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This is my final post before completing my Peace Corps service
and returning to the states in May. I have accomplished what I set out to do:
to make a difference, however small, toward creating a better world. I have come to
love the people here and feel incredibly blessed to have been given the
neighbors, co-workers and friends I acquired along the way. Some will remain
lifelong amigos.
My center has implemented many of
my recommendations for improving communication, and the Peace Corps Mexico
office shared my work with Washington, D.C. as a success story. I painted wildflowers
for a botanical garden to help them raise money. And I taught dozens of people English.
One of my students just won a competition in Austin, TX for which I helped her prepare,
and another student did well enough on the Test of English as a Foreign
Language (TOEFL) to be admitted to a PhD program. Oh yes, and I learned
Spanish! I won't be joining a Spanish debate team any time soon, but I can communicate.
Just as important are the
intangible successes. There was the neighbor who saw me hug my sons during a
visit and was surprised that American families are affectionate. And the children who stared at me in wide-eyed
wonder, mouths agape at my fractured Spanish and alien face, who might remember
the kind, smiling stranger from another place and find compassion in their hearts
when they meet others like me some day.
I traveled throughout much of
Mexico and visited beautiful cities and tiny pueblos, explored archeological
sites, enjoyed beautiful beaches and marveled at the varied terrain, cuisine,
art, history, culture and people. This truly is a magnificent country.
I am
packing up two years of souvenirs, but the most precious things I will bring
home are the memories. This has been a life-changing experience and a true gift.
Thank you for reading my blog. Safe
travels, and may you walk in peace.
Donna
