Lost In Translation

Final site visit was great and I am thankful to have a site mate. I am located in a very beautiful green farming area close to the Atlas which is noted for its olive trees and appears to be fairly clean and includes paved roads, clean water and electricity. The Mountain region and barrage are remarkably similar to the Rocky Mountains as I imagined. It

is modern and quite spread out with an approximate population of 10,000 people. Everyone is very gracious and excited about our presence in the village. We are lucky to have several Associations that are organized and open to our help. With the difficult and lack of language at this point, it creates communication gaps which then generates a major loss in translation. I have managed to communicate what is necessary and there is a lot of laughing between myself and my host sisters. One of the most challenging things lost in translation are the things we know or understand or think are funny are not understood by Moroccans. I am finding that Peace Corps has a very special name in Morocco. I was asked on the bus by tourists why I chose the Peace Corps path on a personal level. Reflecting on it, I am realizing that this question is deep and is a process in understanding further. I am learning a lot and faced with challenges that seem out of reach. Although my project and work in Morocco is unclear, I am confident that in time it will develop and relationships will grow. I am utilizing training and trying to find a rhythm that will help me come into balance as everything is new and overwhelming. I am looking forward to successfully completing my training by the end of May and starting my new journey as a full fledged Peace Corps volunteer.