“I’m joining the Peace Corps” elicits quite polarizing responses from people. Some are positive and people respect me for my decision. They often even wish they were young enough or brave enough to go themselves.
Many of the responses I have received however, have been quite negative. I have…
I begin teaching again tomorrow…. With just one more school year left, I think it’s important to revisit my reasons for coming here in the first place.
I talked about challenges and fear in the original post. I can say with confidence that a year in I have no fear in me. I have a much better idea of my worth and ability and this Peace Corps thing (and whatever it is I do after) simply doesn’t scare me anymore. My future isn’t certain, but I’ve learned to live with and embrace uncertainty.
I’d like to add to this original post something that I’ve found immensely important in propelling me forward during this past year. I have a thirst for knowledge. I say it all the time now when people ask me why I’m here. I say I’m here to learn. With a goal as simple and broad as that, it’s incredibly easy to feel accomplished every day.
When I flooded my bathroom with toilet water, I learned that I shouldn’t flush tissue in my toilet. When I passed the HSK 4 with no prep (and after making questionable decisions the night before) I realized just how capable I am. Every time I learn a new word or navigate a cultural difference effectively (usually that only happens the third or fourth time in confronted with it) and every time I leave the house. I learn something new, about myself, about China, about the US and the world around me. I’m doing exactly what I came here to do and even with just under a year left in my service, I know I’ll be able to look back on it with satisfaction.
Why the Peace Corps?
mrveitch 
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