I wanted to start my blog now for posterity. First, I guess, for myself, to document this time in my life, but also because there are some holes in the information coming from the Peace Corps. I understand why this might be, by offering less info rather than more, there's a risk that a detail may not apply to the location I will be inhabiting. I have had many questions that weren't automatically given to me and I sought out the answers of people currently serving abroad and some recent returnees who gladly, graciously, and generously answered. So I figure if I publish what I have found as of now, it might help someone else just starting the process. I will edit those to be readable a little later on- stay tuned! But for now...
The Question
I've been living in my hometown in Kansas with my parents, something I haven't done for years. Last time I lived in this town, I rented and that was two summers ago. So it has been since I started college, I think. I am working in retail and have been bumping into former teachers, peers, acquaintances- it's kind of a small town. When I tell them what I'm about to do, the question always seems to arise "so, are you ready?" It's a natural question to ask; after all it's a somewhat major endeavor to undertake such a shift of lifestyle and remain dedicated to it for a period longer than two years.
My answer:
To the asker, I respond with a simple 'yes' and give some sentiment of excitement and wonder. Truthfully, I'm not ready. My bags aren't packed and in fact, one of the bags hasn't even arrived. I also don't have everything that I want to pack IN those bags (how many sticks of deodorant does one bring for a two year stint in sub-Saharan Africa?). I'm not concerned, though. In school, I studied abroad for a semester and during that time got to travel. I traveled in the dead of winter with nothing more than a single backpack. I bring that up to myself when necessary- I've lived without, sure for a short period of time, but it gives me the little proof I need to reassure myself.
The person asking, though, is surely referring to my mental state. Here's where it gets tricky. How do you say bye to your parents for two years? Or worse, your dogs?!? I feel pretty calm about it all, but with the month-mark a kiss away, perhaps I'll start to sweat. Am I ready? Can one every say goodbye well enough to satisfy a two year absence? If the Peace corps called me in the middle of the night to leave tomorrow morning* what would be different? It's like the person asking thinks there is an answer to all the above questions; as if my ass will turn bright red and THEN I will know I'm ready to serve as a volunteer in the Peace Corps. While my hindquarters remain as their natural pale hue, I think I'm ready; at least as ready as I'm going to be.
*totally fake scenario- I've never heard of such a thing. In my little experience they are slow and deliberate.
"Or worse, your dogs?!?" haha :)
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