On the eve of my departure, I am still not sure how I feel about leaving Belize. A part of me is looking forward to going back to family and friends yet another part of me is sad to be leaving behind all the wonderful people I have met, the culture and the work.
When I first arrived in Belize I never thought I would last the full 3 months let alone even think about staying longer. I knew that eventually I would adjust but I figured that by December I would be anxious to leave.
Everything about Belize has been a blessing and a life changing experience. There have been a few negative experiences and while I wish never to re-live them, I know that they have, in their own way, added to my Belize experience.
I have met some wonderful people and made some good friends. I won’t name every one but I do feel the following deserve a special mention –
Miss Lindy My placement leader – who did more than just look after me at work. She was interested in my whole Belize experience and gave me all the support, encouragement and freedom that I needed to make the most of my time.
Mr Dakers He took on the role of placement leader while Miss Lindy was ill. If he had not been there to help me through the first week in Belize I doubt I would have settled in that quickly.
Miss Emily My host for the last two months of my time in Belize. I have already blogged about her here. If you haven’t read that posting, I suggest you do so and then you will understand one of the reasons why I enjoyed living with her.
Miss Carol The youth worker volunteer who has injected so much energy into her placement. Very good at listening and giving advice and making me aware of just how many options I have, or don’t have, or could have 🙂
Lyndsey aka Slimsey This woman shares all my fears and phobias…even the most irrational ones! In my view one of the strongest toughest volunteers in Belize at the moment.
Miss Sarah A very focused volunteer who made me think a lot about very many issues. Had some challenging and thought provoking conversations with her.
Yuki A Japanese volunteer who I met at the MHD and spent some good times with
There are of course loads of other people, everyone I met has in one way added to my time in Belize, but I could be here forever and there is still much packing to be done.
I do have to say this though….I shall always laugh when I think about – Stupid Dog, Uncle, 24 Hour Man, Spooky Girls, Drunky or was it Junky? and of course.. OCM.