I'm leaving for Narena tomorrow morning. Ack!
The last few days have been busy with wrap-up, preparing, and partying. There is so much that I have to say that I haven't yet found the time to type and post to the internet. Over the next few weeks, I should have loads of time, and daily access to power. I hope to package some of the stories from my journal into my blog as a way to pass the time. Unfortunately, there is no internet in Narena, so I'll only be able to post every couple weeks when I run into Bamako.
In the meantime, I must admit that I'm tremendously nervous for this upcoming transition. Until my language and relationships are up to par, I expect that this will be the most challenging part of my service. I will be more isolated even than I expected (though relative to other volunteers I'm about average). For anyone who is considering calling or sending letters, the next ten weeks would be a really good time.
My own fears of isolation aside, I go into this time deeply convinced of my mission here. I have seen just enough to understand how things work here, and where they fall short of really working. I think I know just enough to be able to do something about it. I know it will only work if I gain the trust of the people I work with, and if I work by their side to find workable solutions for their challenges.
Thanks to everyone who's checked in. Even if I haven't had the time to respond, it helps me to know that I'm not doing this alone. Please keep doing it, and I will get back to you individually over the next couple months.
Thats all for now. Wish me luck, and be in touch.
- D
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4 comments:
You're never alone, Dan. We're all with you in spirit and proud of what you are doing on our behalf.
Love,
Dad
P.S. Our recent attempts to get you on your phone haven't worked We're trying! We'll keep trying too.
Much luck. But you won't need. Sounds like you thriving in your new environment. Keep it up. Peace (core)
It's beautiful to read about how you are being touched by the people and their culture. Although everyone can't have the opportunity to be immersed in a developing world community, your writings may help to bring us all closer.
There's a link to your blog on St. Martin's home page so, as Chip said, we're all with you in spirit.
Judy
Great to hear from you again Dan, your stories are quite interesting and fun to read. Keep up the great work, time is flying by even if the days seem slow.
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