will miss you terribly, I know this is the right thing for you to do. You have an incredible opportunity in front of you - to educate others and yourself. I wish I were right there beside you! The time will go quickly, so appreciate, learn, and enjoy. I look forward to following your blog, and hearing your many experiences.
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