The Peace Corps was often a disappointing experience. I was able to do good work and am proud to say I made some small difference in the world while I was here. I feel the overwhelming bureaucracy of the Peace Corps and the adverse effects of foreign aid essentially made it impossible for me to realize the potential that this experience could have been.
While here I've fought HIV and AIDS; I designed and oversaw construction of a basketball court with Rebecca Workman; I participated in the planning and running of a camp to develop the Boys of Uganda into positive leaders; I promoted the use of highly efficient mud stoves to reduce fuel cost at my school, I introduced my organization to cost control practices, I taught important life skills to Orphans and Vulnerable children once a week; I advocated for volunteers as a representative of our training class; I developed a new model for communication with Peace Corps Invitees and successfully implemented it.
While here I conversed in a foreign language, I experienced a way of life far different than mine back home, I bathed in a bucket for 18 months, I helped slaughter and cook a delicious pig, I washed my clothes by hand, I made lifelong friends, and I let myself fall in love for the first time in my life.
Yesterday I found that there wasn't a single day left in my scheduled 8 remaining months of Peace Corps that I looked forward to. This experience has nothing left to offer me. I'm proud of what I've done and for the most part in the man I have been while here. I'm glad I'm leaving when I had nothing left worth doing, not when my 2 years happened to be expiring.
I believe this will be my final post. And so...
Mom and Dad, Thank you for the life and love you have given me. If I have done anything good here it is because you raised me into the man I am.
Annie, thank you for all the support and love.
Elaine, the support I received from you and the old team was incredible.
Nick, One of the greatest outcomes of my Peace Corps experience is making friends I intend to know the rest of my life. Can't wait for our future adventures.
Kendall, You were right, it was worth it.
Alexi, We weren't close friends until I really needed one. Thank you.
Matt, Yatzee! I couldn't resist. You better come to a Clemson-UNC game with me.
Drew & Christy, I miss you two already. We've got lots of good times ahead.
Becca, Thanks for taking care of me when I most needed it. I'll see you in America.
Jenny, Knowing you changed my life, I'll never forget you.
I look forward to meeting you Ryan Luckie! If you by some miracle get to MS before Drew and Christy get home PLEASE stay with us. Well done,safe travels.
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