I continue my work with the local women to find sustainable projects that can bring skills, education or economic opportunities. With the troop draw-down approaching and the end of the ISAF presence in Afghanistan around the corner, money for these projects is hard to come by. The Afghan people don't seem to understand the concept that the Americans don't have any more money, as we have had very deep pockets for the last 10 years. We are trying to do more with less and direct them to their own government for the things they want and need. This is hard to do at times especially when their needs are so many.
I am looking forward to coming back to American soil for my 15 days of mid-tour R&R. I almost forget what its like not to have to put on my battle rattle to get into a car and go somewhere or not to look at every vehicle that drives by wondering if it might contain a bomb. Its going to be a little strange to be back but SO wonderful to see my family.
The team that will replace us here will be beginning their training in the next few weeks. Hard to believe it but we will be in the home stretch soon and they will be arriving here before we know it and we will be packing our rucksacks to head home for good. I am trying very hard to live in the now and bloom where I have been planted....
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
- Margaret Mead
- Margaret Mead
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