International Dilemmas

Filtering, Heaven’s Reward Fallacy (Past Post) … That is what is going on in my head these days.  What is happening in Mali has not even trickled down and affected me yet, but I am still worried about it.  It has sent me in a dash to find all available back-up options… which is only making me more stressed as I realize I am qualified for almost zero placements. <— That is not distorted thinking, that is the truth.  Not to mention, the opportunities I might be qualified for will have several hundred applicants more qualified than me.This explains why it’s so difficult, and its not the first time I have read these words.

I have to face the truth… Although I would be a great addition for any domestic job, I haven’t put in the time at the bottom.  In college I worked hard in many avenues related to my degree (Psychology) and did well.  However, since college I have roamed, and played, and spent all my time traveling. While I do not regret those experiences, it looks pretty flaky on my CV. Internationally, I know I would be a great asset but I don’t have any international experience and no one will pick me over John Smith with 5+ years doing relief work in third-world insert country here.  See my dilemma??

Not to lessen Peace Corps, but this is why the organization is so fantastic! It takes 20-50 somethings and gives them a shot! You need minimal experience, but a whole lot of motivation, heart, and persistence - I surely have this – and they give you your chance! Peace Corps, for me, is a way to expand my skills and knowledge, learn cultures, grow as an independent woman and HELP THE WORLD!  While also giving me the experience I need to obtain the before mentioned jobs — nothing is truly altruistic. Oh, and did I mention that I won’t have to pay for it??? It is so frustrating how many volunteer/intern positions there are out there that cost $4,000-$15,000 + for a basic 8 week program!

Now, family and friends don’t start getting concerned at my current psyche. I’m not trying to be dramatic, and I am not hopeless, just concerned.  All I can do is put in the time and effort for God to open some doors and guide us through the right one. I just ask for your prayers that He’s with us on this one and we do what is right.  Brett and I have decided that whatever happens, we are leaving the country July 1st.  Hopefully with Peace Corps, but I am coming around the ideas of different options. Just the other day Brett found this PERFECT opening with Invisible Children… I would love to go to Uganda :)

Who knows what is going to happen over the next 59 days – All I know is that I am going to stay as prepared as possible for any and all outcomes. That is all I can do!