#Lipstick Tips
From lost to found:
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July 1, 2024
finding purpose in Madagascar.
A journey of self discovery and growth
Overall, I had so much fun. No, that’s not a good headline! In general, I had fun! But “fun” doesn’t quite capture it. Let me break it down for you.
From thrilling adventures to unforgettable moments.
My life is all roses and rosé, if you get what I mean. I woke up one day and thought, something is missing. I know why I felt this way. My whole life, I have been expecting people to do things that I have been imagining in my head. It never occurred to me that they might say no and do otherwise.
What if the one you want just stops wanting you? What happens to all the castles you had been building in the air? It’s funny to think that if you accept to follow the waves, you’ll never encounter a storm.
I lost my purpose in life. I don’t even think I had it in the first place. “What is my purpose in life?” is a question I have been battling with. Perhaps the answer is somewhere, but I can’t see it.
Losing direction can feel disorienting and overwhelming. However, it’s in these moments of uncertainty that we often find the most profound growth. It’s important to remember that finding purpose is a journey, not a destination. Sometimes, the answers come when we least expect them, through new experiences. So, even in the midst of confusion, I found hope!
While I was browsing through, I came across this program, GVI, where you can volunteer to travel to various parts of the world and engage in different activities. You can teach, conduct research, help with women’s empowerment, or promote gender equality, among other things.
This opportunity caught my eye because it combines travel with meaningful work. Volunteering with GVI offers the chance to make a positive impact while experiencing new cultures and meeting diverse people. It’s not just about helping others; It’s also about personal growth and gaining a broader perspective on the world. I was so excited about the possibility of contributing to something greater than myself and making a real difference that I emailed them immediately and booked my next trip, which was in less than a week!
Madagascar
Madagascar was where I chose to go, to teach English to everyone from young kids to adults. I was eager to immerse myself in a new culture and share my knowledge. The thought of helping others learn a valuable skill while experiencing the unique beauty and diversity of Madagascar filled me with excitement and anticipation.
A wonderful sunset warmly welcomed me in Madagascar. I could see happy kids running by as the car passed through the villages. All of a sudden, I had a small sigh of satisfaction, but it wasn’t quite there yet. I arrived at a place known as ‘the base.’ My first question was, ‘Where is the building?’ A slight worry popped up: ‘What is going to happen to my luggages?’
The place seemed quite different from what I had imagined. Instead of a large, imposing structure, there were modest huts scattered around. The air was filled with the sounds of nature. birds chirping, leaves rustling in the gentle breeze. Despite my initial concern, I felt a sense of calm beginning to wash over me.
As I explored further, I was greeted by friendly faces, each offering a warm smile and a helping hand. The simplicity of the surroundings was unexpectedly comforting, and I started to feel a connection to this place.
In the evening, we gathered around the base, sharing stories and laughter under the starlit sky. It was then that I realized this journey was not just about the destination, but about the experiences and people I would encounter along the way. The initial worry and uncertainty faded, replaced by a sense of adventure and anticipation for the days to come.
The story begins when I took my first step up to the girls’ dormitory. There were 40 steps to where we slept, and I counted each one! When I reached the room, I couldn’t believe my eyes. I was not in Milan; I was in Madagascar. The bathrooms were down the stairs, requiring 80 steps back and forth for each visit.
I found a strange satisfaction in counting the stairs each time I used them. I kept wondering, what if one day I went downstairs and there were only 39 steps instead of 40? What would I do then?
Each day brought new surprises and challenges, but also a growing sense of adventure. The simplicity of the surroundings and the routine of counting steps became a comforting ritual. It was a reminder of where I was and how far I had come, both physically and mentally.
All around me, everything started relating to my life. There’s no point in running away from your problems; they’ll follow you everywhere. But my problems took a while before catching up with me in Madagascar.
I stayed, taught, and ate like the rest. I followed the rules, and believe me, you couldn’t tell if I was Malagasy or not. You’d be surprised at how well I adapted!
Living among the locals, I embraced their customs and traditions. Each day, I grew more connected to the community, finding joy in simple tasks and interactions. Teaching the children became a source of immense satisfaction, and sharing meals with new friends felt like being part of a big family.
Gradually, I realized that facing my problems head-on, in this distant land, gave me a new perspective. The sense of belonging and the fulfillment I found in everyday activities helped me heal and grow stronger. Madagascar wasn’t just a place I visited; it became a part of me, and I, a part of it.
The vibrant culture and the warmth of the people enveloped me, making each moment memorable. From the bustling markets filled with colorful fabrics and spices to the serene landscapes of rice paddies and baobab trees, everything felt like an adventure.
I learned to dance to traditional music and even picked up some Malagasy phrases, which always brought smiles to the faces around me, especially when I’d say ‘Tsysy Malagasy’ meaning ‘not Malagasy’ to indicate that I am not from Madagascar. They always confused me for one. I learned so much. I could tell the students words like ‘finished’ (vita), ‘write’ (soratra), ‘slowly’ (mora mora) and ‘understand’ (mazava).”
The challenges I faced were not just obstacles but opportunities for growth. The community’s resilience and resourcefulness inspired me to look at my own problems differently. I realized that the support and love from those around me, even in a place so far from home, could make all the difference.
As my time in Madagascar drew to a close, I knew I was leaving with more than just memories. I carried with me a renewed sense of self and a deeper understanding of what truly matters in life. The experience had transformed me, and I was ready to face whatever came next with an open heart and a fearless spirit.
