Upon our arrival in Armenia last June, we were led into an auditorium where we were loudly welcomed by 40 other second year Volunteers. Well, a couple days ago another 1st year volunteer mentioned that in another 6 months we are going to be up on that stage as the "Newbies" come in. Seems strange as most of us feel like "newbies" still. So I guess this is a good time to reflect on the past 6 months in-country.Odd as it seems, probably the most important book I have read since my arrival is a murder mystery, Child 44. Set in Russia during the 1950's (when I was adjusting to the wooden rulers of the Catholic nuns at Holy Cross grade school), it gives a very poignant portrayal of just how unsettling life in the Soviet world could be. In a world where fear predominated, keeping information to oneself and hiding problems was important for ones safety. Well, the Soviet Union may have crumbled in the late 90's but they surely left their cultural heritage behind. (Probably not too different from the Puritan influence in America, although we seem to have outgrown it of late *;o).
By reading that novel, I have finally been able to come to grips with the what show up for my American eyes as a totally dysfunctional business culture where information is closely held and collaboration is reserved for family functions. And above all, "walk around the elephant in the middle of the room." ( Not that Corporate America doesn't have a smidgen of that, too.) The operative mode is to "circle the wagons" and wait for the next grant of American funding to continue paying salaries.
After 6 months in the country and 3 months at my work site, I think I have finally realized that this is "what is" and my efforts are not really going to change it. When we came to our work sites, we were assigned to one of four sectors: language, environment, health or business. Our sector is actually called "CBD" or Community/ Business Development. So I believe my next year and a half is going to be "CD," letting the "B" takes its own course.
The photos above are a good example of Community Development. One of the second year volunteers has directed a lot of her efforts to supporting a Harvest Festival where the local residents of nearby villages could gather and celebrate. There is even some friendly competition for the best presentations and food preparation. As you can see, the children also have a great time dressing up, dancing and singing.
I have recently become acquainted with both an art school for youngsters as well as an art academy for older students and am hoping next year to help promote their work. The current leaders of my city are the products of the Soviet times but the young people will be Armenia's future. Whatever I can do to enhance their hope and confidence are seeds for the future. I think I just found my New Garden for the next couple years.
