Peace Corps Close of Service (CHED '08-'10)

Two years ago our group of Community Health and Economic Development trainees arrived in the mountain kingdom of Lesotho. We were clean, eager, and ready to do our part to help the Basotho nation through building capacity at the grassroots level. We trained together, worked in various fields including small business development, agriculture, youth, and HIV/AIDS, learned the language and culture, and eventually became functioning members of our respective villages. We've been met with blood, sweat, tears, and even babies but through it all we've persevered with unrelenting enthusiasm. This week CHED '08-'10 had our Close of Service Conference at Malealea Lodge and it was met with bittersweet emotions for all. The retreat offered us a chance to reflect upon our accomplishments, our failures, and the impacts we may or may not be able to recognize at present. Although we joined Peace Corps with the hope of bettering our host country, I think it is Lesotho that has done that favor for us. Each of us has changed in very unique ways and the friends I have made along the journey will always be with me. I wish the best of luck to every member of the group- those who departed Lesotho before us, those heading back to America, and those transferring to Vanuatu. As for me, I have decided to extend my contract with Peace Corps-Lesotho for a third year. There is still a lot of exciting work to be a part of at Baylor Pediatric HIV/AIDS clinic and I look forward to strengthening my relationships both outside and inside the Peace Corps circle. A big thank you to everyone back home and to those special people here in Lesotho for all the support and love. You have and will continue to be my rock.

With Love,

-Megan