I am on my way to Malaysia to volunteer with eHomemakers (eH)!  For quite some time, I have been eager to apply my studies in Global Affairs and enthusiasm for volunteerism to assist a developing community.  It is a surreal experience that this ambition is becoming a reality.

On my way to KL!

When I expressed my interest and concerns about taking this new turn in my life, a dear friend of mine suggested I read The Alchemist because it is a tale about a person on a journey to pursue a dream.  The part of the book that made a lasting impression on me was the interaction between the book’s main character, Santiago, and a merchant he meets.  The merchant tells Santiago about the dreams he would like to achieve but confesses that he is resistant to change and fearful of attaining his goals.  The merchant does not want to reach his full potential; he is content with having aspirations but not realizing them.

When I was finished the book, I continued to think about the merchant.  The things he desired were achievable, yet he decided he was better off as he was.  I wished he had just tried, and whether he was successful or not, he would have learned something along the way.

I decided that I would follow my own advice for the merchant and try to experience something I had been thinking about for a long time.   After many months of researching and planning, here I am.

"Welcome to Malaysia" sign in the KL airport

I feel very fortunate to have supportive friends and loved ones as I embark upon this new adventure.  Thanks for lending a listening ear and an encouraging word.