Peace Corps

So, ever since I was 16 I have wanted to join the Peace Corps. I am not entirely sure what set it off... Actually, that is not true. As previously stated, I was in a small Midwestern town where I had plenty of time to dream. I always was interested in other cultures, understanding them, learning part of their language, and travelling. My junior year of high school I had a great teacher, Mrs. Weber, and she had been in the Peace Corps in Thailand. Her stories stuck with me. It's funny how we take pieces of those around us, lessons learned from our mentors, and incorporate them into our lives.

Anyway, I remember looking on the Peace Corps website then and I even had a button with the Peace Corps sign on the bulletin board in my room. My college boyfriend and I nearly broke up after I told him that was what I wanted to do post-college. After I began working, circumstances led me to stay where I was for longer than I intended. It's been a great experience, though, and truth be told I don't know if I was mature enough to begin the Peace Corps right out of college.

But, now that I am approaching birthday #26 and realizing I've been toying with this Peace Corps idea for almost a decade, I think it is time to revisit it. I have no strings attached in my life. I love my job and still have room to grow and learn in it. They say the Peace Corps application process is long and tedious... so, perhaps if I get started now it can become a reality during my 26th year!