The new year

The 21 of May 2009, represents my one year mark as a volunteer in Fiji. A time like this is often overlooked in the midst of projects and daily obligations. But, much like New Years, I see this day as something to celebrate- a day to reflect on the past year, and how I can improve in the year to come.

So many thoughts come to mind on how to celebrate the amazing exposure my work and situation have offered. But perhaps the best way to do this is to recap some incredible, noteworthy, moments;

· The pleasure of living three months in a village with Viliame, Tavenisa, and Lo.

· My site- working in a reproductive health clinic in Lautoka (the best place to live in Fiji- but then again, I’m biased)

· Living with and getting to know my amazingly accommodating roommate Nagisa- a very close friendship that will surely continue beyond this experience

· Carrying out a nightclub condom distribution program in the major clubs in Suva (the largest city in the South Pacific)

· Working on a large scale donation to provide medical equipment to the hospitals and health centers in the western division

· Having the opportunity to travel for two weeks on a government boat around the Yasawa islands, stopping at every health center, nursing station, and village, to provide rural, outpatient services.

There are so many other noteworthy experiences, but the chronological list I have provided stands out as having been unique to my volunteer experience. Not included are the moments that have taken my breath away- a sunset here, a shared meal there… the small pleasures afforded on a daily basis that have made me so fond of this country and my particular circumstance.

There, of course, has been the odd occasion where I have been robbed, forced to move houses, or been treated with disrespect because of my age. And, to overlook these things would be foolish and give a misleading perception of my situation- but, these experiences are what have made the last year “real,” has given me perspective, and have served as lessons that I may not have learned otherwise.

So the year is over and a new one will start. The new class of volunteers has arrived- launching a journey that they will make their own. As for me, I will be celebrating both their entrance into the country, and the beginning of my second year.