So long, Peace Corps - It's been good to know you.

Yesterday, I got the news from Peace Corps Medical Review Board. They confirmed that I am not medically cleared to continue my PC service. It was a boiler-plate letter that failed to address the issues or explain how I was medically cleared 3 times in the last 4 years with identical medical indicators or give guidance on how I might get clearance in the future.

I’ve gone through the range of emotions – from shock to anger to self-pity to resentment and back again. I stewed about it for most of the day. I finally arrived at the peace of acceptance and gratitude for the 8 wonderful years I enjoyed as a Peace Corps volunteer. I was given the opportunity to use my skills and experience to serve and help a lot of people, to see parts of the world as a local instead of as a tourist and to wake up to adventure every day. Peace Corps gave me a vehicle and platform for all that, for which I will always be thankful. More than that, the many warm friendships I made during my service and the wonderful memories will always be with me. So, in that sense, I’m not leaving the Peace Corps. I will always be proud to be an RPCV – Returned Peace Corps Volunteer – one of the over 230,000 RPCVs who have served their country and the world in peace.

Time to move on. For now, I’ll put my construction skills to work as a volunteer at the local Habitat for Humanity and my love of nature (and gift for gab) as a volunteer Visitor Guide at a beautiful nearby park; and whatever other service opportunities present themselves. Plus, I’ll have more time to enjoy the company of my wonderful son, daughter-in-law and grandchildren and the gorgeous weather of SW Florida.