Back at it

Kiss me goodbye, I'm defying gravity

3/13/14

It wasn't until I hit my 6 month mark of living in Nepal that I realized, “This is it”. I have a better understanding of what my work here actually consists of, and a much better understanding of the commitment I made back when I decided to join the Peace Corps. As with many things in life, it's been quite an experience and I could say that it differs from the expectations I had, but as truthful as I can be, I don't think I came with any expectations at all.

I suppose one assumption I did arrive here with that I took for granted was that my safety would be assured. Unfortunately, my safety isn't guaranteed as many things are not guaranteed in life. That is one of the risks of joining the Peace Corps, or running a marathon, or riding a bike, or crossing the street: the risk of the adventure. But whose to say it isn't worth the risk? Perhaps people who suffer the consequences, but one will never know until he or she tries. Disclaimer: no I'm not dead; I am perfectly fine.

Although it should have been obvious to me, it wasn't until now that I realize the sacrifices I've made in deciding to move to Nepal. With the majority of my service remaining ahead of me, I now see what I need to let go of in order to continue forward with this journey. And so, forward into the future I go, letting go of bits and pieces of who I once “was” for who I am to “be”.

With that said, I want to tell all my friends and family back home how gravely important you all are to me in creating who I am and who I want to be. Your love and nourishment mean a lot to me, especially in those days when I feel alone (it happens to all of us, no?).

Sooooo, what I'm tryin' to say eeezz..... letters and care packages?!?!

Just kidding, but the care packages would be niiiice. Your support and small friendly reminders have such a great impact on my well being here (sincerely) and I don't want to do this without you all.

Here's my new official address, as told by my host-father. My sister-in-law works at the post office, so God-willing, all should work out!

Christine Bora Lee

c/o Kadaga Bahadur Bhandari

Manpur VDC, Ward no. 1

Dang District, Rapti Anchal Nepal

Desirables:

*love letters (with cool facts I should know about things that have happened while away)

*protein bars (SO IMPORTANT)

dried seaweed (not very important)

dried fruit (like banana chips)

-blueberries, cranberries, and raspberries don't exist here either... think: berries and cream.

*whole wheat, whole grain ANYTHING

*brown rice/purple rice/wild grain rice

emergen-C or vitamin C stuff

*guitar capo, guitar learning guides (I bought a saano guitar heh)

The (*) is something I would reallllly like. Also, my room is sort of overloading with stuff and there is no room to put junk, so please no need to send too much stuff/random eeeish!

God bless America, California, and Nepal while he's at it!

Love and Peace upon thy World from,

Bora

PS- If anyone has travel plans to Asia or anywhere, let me know. Anyone down to visit Nepal is more than welcomed. (Come to me.)