Standing on a rock in the ocean -praying for my next step to appear, but content with where God has me.
I feel like I am standing in the ocean -with rocks popping up -forming a path. I have no idea when the next one will come up from the depths or where it will lead me, but I have faith in knowing that there is a plan. My job right now is to listen/observe/reflect on the past 28 years and know that this 2-month hiatus from status quo life is an opportunity for me to do just that. I have to find a way to strategically move forward/earn the credibility needed to shake things up/force perspective.
The trauma I experienced in San Francisco over 2 years ago and the work I have done with the University of Michigan since then opened doors to worlds unknown. I can sincerely say that I am a survivor/proud to have come this far -emotionally/mentally/spiritually and most recently geographically...
I am almost 3 weeks into my “hiatus” -smack dab in the South Pacific -west of Tahiti and north of New Zealand in Rarotonga -seat of government for the Cook Islands (15 in total), which were named after explorer Captain James Cook in 1773. My work with Global Volunteers began only a week ago. Since then I have worked with a number of kids -preschool to age 13 -reading/tutoring/playing soccer/swimming/paddling. Eliza taught me peekachu, Fin loves educational books, and sam walks around with paint on his face.
I have also had the opportunity to work with Mereana -who is essentially the one and only psychiatric nurse on the island. There is a lot of potential and at this point -I can see myself returning to Rarotonga to develop a relationship with Mereana and promote a better understanding regarding mental healthcare. The worlds of volunteer work/mental health advocacy/travel have officially collided.
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The world is your oyster.
-dad
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3 comments:
It's so nice to read your reflections, Stephanie. I wish you satisfaction and enjoyment working on Rarotonga. It's truly a special place, as I know you're aware, and your contributions surely will make a difference. I've greatly valued our opportunity to work with our wonderful Cook Islands hosts. We're very proud of our partnership with CIANGO, and the many, many volunteers who have walked your path.
Thanks so much for your spirit of service! Michele Gran, Global Volunteers co-founder.
I think you hit on something…there is something powerful about being on (virtually) a rock in the middle of a vast ocean, and coming to the realization that you are just a tiny speck. It puts the "reality" of a life on the East Coast or the Midwest or wherever else on the planet into stark perspective. I remember being on that same island just less than 2 years ago. My life now is different in ways I never could have imagined then, but I will always remember my time there as being some of the most beautiful and peaceful of my life.
I think you are doing amazing work, for yourself and for others. It's so important to just keep moving forward even if your forward momentum is at the pace of island time.
Much love,
erin
Reading your post brought me some peace Steph, so thank you for that. As for your worlds colliding, I think that's a wonderful thing. It means you are finding the place that is meant just for you to stand.
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