One of my new best friends in DC is an RPCV from Burkina Faso. There is an unwritten rule when you meet a RPCV, that you're instantly friends. They understand you and you are able to talk to them about the crazy things you experienced as a PCV and they'll actually listen! That's one of the best things about RPCV friends. They listen and they understand. And they can add all kinds fun anecdotes to your stories and try to one up you on the worst experience, the sickest you've been, the grossest thing you had to eat.
Tuesday night after going to Trivia, we all went back to my house to watch the NBA final game. During the game, we had a conversation where we discussed the people going overseas who were upset about not getting the "village experience". They wanted to live in a mud hut and experience life like someone in the rural area of the country. Now, to us, former peace corps volunteers, this is hilarious. As he's telling me he's having trouble because he's laughing so hard and I can't even respond because of the hilarity of the situation. Let me explain, when we were living in the village, taking cold showers and pooping in a hole in the ground, all we wanted was to be in a hotel room with a hot shower and a toilet that you can sit on. I remember during orientation for new volunteers, they told me they hoped they were in a village like mine and were really excited to get out of the plush houses they were staying in. I looked them dead in the eye and said "ENJOY IT!". I understand the desire for adventure and to really know your community, but dear god, please enjoy the time you have with your hot showers and flushing toilets!! Don't be upset if you get placed in a town and have an actual bathroom, you will get TONS of visitors! I loved my village, not because of how rural it was, or that I had to experience many, many new things, but because of the people who were there. Surround yourself with amazing people and your experience will be great, no matter if you have a indoor sitting toilet or a latrine outside.
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