Why?

I lied. I'm not half way across the world right now. I'm an my Aunt's house in Toledo, Ohio. I think it is important to clarify why it is I will be a full days journey from anything I have ever known in my 24 years on this earth for the next year. Like most recent graduates, I have spent most of my post-academic life applying for jobs. During this stressful time in my life, I contemplated what it is I wanted to do with my life. I found that the only three things I really needed were independence, adventure, and to accomplish something. That's when all of my applications I had filled out became useless, because it wasn't anything I wanted to do. As I was deciding between joining AmeriCorps and the Air Force, I found out about the Young Adult Service Corps. I could immerse myself in a new culture, live a simple life, be independent, have the opportunity to significantly improve the lives of others, and have the responsibility of representing my church and country internationally. This combined with the support of many people whom I respect is why I am doing this.

The big trip nears

Part of me wants to write something poetic today about embarking on a great journey. However, I'm just not that good of a writer, and there are more important matters at hand. First thing I want to do a thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading this. Seriously, you aren't reading this for any reasons other than an interest in what I am doing. People who support me when they go home, and nobody is watching, are absolutely inspiring to me.
With a week and half remaining, I am getting more and more nervous about leaving. I am seeing those I love for the last time in a year. Thank God for skype. The more I think about all my first world comforts I will be leaving behind is starting to make me more and more nervous.
Something did happen last week though that made me realize that everything would be okay. I was in Kentucky on mission with Christ the King, Stone Ridge. There I had the opportunity to help build some construction projects. It was hot and humid. There was no tv or internet. The accommodations were simple. I shared a room with 6 other men. Yet, by the end of the week, many people spoke about how rewarding each and every day was. I agreed. There is just something about an honest days work amongst good company that can't be beat. I am lucky to be able to do it for a whole year!

Okay, next time you hear from me, I will be half a world away!
Andy