Peace Corps Volutneers are all just dirty hippies that have a "save the world" mentality. At least that's what many expats here and a good deal of people back home probably think.
"But we're not dirty!" is what I say. Well, at least not all the time...and what's so wrong with having a superman mentality? Someone's gotta give a shit about others, right?
Last month my group (LR-3) had our IST (In-Service Training) in Kakata. Among other things, we were shown some video clips about typical Americans' views on foreign aid and the U.S.'s role in international developemental efforts. While service in the PC is a very unique experience, different from other types of international development work, what we are doing can stull be included in talk like this.
So take a couple minutes and watch these clips. Take note of your thoughts.
1.) What Americans Think About Foreign Aid: East
...and because I'm from the Midwest...
2.) What Americans Think About Foreign Aid: Midwest
I think in the beginning, you'll find you agree with some of these people's opinions. Why help others when there's so much that needs to be done at home? Yes, it's a valid point, one that I agreed with initially, and I'm serving as a PCV in Africa. But just keep watching...do your thoughts change? Are you surprised by what you learn?
Do you really think we're doing enough? Should we be doing more? Do you understand now, at least small-small, why people choose to serve as a PCV?
Share the facts with others. Continue to support our work and other developmental efforts. Don't only think and function within your own bubble of reality. We're all part of this world, we're all sharing this human experience together. Do what you can to help, even if it's small. Every bit counts.
Dany-Great post and thank you including the links from your recent training in Kakata. The videos were excellent and I am definitely planning to share them with our family and friends.
ReplyDeleteWe are extremely impressed and proud of all of the Peace Corps volunteers serving in Liberia and your blogs help us to learn more about the whole experience there.
I was very excited to learn that both you and Rebecca Martinez are from Missouri.
I am Madeline Farron's mom and I am also from St. Louis (we live in Kansas now. ) My parents & sister still live in Chesterfield.
We are glad that Madeline has a little bit of Missouri close to her in Africa--it's like a little piece of home! Keep up the good work!! We are all benefitting and learning from all that you share with us. Thanks