So,
I've been out on vacation for the past two weeks in Utah, and it's giving me
time to think a lot about.... I've got to spend a lot of time hanging out with
old friends as well as get to know new friends. It’s made me realize just how
difficult this journey is going to be. While I am absolutely ecstatic about
leaving for the Peace Corps I also want to be realistic with you all. I’m so
going to miss my life here in the States!!! I know that much will change while
I am gone and while I will be able to occasionally contact some friends and
family, I know that will be a rare occasion (compared to the consistent availability
of technology here). As I say “see you later” more and more it starts to really
kick in that I really am saying “good bye” because when I return both they and
I will have changed so very much. I am grateful for the changes that I know
will be coming BUT I know that I will not be the only one to change. I think
the hardest realization is that I know I won’t be there to comfort or celebrate
with those whom I love so much. I can’t send my random SMILE texts, or swing by
for babysitting breaks, or if I lose/gain someone in my family I will not be
beside my mom’s side as she goes through those moments. (This is a decision I
made, Peace Corps gives you leave, but I have decided that I will not return to
America during my service because I think it would be too tempting to stay if I
did). The main reason THIS is going to be hard is I’m such a mommies girl, even
during our ups and downs I have ALWAYS spoken to my mom regularly, even while
in Costa Rica, This is going to be hard for me BUT it’s gonna to be hardest on
my Mother. She has always had to deal with my nomadic lifestyle and while she hasn't agreed with some of my choices she has ALWAYS been there with arms
welcoming me home and has tried everything she can to make sure I have what I
need. I am grateful to the Lord for letting her be my mother, I know I wouldn't be who I am today without her. I also know so many of my family and friends
have shaped my life. To quote a song, “you are the wind beneath my wings”. I
know I could not do all of the amazing things I am doing without such a
supportive network of friends and family. SO THANK YOU for always supporting me
even if you don’t always agree with me, I truly love you all so deeply and I am
sorry I am going to miss out on so many parts of your lives, but it is time for
me to soar and see just how far I can fly! But always remember no matter how
far away I am we will always be under the same sky and I will always know where
my safe harbors are.
For
those thinking and preparing to join Peace Corps know that the journey is one
of pure emotion and many times you will wonder what you are getting yourselves
into, but remember where much is given much is required. You will never regret
getting out of your comfort zone and giving a piece of your heart to others
because in return they fill the very corners of your soul!
SMILE you are LOVED!
Jump'n Jenny
Until Next Time!
JumpInTheJungle
Until Next Time!
JumpInTheJungle
