one peace corps volunteer's journey into the warm heart of africa

Thursday, September 16, 2010

i can start a fire like a malawian woman...

...yep, that's right. Last week I received that compliment from a friend and for me this was just about the greatest thing a Malawian could have said to me, especially since I spent my first three days at site eating peanut butter and banana sandwiches because I was unable to start a fire. As I thought about what he said, I realized that in the 7 months of being here I have learned an incredible amount of things, whether it be about how to make compost, how to speak Chichewa, to look right and not left first when crossing the road, how to process honey, how to draw my own blood to test if I have malaria, and the list goes on. But, I know that there is still so much to learn, some days I feel like the most unqualified person ever to do my job. I mean honestly, what in the world can I do to help these people in the two short years that I am here? However, I just keep praying that God will use me in whatever capacity He wants and I try to be open to learn and experience new things. I guess that's all I can do!

3 comments:

jess said...

test your own blood? ohh my gosh, i have to stop my self from coming over there and getting big sisterly on you right NOW!
so proud of you.
xo.

janine said...

You are AMAZING, Katy! Can't wait to hear more about all that you are learning! We love you and are so proud of you!

Nate Bloss said...

Hey. Im a Peace Corps volunteer in Namibia and am planning to travel to Malawi in December/January. Im looking for information on where to go / stay, how much Visas are, general costs. and how to travel (can you hitch hike).

If you think you can help me out send me an email: natebloss@gmail.com.

Thanks,
Nate