I have to postpone telling stories with cultural observations and impressions because right now I’m just bursting with enthusiasm about the election. Barack Obama is an inspiring man, and I am so proud to be an American abroad serving under his administration for the next two years.
Peace Corps gathered in Neiafu to watch the polls, and when the results were announced there were pumped fists, tears of joy, and a standing ovation. Some volunteers walked below the restaurant deck and just started jumping in the ocean fully clothed. I followed their lead, and soon there were over 20 of us floating in the salty sea, soaking up the moment. Splashing and laughing we experienced the breathless beauty of a Tongan sunset, and I felt my heart filled with excitement; As I venture on my own new beginnings I carry a restored belief in my country and hope for the future.
Sopping wet we climbed back up the deck to find that the tables had been cleared & the Tongan radio was blaring. And so we danced.
2 comments:
picture your tongan celebration times millions and you MIGHT have an idea of what it was like back at home...i agree with every word you said and i couldn't have said it more beautifully :-) off to drink away the residual pain left by my teacher that made me cry today (ah the life of a grad student) BUT i will be writing you this weekend...perhaps tomorrow while i am suffering the consequences of not drinking more than once a month :-) I MISS YOU FRIEND! peace, love and lots of happiness...jeno
NOT COOL! I've already cried twice up until this point, and you just made me lose it! I am so proud and happy for you to be able to be doing such an amazing thing at this point in your life! What an amazing day in our history!! I love and miss you tons! keep up the blogs, I'll remember to keep kleenex by from now on.
Britt Dawg
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