One year ago today I left America

It is unbelievable!! How has a year gone by so fast?! It’s so odd to think I haven’t been in America for a whole year. Other volunteers and I talk about it all the time these days. As fast as this year has gone, older volunteers say the second year goes by even faster….that’s even crazier to think about…I’m going to be home before we know it!
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A reflection on the past year of my life in Africa…
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First, let me just say that it’s hard to write about such an experience. I have learned so much in such a short amount of time. I think I have learned most about myself and what I am capable of. Of course, we (as volunteers) join the Peace Corps to help others abroad, but to be honest I think volunteers get much more out of the experience than those we serve. Here, I have learned to be more patient, to be more flexible, and more accepting of others. I do believe that if more Americans (or rather, everyone) were to go abroad for a significant amount of time, we would have a very different world, a much better world.
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Over that past year I have also been on an emotional and mental health roller coaster. The first few months were extremely difficult. I got homesick often and was trying to find my place here. But that time has passed and I feel much more comfortable with every day. I know why I am here, what I am supposed to do, and that it’s ok if I don’t make a huge significant difference in the lives of Tanzanians (simply being here is making some small difference…I hope).
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I have also learned to respect Brittany Spears. I know what you’re thinking…what?! But here is my reasoning…here in Tz I am famous pretty much where ever I go because I am white. People want to know my and hang out with me, especially in my village. In my village, I am known by everyone, everyone knows my name. They watch everything I do and want to be around me all the time and it gets freaking ANNOYING. So in my short time of being famous (and on a much smaller scale), I can only image what Brittany Spears goes through. Therefore I don’t blame her for shaving her head, hitting a paparazzi’s car with an umbrella, and partying like the rock star she is because, well, sometime when people don’t leave me alone I want to do much worse haha.
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A quote that really sums up my life here….

“I’m riding the highs and diggin the lows. I have never had so many emotional days, but at least I feel alive.” – Michelle Branch
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Stats
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Things I have not done in a year:
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- Stepped on American soil
- Eaten good steak
- Had my mom’s home cooking
- Driven car
- Seen friends and family
- Gotten a pedicure or manicure
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Oh ya…have I mentioned I am finally being published. My research paper from college will be in the Psi Chi Journal of Undergraduate Research. You can probably buy a copy online at the Psi Chi National Honor Society of Psychology website.
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Ok bye… my time is running out on the internet. I will continue another day…sorry this blog was short.
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XOXO Jessie