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May 2, 2004 - One of the nice things about being in the Peace Corps is that you have the opportunity to meet some incredibly nice, socially conscious, caring and fun people. Our group of volunteers, numbering about 35 now, had our Mid-Service conference this week. One of my most enjoyable experiences here.
It was held in Subic Bay, an old US navy base that has been converted into an industrial/business zone. |
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Subic Bay has great infrastructure for business. It looks good, there are a lot of Filipinos using the tennis, swimming and recreation areas. Shopping is a popular activity because there are no taxes imposed on imported goods. I visited a jungle survival camp with interesting old school instructors (real snake eaters) and a beautiful marine park.
It was really nice to visit with other PC volunteers. For all the cliches of Peace Corps being a "life changing experience", it is probably true for many of us. |
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For all the inital enthusiasm of being a "development worker," I think many of us have decided that it is a questionable name. Many of our "development" ideas and projects have failed. Some have had success. I think many of us now share the feeling that building personal relationships with the people is the best thing we can do in our Peace Corps jobs. |
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After spending most of my last year in a rural community, the colors, tastes and sights of Manila are almost overwhelming. The variety in choice for shopping are amazing. Manila can really be a nice city and a lot of fun. The variety of things from cable TV to eating establishments are just amazing to behold. All hail capitalism.
In my previous life in the US, I questioned much of my consumption. I realized I had too much stuff. Now, I have been without things and I realize books, music and entertainment provide mental stimulation and enjoyment. Without those things, my life would be boring (well, more boring). I am much more comfortable now about using resources to make my life more interesting. I still feel guilty and want to hide from my community/host family some of what I do. (would they care? I don't know) I would feel too guilty to do much traveling because I know people in my community could not live like that. |
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