The fast moving train

I jumped on board of a fast moving train with US-Brazil Connect.  The organization is like an infant learning to walk but one of those happy infants that never really cries and is eager to learn and grow with the support of anyone offering.  The first weekend of training with all the other Team Leads I was both excited to be part of this journey but also slightly scared of it.  I looked around the room and was overwhelmed by the leadership that was present.  These leaders had such diverse backgrounds and life experiences and showed such confidence that I felt somewhat intimated by them.  I was thrilled to learn from all of them and add value based on my own experiences and it confirmed I was in the right place. 

I recall having a fear about being vegan and sharing this with all of them.  I recently had decided to be vegan based on many years of health issues. As I wandered down this new path I was not as support by family and friends as I thought I would be.  I was often ridiculed for the decision or people feared I would push it on them.   I was shocked by the responses I received.  I recognize now that I was not confident in my decision and wanted to feel confident it was the correct choice.  I was looking for evidence from family and friends as well as from other sources outside of me when all I needed really was to believe in myself.  Being vegan is important to my journey to Rio which you will se unfold through the process.

To my surprise that weekend I receive a ton of support from everyone around me being vegan, which again confirmed I was in the right place.  These were my people, they respected the decisions I made for me and I respected the decision they made for them.  What I have loved about US-Brazil Connect is the values they stand for: building creative partnerships on all levels of the organization and supporting each other in creating the best program through its individuals as well as creating an environment of appreciation.  At this time in my life I was truly realizing the power of appreciation and how your experience of life changes through gratitude. 

For some time I have been on a journey to find a sense of community, a place where I can thrive being who I am and a space where I can still stumble and fall on my way to being the best person I can be.  US-Brazil Connect has provided me this place and these opportunities, which I am truly grateful for.