Close of Service

All my friends in country are all safe but are very worried that their country's development has just taken a huge step backward. They are a resilient people though, and I know that they will be okay. I'm hoping I will still be able to work with the silk weavers, even if it is not from Madagascar. I would like to re-instate if PC reopens, otherwise, maybe I'll be able to make buying trips to M'car once I find some markets for their product in the states. One way or the other I do plan to see my site again even if it is only to say a proper goodbye.

We just learned our options to transfer yesterday and had until the end of the day to prioritize our choices. My sector had several availabilities in West Africa but all require French to varying degrees. After my experience in Madagascar, where I was just at the point (after 13 months) where I could speak Malagasy enough to work effectively, I decided that working for just one more year in a similar grass-roots situation would be a too-frustrating experience for me. So I decided to close my service with Peace Corps, and will finish all my paperwork today.

Peace Corps has been really amazing with all of this, and I have so much respect for the organization. They flew in a team of people to help with our evacuation. I passed all my medical exams and psych exam (with an NU alum!), have actually never been healthier, and am surrounded by very supportive people, not to mention all of my volunteer friends. PC put us up in a really nice hotel here in Johannesburg and after I finish my paperwork I'll have a few days to take in the sights before going to Cape Town. From there I'll make an itinerary.

While I'm looking forward to travel, I'm not in the mood to do this. I'm really just taking up time until the economic situation in America improves enough so I can get a job or until the political situation improves in Madagascar and I can go back.

I really appreciate all the emails and posts of support. It means so much to know that I have couches to sleep on back in the states. I can't wait to see everyone again, and will let you know when I'm heading home. In the meantime, please continue to send positive thoughts Madagascar's way.

Tena Malahelo

Peace Corps is evacuating Madagascar. I leave tomorrow. I'll update you when I know more. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/7942252.stm