The first 100 days of a presidential term took on symbolic significance during Franklin D. Roosevelt's administration, the period is considered a benchmark to measure the early success of a president and what he is able to accomplish during his term.
So with that being said I though I'd assess my first 100 days here in Belize. Where do I begin....my first 60 days, give or take was spent in Succotz in the Cayo district and it was quite an amazing experience as you all saw in previous posts. I learned a great deal while training in Succotz and was able to a have more intimate experience with the people there. Engaging them in conversation quite easily, they were intrigued about us and wanted to learn about who we were and what we were all about, as we were with them.
Village life there was quite lovely. Of course, there are its downsides; people often know "everything" that is going on in their village. So at times that got somewhat overwhelming. Considering, I learned a lot about the school system in Belize and how much of the culture in Belize is still so traditional. Families live very close to each other throughout their lives and its very common to see the wife tending things at home and husband being the bread winner.
After those 8 weeks in Succotz I came away with a great deal of knowledge and tools from Peace Corps to start my service...or so I thought. I've been in Orange Walk Town for almost 3 weeks now and it is vastly different than Succotz. It's population is about 40,000 compared to Succotz's 3,500. Right now I am working with the Ministry of Education at the District Education Center in Orange Walk. It is a complete office setting and when you think of Peace Corps, the first thing that comes to mind is: thatch huts, no water, no electricity and roughing it! But, being in this "big" town and very close to Mexico you see how it is more progressive. Women work, schooling is important to many families for boys, as well as girls. And those taboo things you can't talk about it small villages, is still difficult here, but you can push the envelope slightly more here.
There is still a ton to learn. I am still not quite sure how I will be utilized with my work partners and I know that in due time roles will soon be defined. Right now there is a considerable amount of time listening, observing, and on the run learning.
So, as for my assessment of myself: Still much to LEARN! And its going to be ongoing throughout the many months that I am here. I think slowly I have integrated pretty well within my communities, having a Hispanic background helps a lot, I am often thought of as Belizean until I open my mouth and speak. I am slowly getting to know my community and the people that live here and the people I work with and things are working out comfortably.
Well, cheers to the next 100 days! I can't believe its been that long already...miss you all! And have a wonderful Fourth of July weekend!! I'm going to be celebrating Belizean Style! :)
