It's hard to believe that I'm leaving to start my Peace Corps journey in 4 days! I thought for sure when this time came that I would be a big ball of emotions, but I'm actually not feeling much of anything. I'm not excited. I'm not freaking out. I'm not nervous. I'm not anxious. I'm just kind of… blah.
I was explaining my total lack of emotions to one of my friends earlier this week and I think he hit the nail on the head. He said this journey is probably so huge and unlike anything I've ever experienced that it's impossible to tie any kind of emotion to it. His prediction: Once I've moved in with my new host family (alone) and I'm sitting in my bedroom after unpacking (alone) and I'm realizing I've actually moved to a foreign country (alone)… then the emotions will appear. I don't say this often, but I think he's right. So I've accepted my lack of emotions, knowing they will show up at some point, and am focusing instead on getting all those last minute tasks completed.
(Thank you, MCJ, for your insight, support and encouragement. You're awesome.)
Since I can't give everyone a weepy or excited farewell, I'm going to share my list of "what I'll miss most." I'm not going to include family members, friends or my sweet fluffy babies – that goes without saying. I'm also not going to include modern conveniences like a washer/dryer, hot showers or indoor plumbing – that's just too easy. So as I get ready to say goodbye to the United States and the people I love, I also want to say goodbye to the things I love:
- Gamecock football
- Hilton Head, SC (including the beach, the smell of ocean air, the sound of waves crashing, long walks on the beach and choosing which million dollar home I want, shrimp boats coming in at the end of the day, my favorite restaurants, early morning kayaking, and the view from the bridge)
- Coffee brewed just the way I like it
- South Carolina peaches
- The Daily Show
- The 4th of July
- High heels
- English
- Books and bookstores
- Condiments
Goodbye, things I love. And goodbye to each of you… my amazingly wonderful friends and loved ones. Don't forget to write! And maybe cheer for the Gamecocks in my absence!
P.S. All postcards, packages and love letters will be accepted here:
Susan Burkhart, PCT
29a Vazha Pshavela Avenue
0160, Tbilisi Georgia
Do NOT put Peace Corps Georgia in the address, as this may result in delayed delivery or require customs clearance fees.
"I don't say this often, but I think he's right."
ReplyDeleteHa... I have NO idea what you're talking about. ;)
Hopefully there will be a lot going on to keep you occupied at first. At least modern technology is around, so your blog and the internet and email will likely keep you in touch more than you know. I'm not a big Skyper, but maybe you'll have that option, too...?
Good luck, and, more importantly, HAVE FUN! Can't wait to read all about it.
Hmmm... I think I am emoting enough for two :-) Love you more than you know, Susan Elaine! Consider yourself wrapped warmly in love. You will be supported every moment by the love of all those dear to your heart.
ReplyDeleteLove,
Aunt Kathy