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| Ah, Robert Frost... |
For those of you who read my previous post, you will know that I am sitting at a kind of juncture-point in my life. I have just finished a masters degree in Intercultural Communications in the Philippines. My research is done, my thesis published, and my degree conferred. However, I am still here in the Philippines. I've used these past several months following my graduation to gain more practical experience and explore a field that is of particular interest to me, Human Development---particularly with the issues of human trafficking and exploitation. While the time spent has been good and a great opportunity, I have recently had a strong and persistent feeling of release--as if I am being reassured that, its alright to start writing a new chapter. I am realizing that my time here is quickly drawing to an end.
Looking back, I have lived a full and meaningful three years here. I have made friends who have become my family--people who have both seen me at my best and at my worst, yet they are my friends all the same. I've crossed cultural bridges which I, three-years ago, didn't even know existed. On the same note, I have eaten foods that I, three years ago, did not even know were able to be eaten. There are so many unique experiences that have shaped me in how I think and understand myself, and--not to sound dramatic, but--I know that I will never be the same.
However, the question remains, "Where do I go from here?"
I have certainly given the matter a good deal of thought. I've given it incessant thought, as a matter of fact, but thinking does little good. On my good days, thinking about it fills my with hope of opportunities and new adventures to come. However, on my bad days, these thoughts fill me with this lacrimose and tiring feeling that maybe I missed a turn or two somewhere along the journey. It is the feeling that I should have had a well-defined destination in mind from the beginning and the simultaneous sense of regret that I didn't.
To tell you the truth, I honestly would love to work for USAID (United States Agency for International Development) in Human Development. I want to work with the predators and victims of trafficking and sexual exploitation in Southeast Asia. I would like to understand them, tell their stories, and then aid in the broader developmental struggle to holistically restore both groups.
I believe a Master's Degree in Christian Communication has a beautiful place in all of this. I just need to find out where to put it to use as I continue this riotous journey called life. And so my question (and fervent prayer) remains, "Where do I go from here?"
