So, why?

Two days away from what will probably be the craziest experience of my life, so far anyway. Nervous, scared, excited, anxious are just a few of the emotions swirling through my head. But the biggest question I have gotten since announcing my adventure is why? Why do you want to do it? Why so far away? Why now?

I guess I should back up a bit before answering this most popular question. In July of last year, a great friend from Purdue called me up and said, "Hey Al, what's your plan after you are done with your Masters?" She eventually presented me with an amazing opportunity, of which I accepted. We leave on Sunday for Thailand, specifically to the Mahasarakham province of Northeast Thailand. Once there, we will be living and working as volunteers in Plaboo Village, a farming community. Our main function will be to teach English and various other lessons to the children of the village, while also teaching our knowledge of environmental science and sex education to the older villagers. Our hope is to create lessons with the older volunteers and villagers that can be continued once we leave.

Plaboo is primarily a rice farming community. A few years ago, a clothing business was set up in the village. The villagers purchase cotton from local farmers and create bags, purses, clothes and other items to sell locally. This business enables the community to stay together when they are in the off season for rice farming. It has been a welcome addition to their lifestyle.

So, why? First and foremost, I want the experience. I want to completely immerse myself in a different culture, a different way of life. Many have asked why we don't just do something here, in the U.S. My answer to that is I want the challenge. I want the uncomfortableness. I could, and hopefully will, volunteer in the U.S. upon my return. However, in that situation, I could always go home to my comfort zone afterwards and sleep in my bed. This experience will be a total lifestyle change. I hope to learn as much as possible from the people I meet and the challenges I face. I want to come away from this with new perspectives and appreciations. I also can't wait to pass on our own knowledge to the villagers. I hope we can have some sort of positive effect on their lives. I have talked about wanting to do something like this for so long, now it's time to walk the walk.

I hope to journal on all the experiences we encounter, from the good to the bad, through the tough spots, the uncomfortable moments, and the amazing adventures. Please follow along, it is sure to be a bumpy and spectacular ride!