Last Night in Chi Town

I'm leaving tomorrow morning. I'm still trying to cram the last of my stuff into 2 suitcases. Living the Bohemian lifestyle is getting off to a rocky start. I'm really getting nervous. I sat and watched Full House and Step by Step for a few hours this morning. I kept thinking "I won't get to see these shows for a few years," but I don't even LIKE those shows. Weird.

The Kyrgyz peeps like to write their addresses backwards. Email me for my address. And here are some tips for sending letters and packages:

• Number letters and packages so I'll know if any turn up missing
• Putting religious symbols all over the letter deters people from opening them
• Wrap boxes in brown paper and tie a string if the post office will let you
• Use tape and always include a detailed inventory list on the inside. Typed address labels help as well. Be especially careful with padded or manilla envelopes--they're easy to get into.
• Insure packages.

But don't let this stop you from sending me some love. I love to get letters no matter where I am, so keep them coming. Now I have to get back to packing. My Ps want me to pack up everything in my old room so they can use it while I'm gone - and I've really been procrastinating.

What the Heck am I Thinking?!?

The countdown is 6 days. Sometimes I still can't believe that I'm actually joining the Peace Corps. Its one of those things that I dreamed of when I was younger. Whenever I accomplish something big on my list of TO DOs, I have to take a step back because I'm amazed that I've got it together (somewhat).

The BIG question everyone asks is "What made you join the Peace Corps?" And my response is: "I'm going to save the world." I know its a hokey response but its so much simpler than delving into all of my reasons. So here's the down & dirty, E! True Hollywood Story (I'm kidding, they haven't done a show about me yet).

At Truman State University, I studied Accounting and Business Management. I guess at first I wanted to make money and live comfortably. But by the time senior year rolled around, I was unhappy with my choice of focus. For three years, I had studied best business practices, with profit being the bottome line. I woke up and realized that profit is NOT the bottom line, and that I care more about people than I do about money.

After this realization, I couldn't figure out what I would do with my degrees without helping some evil empire (ie Walmart) make more money. After researching several unfeasible options, I rediscovered my previous dream of joining the Peace Corps.

Basically, I realize how incredibly lucky I am to have as much education as I do. There are countless people who would love an education, but have to sacrifice it to work for their families at a young age. I took school for granted for too many years. And since I had good opportunities, I think the least I can do is to go somewhere that people need and want my help.

I also want to see every place on Mother Earth. Maybe its unrealistic, but this adventure will give a few more notches in the old tiller.

I know this sounds like a bunch of idealistic propoganda, but there it is. At least some of it.

Peace.


P.S. Tiller = steering wheel of a sailboat