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.
I created this blog when I was still living in West Africa. I envisioned an open forum where I could post my experiences, reach the masses and receive infinite feedback. Or, at the very least, get some stuff off my chest. Feel free to do the same.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
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.
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2 comments:
you're doing a GREAT thing girl... not only is it an invaluable experience for you, but it lets those kids and adults around you in Mauritania know that there are people out there who truly care about them and their plight. i admire your courage and commitment!
What a sweet black panter you are !
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