Most Ecuadorians I've met are willing to lend a helping hand, and that's a value I want to carry with me for the rest of my life.
Of course, a list of the people I've met on my journey would be remiss if it didn't include your class! You are all so curious, thoughtful, and capable. It's been such a joy to do our video calls. Although our time together as a Reach The World partnership is coming to an end, the adventure won't. There are adventures to be had every single day. Some of my favorite memories here have been trying a new lunch spot or seeing an animal I'd never seen before. I bet that with a little bravery, you'll find lots of adventures in your own neighborhood.
I still have about five months to go in my grant, and I'm really looking forward to teaching more English and learning more Spanish. I love the life I have here. It wouldn't be possible without being a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant, so I am eternally grateful to have been selected for this prestigous opportunity. Did you know that Fulbright was founded on the idea that intercultural exchange is a way for people to build peaceful relationships? The program was designed to "increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and other nations". As a Fulbright grantee, I feel the enormous responsibility of representing the U.S., but I try to remember that it's not my responsibility alone. It's all of ours. The next time you see a neighbor in need, or you're learning about a friend's heritage, try to listen. Take it all in. Something I've learned from my time here in Ecuador is that the smallest acts of kindness can make the biggest impacts.
Keep being the wonderful people you are!
