Perspective is Everything

Today marks one full week in Albania! I cannot believe that I have only been in this beautiful country for 7 days. I feel as if I have been here for both a lifetime and a second. To say that my Peace Corps service will flash before my eyes is an understatement. I feel comfortable enough now to admit that this experienced initially terrified me. I was leaving everyone I loved, with people I didn’t know, to go to a country of which I did not speak the language. There was not an ounce in my body that truly believed I could do this. I felt that I could be making a terrible mistake for both myself and all of Albania. I am so thankful for my loved ones who gave me strength and courage when I felt that mine was running out.

But enough about what could have been- if you’re reading this then you must have a desire to know what my experience looks like now! This past 9-10 days can be summarized in one word, intense. But intense in every possible connotation of the word. So much information has been given in such a short amount of time to help transition us into our full 2 years of service (I am currently a Peace Corps Trainee while in Pre Service Training). Having a jam packed schedule though was honestly a comfort to me (if you know me in the slightest you know I like to keep busy . On Sunday, we all moved in to our host family houses in small villages within Albania to start our 10 week training. The idea of living with a family I had never met before was petrifying. About the only thing that I could say in Shqip was pershendetje (hello) and mire (good)-not the most conducive to a comfortable introduction. I fully expected them to dislike me or change their mind about hosting me. However, what I found was nothing of my nightmares, thank goodness. Not only has this family welcomed me into their home, but they have also welcomed me into their hearts. They have shown me such genuine love and care that I had never found in a stranger before. Having only been here 3 days, my host family has supported me in every experience, every one of my horrible attempts at conversation. They have become the ultimate language teachers, cheering squad, and support team. A loving environment that has made being far away from home so much more manageable, as I have found a second home.

I’ve realized a lot of things in my short time here. I’ve learned that The Office is not a part of Albanian Netflix. I’ve learned it is unlikely that I’ll be eaten by anything here ;-). I’ve learned that homemade bukë is the best bukë. But most importantly, I’ve realized that anything I do here has to be with a purpose bigger than myself. Bigger than Albania. Bigger than Peace Corps. What’s bigger than that you might ask?? People. At the end of the day the ones you love are the most important- and that love I’ve decided must be extended to everyone.

While you all must be wary of the single story lens (as not everyone living in Albania acts in this same manner)- I have absolutely nothing but wonderful things to say about my time here so far. I’m I awe of how much I have learned in such a short amount of time, which excites me for my future in Albania and beyond. At this moment my only concern is how I can best serve beside the citizens of my new home. Natën e mire, shihemi më vonë!