Quick Info: I've applied and as of November 2nd, 2008 been accepted to the Peace Corps as an educational volunteer. My assignment is to work to TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) in Madagascar for 27 whole months! I am leaving June 15th for staging in some major American city and then I am off to Madagascar on June 18th 2009.
For two months now I've been soaking in the realities of being a future Peace Corps Volunteer; here's what's on my mind:
Firstly, why do 95% of people excitedly ask "like the movie?!" when I tell them I'm going to Madagascar, as if the animated film has given them some insight into Malagasy (Madagascar-an) life?
Just in case you're wondering: I will not befriend a pack of talking animals seeking to escape Madagascar. If I experience any talking animals, I will immediately contact the Peace Corps Medical Services as talking animals probably means I have contracted some infection or virus that is causing psychosis.
Secondly, why is the experience of being a Peace Corps Volunteer in Madagascar cool until, amongst answering excited questions and responding to hum-drum statements about how admirable my decision is, I mention that I will not have running water?
What is it about running water that makes being a Peace Corps Volunteer seem so impossible?! The reaction is always the same; a twisting of the eyes and mouth, a scoff, a throwing up of the hands, and a vigorous shaking of the head, and always "Oh no, that's not for me. That's ridiculous." Even if two seconds prior to this fact I was the world's greatest hero, I instantly become a crazy fool who needs to enjoy water while I have it.
I have to say, I've suffered a few minor anxiety spells recently when thinking upon the fact that I will shed my capitalistic coil in 5 months to embark on a life changing journey; think Monk (the detective) walking into a disorganized room. OMG I'm leaving America to live in poverty in an effort to help save the world, how freakin' awesome.
Friday, January 9, 2009
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