Thank you!

I just wanted to say thank you all for all your encouraging words and support. While this trip has had a few more frustrations than I had expected, I think overall it's going to be a worthwhile experience that I'll never forget. It's definitely helping me to learn a lot more about myself (and question things about myself I thought to be true), which I think everyone needs to experience at least once in his or her life. Also, we've learned that we are not alone in our disappointments regarding the internships- the other interns/researchers seem to be having some of the same thoughts. We have a meeting today with Dr. Joseph, who originally set the whole thing up, to discuss the problems we are having. If nothing is resolved, then we will leave. While I'm not really the type to give up, I am in this amazing country with so many amazing organizations doing wonderful things, and I can find some place to focus my efforts and make a difference.

As I write this, Mike is wearing one of our Idealists United "Save the Humans" shirts, which I think is very poignant. That's what we came here to do, in some way or another, and any little bit counts. While I may not still have the mindset I've had since I was a little girl, that I could save the world, I can do SOMETHING. So I will. If not here, somewhere else. I may not leave a lasting mark on Rwanda, but at least it will leave a lasting mark on me (and that may possibly be the corniest thing I've EVER said in my life!!).

So thanks again, I love you all, and keep the emails and comments coming :)

Amahoro,
Steph xoxo