Apparently, I’m not cut out for this blogging business, but greetings to you who weren’t put off by my long absence. So much has happened since my last update. Let’s see… in January, I put together a health resource center that I will be managing throughout this year. It is pretty basic (health tips, nutrition facts, patient feedback and reading material) but it was something tangible that I knew I could complete and I’m excited about how it will grow. I also continued to work in maternal services and teach English at my health center. At the end of the month, my town hosted an Open Day Expo. All the local organizations had booths to present their services and different groups came to perform throughout the event, which lasted two days. In addition, local leaders gave speeches and outside vendors sold goods and crafts. I managed our health center’s activities in the expo. Mainly, we offered voluntary testing and counseling (VCT) for HIV/AIDS. This means that anyone could receive education, testing and supplemental support free of charge. I was encouraged to see many young people participate. Normally, there is a social stigma associated with visiting the health center at their age so this venue was ideal.
Following the expo, I got ready for my first vacation since coming to Rwanda. Hong Kong is about as polar opposite to Karongi as possible. It is hard to believe that both places exist on the same planet. My visit was full of the things I had missed most– food, family, shopping, Starbucks, TV, bookstores, McDonald’s, IKEA, etc. Most of all, I relished being just another unnoticed Asian. Here my presence, and even absence, is big news. My actions and words are constantly scrutinized and discussed at length. I know I’m not a big deal, but try telling my neighbors that. Surprisingly, I found that I began missing Rwanda. Part of me wanted to return to its simplicity.
So, here I find myself, unplugged once again. It took leaving to realize the things that are most important to me– family and friends, working hard and doing good. Do I wish I could have another Big Mac? Disgustingly, yes. But that’s not what I need to thrive here. For now, I’m content seeking His will for me in this place. As my story continues to unfold, I’ll try my best to keep you updated. As always, please let me know how things are on your end! Heart, V
