Walk like warriors, we were never told to run
Explored the world to return to where my soul begun
Never looking back or too far in front of me
The present is a gift
and I just wanna BE
-Common
2 weeks of orientation, 1 week in Pohnpei…and so begins life as a Jesuit Volunteer
Where to start, without doubt the sentiment delivered by Common above is what I will take from a great orientation. Through presentations, reflection, prayer, and socializing, I feel the core message pre-departure was that to do great work with others and abroad, one must first turn inward and work on oneself. So I left John Carroll University, not only in awe of the people I had met, such incredible people, but with a better sense of how to “BE.” It has become my mission to embark on this experience by attempting to see and find God in all things, as Common, Carlos Mejia, Fr. Howard Grey, fellow JV staff/presenters, and fellow volunteers enlightened me, that search must start within myself.
After three days of travel (four if one considers the day gained by crossing the international date line) I arrived to the dream I call Pohnpei. Pohnepei’s beauty is indescribable and when my camera is finally charged I will be sure to upload some photos. It is unlike any place I have ever been, like a hidden world amassed in an endless blue. What has stuck me most is the abundance of life. Whether it be tree, plant, ant, gecko,shark, spider, fruit, turtle, dog, person, there is life everywhere on this island. To a degree, life is so abundant it is almost bursting out from this small island to only be held back by the gaping waves and wind of the mighty Pacific.
Life is not only present here but it has a giant smile at all times. Upon first days, I have felt so blessed to be warmly greeted and accepted by each Pohnpeian I have met. Despite the fact many speak little or no English did not detour them, a smile is always on their faces. Life is simpler and slower here, which will take some getting used to, but as long as the niceties and pleasantries are extended for the next two years it should be no problem at all. Classes start in 5 days, I will be teaching 8th grade which is very exciting, and am spending most of my days cleaning my classroom, meeting the staff at Pohnpei Catholic School, and acquainting myself to the daunting tropical heat (I sweat constantly).
To my fellow JV’s I just want to wish you all luck as we begin our journeys, it gives me solace to know that around the globe, I am in such great company. To my family and friends, I already miss you all but am adjusting well to this tropical paradise. Kasalellia meinko.
