The Sanctuary

Here is the hospital at which I work. I have mixed emotions about working as a Health volunteer. Sometimes I find it difficult to fulfill my Peace Corps duty. I understand that I have a vague commitment of contributing something to the bigger picture of humanity but I still can't figure out what that is. What exactly is the nature of my role? I work in a hospital and I have zero medical experience. So what exactly am I supposed to do? If my joining Peace Corps. was simply a matter of patriotism, I should have stayed in the States. That realization further convoluted my understanding of a Peace Corps. volunteer. I was and am confused about the nature of my duty. On the other hand, I am grateful to work in such a unique environment, learning a new language and gaining incomparable experience. Just the other day, I found someone in Harlem who is from region where I live. We spoke in his local language for over an hour. My volunteership was finally validated and my training and hard work had materialized. That brief interaction helped me to realize that Peace Corps. is paying off...I guess.

The Road to Prosperity

This is the road to the fields where most people in my village tend to their farms bringing food back for the family. Mauritanians eat what they produce in the fields. A lack of productivity or a skimpy rainy season causes families to starve. Ironically, this is the same road to the district hospital.

River God

The Senegalese River plays an integral role in Mauritania. Villages along the river benefit from the flow of water. If cultivated, farms are more likely to flourish despite the barren terrain. Fishing industries bring capital to the village. Some of the most prosperous villages are along the river. Unfortunately, the river brings a host of serious diseases including cholera, guinea worm, schistosomiasis, and river blindness.