Well I know it’s been a while since I’ve sent out a letter or email. I apologize for that, for about 2 ½ months I didn’t have a computer so communication was a bit rough even with my parents. My parents so graciously did some work back in the states and was able to get me a new computer, which will more than likely last me through the rest of my service. Thankfully!!!
I am pleased to announce that I have officially been in Ethiopia for one year now. May 25th is my one year mark in country. Unfortunately my actual service didn’t start until the first of August so that’s technically my one year mark of “service” here in Ethiopia. But it is kind of exciting to say I’ve lived in a developing nation for one year now. “Very Cool!”
Living in a new country and a new culture for one year, has really opened my eyes to experiences that I would have never fathomed in American. Let’s just say I have a greater appreciation now for my education and especially for my higher education. While education is almost a must in America whether it is a technical education or your basic higher education it really does make a difference in our country. Also, our awareness as a culture to the differences in people and how others live is an even greater piece of education we sometimes inadvertently learn about in our schools. There have been some wonderful times here; experiencing holidays, a two hour lunch break really is not a bad thing, and walking everywhere can quickly wear out a pair of shoes.
As always there are daily challenges that occur and patience is tested; just being aware of the fact that the construction worker or even the secondary student may be unaware that yelling “honey” at me is offensive and taking the time to explain to them that you are insulting me can be a learning experience, walking into that 4 year olds house and telling him and his parents that yelling “Ferengi” at me is very rude and taking the time to sit and have tea with a group of high school students explaining to them about American culture can sometimes test my language patience. It all really can be a challenge and wonderful experience at the same time.
Just recently I learned I could possibly be getting a new Education Peace Corps Volunteer in my site. At first I was a little hesitant about this however; I am at a point in my service where I would really enjoy the company of another. In addition, my town could really use an English Education volunteer here… while the high school students should have started learning English at the primary level they are still having issues with simple sayings like, “How are you?” and “Where are you going?”, This of course is the result of lack of English awareness from the teachers. So I hope between the two of us “native” English speakers we can help correct a bit of improperly taught English sayings.
In terms of work, I’ve been working on an AIDS Resource and Youth Center. Mostly I’ve just been working on a proposal to get some money from Peace Corps. While I’m sure you think…”really sham” you’ve been working on this thing for like 2 months now, things here run at a much slower pace than back in America. Just catching people in their offices can sometimes be a tedious task, and no there are no secretaries here and setting up a next time to meet with people just doesn’t work. I’m almost finished with the proposal ahead of schedule for me… “Which is Awesome!” I won’t know until about the end of June if I will get funding but at least I made an effort. It sounds convincing to me, so I’m hoping to get some money.
The county ITC guy just opened a little shop and he installed internet in it. I am so grateful for that fact that I can as long as there is power in my town I can take my computer over to his shop and hard wire into his internet. I try to a couple times a week check my e-mail and facebook. Not that long ago in America internet access was hard to come by in work and home settings but I was definitely raised with internet and as were many of the people I grew up with. We really are the information age generation and I really do miss having internet at my fingertips. But it has gotten better which I am so grateful for in my site. THANK YOU ITC MAN!
Other than that, daily living is always an experience and walking outside of my compound can sometimes be emotionally taxing, but I know I am here for the purpose of making the towns people a little more aware of the American culture and showing them that how you act and present yourself means a whole lot to a foreigner. If I don’t complete anything in my time of service here in Ethiopia I can officially say I have done that.
As always I hope everyone is happy and healthy back home. Would love to hear back from some of you, so keep in touch! :)
"Life is tough wear a helmet"
Sham
