I have reached the 12 month mark, actually as of today I have reached the 13 month mark!
I know I keep saying that time is flying, but I am not exactly sure how time has gone this fast. I remember being in Korea just like it was a year ago, but now it's nearing three years. Even my graduation date is one year and a half in the past.
As we navigate the ever-shifting landscape of time, we must cherish each moment and savor the experiences shaping our lives. While time may continue to speed by, we can find solace in the memories we create and the moments we hold dear, knowing that they are the true markers of a life well-lived.
I Keep asking myself, Have I changed?
It's hard to feel like I have changed when I dont have the same people around me to compare myself to. My family can't notice differences when we are so far apart. But in real life, I guess its hard for anyone to notice these changes. I have changed, a lot. Just even thinking of the silly things. I can sleep on almost any surface, I am less bothered by food with bones in it, I can speak and argue in French and in Weme(kind of). Even the bigger things, like confidence and my ability to speak out, have increased. I had further identified my strengths and weaknesses, as well as my likes and dislikes, whereas before, I tried to fit myself into every box. Now, I am more content with being a square shape in a square hole. That was a weird metaphor, but it's how I feel.
What have been my fav moments
Cooking with my neighbors - things like pancakes, spaghetti, curry, and pizza. The cooking process is fun, and my neighbor's reactions are the funniest. So far, Pancakes are a hit but the spaghetti "isnt spicy enough" even when I put so much chilli powder in.
Dancing fatigant (franglais) - I literally am so uncoordinated but when I hear a beat my body moves and everyone appreciates it!
Journee Culturelle - My school hosted a cultural day where students presented skits, dances, songs and poems for the staff and students and it was the best day ever. We also ate a feast together.
Visiting parts of Benin - I am located in the southeast of Benin, close to Nigeria, and so far, I have seen some places more north, south, and west, but most importantly, all the beaches. The best part about these beaches is that they are almost always completely empty.
Challenges I have grown from in one year
Bugs Everywhere!! - Does this need more explanation? I have had thousands of spiders living with me for a year; they are better roommates than the cockroaches
Hot Hot Hot - Well its hot here all the time and I have got used to heat and a fan but nighttime sucks when the electricity turns off. There is no breeze in my cement box house.
Food Struggles—This has been a consistent issue for me: I can't find the foods I want, they're insanely expensive, or they even make me sick. As I am investigating an issue about my stomach being upset a lot and struggling a lot with Beninise foods, I still have some favorites that I eat even though I have an appointment with my latrine later.
What will this next year look like?
Drumroll Please. So, starting now, I am helping train the new volunteers who have arrived in Benin up until school starts. I have classes beginning September 16th and the last day of school will be June 20 ish I never know. I am currently applying for 3 grad school options that I am excited to share with you.
First, some news: I will most likely return to America the first week of August 2025. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that I get into one of the possible programs below.
Masters of Political Economy in Taiwan with the Fulbright Scholarship
Masters of International Relations (conflict and peace studies) In South Korea
Master of Global Studies (conflict and peace) at the University of Oregon
I have a few other backup plans, but I intend to hear from these first and decide from there ! I am very excited and really look forward to getting my master's degree so I can start on a career path that also fulfills my wandering heart. I know that for some of you wishing I was home may be missing me and I am just going to leave again for even more time, but know I miss home too. But I know that the more that I experience the happier I feel and the better person I become.
French Phrases of the week
Viens mangez - Come eat!
Je ne veux pas - I dont want
Je n'aime pas poisson - I dont like fish
Local language lesson!
Wa doo noo - come eat!
hwevi - fish
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