One Year and Counting

Sorry it has been so very long since last writing- my life has actually been very full and busy the last couple of months, which I am very grateful for. But now that I've reached the one-year mark since arriving in Mali, its caused me and my fellow volunteers quite a lot of introspection. Most of us still find it a little hard to believe that its been one year already (perhaps a little to our relief). And although it seems sometimes that there isn't much I've done or that there is still a long ways to go linguistically, culturally and professionally, when I stop to think about it I've realy come a long way. I've become used to a certain way of life, one that I never imagined possible this time last year. I've learned a new language and made some new and hopefully long-lasting relationships. I've learned patience (it helps when you bring a book with you) and to take things easy, because there is nothing that is worth rushing for. I've learned that I like my way of life here, but I also love the life I had back at home, where I had family and friends with me every step of the way. I've learned humility and graciousness and the ability to just know when to give up. I've learned what my own limits to the unknown are(larger than I would have originally thought). I've learned that its been one hell of a crazy year, and I have no doubts that the year to come will be just as crazy, so I should enjoy it to the fullest. And I've learned that when I come back to America next year it'll be with a whole new appreciation for West Africa, for home, and for myself.