Plans Before Departure

This past week I was notified of my departure date to Nicaragua: December 11! It is bittersweet news as I process the reality of this transition more and more. In recent weeks, I have been trying to become more present to the realities of being at home, while making sure to remain future-oriented. We were once told this journey of an international experience is to be future-oriented. What does this mean? Aside from making logistical preparations (loan deferment, vaccinations, paperwork for a Nicaraguan visa, etc.), I believe it also means facing the reality of where I am now in the process, while looking forward, in hope, to the joys and challenges that await. The joys of being reunited with community-mates, being in Nicaragua, being with Nicaraguans, meeting 2nd year JVs, getting to know our "home" for the next two years. And the challenges: saying goodbye to the physical presence of family for a longer period than I ever have before, adjusting to this distance, leaving behind many luxuries and conveniences (which will most likely bring frustration - and a need to convert to new ways - in the initial months of being away), and planting my feet someplace new where I will be a guest.

What I am hoping to do is embrace the messiness, uncertainty, paradox, bittersweetness. As I attempt to prepare mentally, emotionally, spiritually, logistically for this journey, I hope to still remain present to where I am now. As I continue fundraising, getting paperwork together, learning more about Nicaragua and JVC's four values (simple living, social justice, spirituality, community), I hope to spend time with family and friends here in the States while also working part-time for day-to-day expenses as well as other anticipated pre- and post- JVC expenses.

For a fundraising update, I plan to close my fundraising campaign a week after my Nov. 16 half-marathon fundraiser, when I will also begin to wean myself off of parts of my lifestyle which I will be changing in Nicaragua, including Facebook and phone usage. JVC staff shared this article with volunteers as we discern how we might live simply in relation to technology: http://www.theminimalists.com/internet/ . I am still reflecting on how I might go about this. Thank you again to those who have partnered with me in this vision and mission. We have reached 96% of the $3,000 goal! As I continue to fundraise, I humbly ask if you might also invite those you know to partner with me, you, JVC, and those we try to be in solidarity with.

While this may be one of my last blog posts until December, I do hope we can stay in touch before then. Please comment here or email me (ainterianonic14@gmail.com). I would love to hear any recommendations you may have for me as to how I might better prepare for living out JVC's values (social justice, simple living, spirituality, community) particularly with regard to any readings, videos, websites, people, thoughts, or strategies to explore. I would also be open to (and enjoy!) conversations (virtual or in-person) about any aspect of this preparation and experience.

Thank you for your companionship :-)

Peace,
Alex