Mamangy

Mamangy: A Symbole of Support from my Community

Written on 2/16/2015

I've been back at site for about a week. I'm definitely still working on getting back into the swing of things. I didn't teach last week but spent the week at my sitemates house while I stopped by my house and cleaned it a little bit at a time - because I left in such a rush it was quite dirty. (Mostly just taken over by spider webs and cockroaches).

Being back I can honestly say I am so thankful for the support from my friends back at home, my fellow Peace Corps Volunteers, and my community.

The director of my school arranged a mamangy (visitation of sorts) for me. When someone passes, a mamangy is held and people come together as a sign of support for the person and the family. There is one representative from the group who gives a small speech, and the person responds. (or in my case the survaillant who did the traditional response for me).

I went to the mamangy feeling surrounded by my sitemate, Charlotte, my counterpart, Vola, and the librarians and secretary of the community center in my town. We entered a small room and they stood in my side as my family. The teachers entered and the representative spoke (rather quietly) that they are there to support me and the surviallant responded the traditional thank you on my behalf.

My sitemate, Charlotte, responded also responded a bit for me. She explained that our experience is not easy, especially when things happen at home and we are so far away. She said its so important to have a family here and to have people around for support and thanked them for coming to show that they are there for me.

I was also given a small envelope of money that is traditionally used for soap and washing materials to refresh yourself and help you feel rejuvenated and back on your feet.

It really meant something to me to feel not only supported by, but also feel like a part of my community. They arranged a traditional cultural event for me, and I felt important and missed by my community, which was a welcoming feeling as I was wondering if I was really needed here like I feel like I was needed at home.

As I get back to teaching, I can honestly say I don't feel 100% myself yet. I am okay, and certainly am pleased with my decision to return to my community, but sometimes it is all so overwhelming. Its hard not having my biggest cheeleader at home to support me. I feel like I got knocked off my feet and left laying on my back with the wind knocked out of me – left feeling a little lost in the shuffle and not sure what to do next.

I know taking it one step, one day at a time is my best bet. I have to keep moving forward and I know, although the days ahead will be tough, eventually my head will be clear, my breath will leave me feeling strong, and I'll feel back on my feet again.

As I get back into my routine, I can feel myself readjusting. I am confident that eventually I'll be able to get back to feeling like a strong part of my community and will feel ready to start making bigger steps towards small changes – but for now just being back is enough!