Monday, September 14, 2015

A Change in Plans

"Three grand essentials to happiness in this life are something to do, something to love, and something to hope for." -Joseph Addison

Two years ago when I came down to Colombia, I committed myself to staying here for these two years.  About a year into that commitment, I began to realize that two years was just not going to cut it for me.  I was just getting into the swing of things with the communities: learning how to work within the complexities and challenges; understanding how slow the processes are but how it is worth the time and energy; accepting the fact that the more I learn, the less I understand, but wanting to always learn more; feeling more and more at home in this new home and more and more anxiety about leaving. 

After reflection, conversation, and looking at the options, I’ve decided to stay.  Sembrandopaz has given me the opportunity to continue working with them in a new capacity but still with the communities.  I will be moving out of Libertad to the city to be closer to one of the offices, but I will continue to travel between all of the communities that we support.  I will be mainly involved in different efforts with the youth and women in the region, as well as helping Sembrandopaz focus on psychosocial supports.

I am very excited about this plan.  When I left Colombia in 2010, I decided that I wanted to find a way to return but instead of teaching English, I wanted to work with youth, victims of the conflict, and have a focus on psychosocial interventions.  Five years later I find myself doing just that. 


Thank you to everyone who has been so supportive, loving, honest, and patient in helping me get here and helping me continue to follow my dreams, grow as a person, and stay sane.  J