I am lost for words to describe the last week. It is hard to believe that only just over 7 days have passed since I started this incredible experience with the Peace Corps. Life in the Dominican Republic, and with the Peace Corps, thus far has not been entirely smooth. Moving to a new country with 38 strangers is no easy feat. I have experienced a lot of firsts so far in the DR. I took my first bucket shower (which was easy and honestly more my style as an environmentalist). I am still getting used to the cold water. My first bucket flush was a little nerve-wracking because I was so scared the water would overflow. My first time sleeping with a mosquito net has been the easiest since it doesn’t change anything really about my sleeping habits. Only having running water in the kitchen at home would seem like a challenge, but my doña has been living this way for decades and I easily learned from her system. I’m sure these differences will seem impossible at times during our service, especially since I am so accustomed to the privileges of the US, but at the end of the day those changes are minuscule compared to the larger goal and purpose for our service.
Through my early troubles of the typical homesickness and nerves, I pushed myself to establish a connection with my doña by talking with her. She quickly has become like an abuela to me in her kindness and willingness to host me in her small yet beautiful home. She has already given me a glimpse at the caring nature of the people here. She gives what she can to the people in need, even if she doesn’t have that much to offer.
Other than my wonderful doña, my fellow PCT’s (Peace Corps Trainees) have truly helped me through the tough times. Although they didn’t know I was struggling, their open personalities made it easier to start connecting, and continue to do so. I have made 38 new best friends in a matter of one week, when it feels like we have known each other for so much longer. I think we are different in our own ways, yet our outlooks and goals are the same and make it easier for us to get along so well.
There are so many things I have seen and learned thus far that are so eye opening and I know it is only the beginning. After some more time living here and observing I will have such a better understanding of the quotidian life and the culture. And I cannot wait to continue adopting this beautiful Dominican culture as my own. From the constant music blasting on the streets, to dominos as a daily pastime, to sitting 7 people in a car and everything in between.
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