driven. learner. aspiring nurse.
... you know, just tryin' to make a difference in peeps' lives.
... you know, just tryin' to make a difference in peeps' lives.
My intentions for today were to finish a few study guides, organize my extra credit stuff, study for my final and practicum, and of course…confirm my acceptance to the Chile program. I’ve knocked out at least a few things off my list, but I still have ways to go.
I started reading the Chile handbook that they recommended before departing and the preface ended with this: “This experience is not for everyone- it takes dedication, hard work, a sense of adventure, a willingness to do something truly “different”, and flexibility and open-mindedness.” At the moment (which was only moments ago) was when it hit me. This was my calling- something I’ve longed for.
I’ve been reading various blogs of people who went on Humanitarian missions and many of the readings have been very inspiring to me. One theme that kept coming up was that you won’t be able to inspire the whole community because they have already established their culture. Instead, learn about their beliefs. Exchange stories. Learn from each other. Be willing to embrace their culture because it allows you to be vulnerable and it recognizes that you as a visitor honors your host and that’s very important. Why else would you visit a country?
So, I guess the take home message for me is that I should not expect to make a difference in all of my future students’ lives no matter how ideal that is. Frankly, it is very possible that it will be the other way around.
