Peace Corps

I have begun the process of applying to serve in the Peace Corps (teaching English). So far, and I am barely into the process, the most difficult thing is controlling my impulse to repeatedly call and e-mail and otherwise pester those who have graciously agreed to complete the long, thought-requiring recommendation form. It is unusual for me to have my life, my desires and decisions in the hands, under the control of someone else. It's driving me a little batty.

That's why I've decided to re-start this blog. Is this worth sharing? Obviously, I think so. In comparison to some of the other blogs I've read by Peace Corps Volunteers (PCV) and applicants, most certainly. Some are entertaining, often enlightening, excellently told stories and others are filled with the sort of cloying, "I am a creative writer" writing that I want to slash with my red Sharpie. Those are often the ones written by an idealist whose idealism has run into the brick wall of tradition and broken its neck.

I do not delude myself that I will change the world or tradition in my two years, but I can give the kids I teach a different perspective. I can give them better English with which they may have more options in life. I hope to give them a window to other ways of thinking about their place in the world, a way to maybe start changing their world.

I have always believed that the most effective, the most lasting change comes from within.