My mom is my inspiration for joining the Peace Corps. She was a strong, loving person and had a tremendous heart; always putting other peoples' needs before her own. She was the type of person that said hello with warm smiles and sweet cups of chai. She was more than a mother of six, but a friend to anyone who needed a friend. She was also my teacher and, because of her, I learned to stand strong with my convictions. Within my first semester of college, my mother became ill. The doctors said it was breast cancer and that it spread to her lungs, kidneys, and liver. They also said that if it had been detected early, she might have had a better chance of recovery. Knowing that my mom had the resources to monitor her health was tough and, for a while, I felt guilty not monitoring her health as much as I could have. Fortunately, through faith and through the love and support of my family, I was able to mend my wounds and develop ways to honor my mom.
In May 2004, I participated in my first fight against cancer walk. I initially chose to walk for my mom; however, I ended up walking for millions of people that have been touched by cancer. It was a cathartic experience, listening to survivor stories and talking to others just like me. The walk was empowering and, most importantly, I felt that my actions made a difference. It turned out that our Nation’s cancer rate dropped that year, and it continues to drop due to the development of new treatments and prevention programs. I wanted to continue to make a difference, so I signed up for the next event and for the one after that. In my heart, I needed to participate in these events not only for my mom, but because they were the right thing to do and I felt great doing them. Someday, I hope to feel the same way about the Peace Corps.
My friends and family always ask why I want to join the Peace Corps, and I usually say that it's an opportunity of a lifetime. Sure there may be moments of great stress, emotional and physical demands, but I know in my heart that the rewards will outweigh the costs. My mom used to always tell me that you can do anything, as long as you have pure intentions and the right reasons. As a volunteer, I hope to help others with the same love and compassion that I was given growing up. In the process, I want to better myself, so that someday I may inspire my own children to do what makes them happy.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
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