First Lady's Visit Lifts the Spirits of Peace Corps Volunteers in Botswana

Meeting new people is part of the fun of being a Peace Corps Volunteer in Botswana. When I first arrived I lived in a village for 2 months to start learning the language and culture; I stayed with a host family and met someone new almost every day. Then I moved to the village I have lived in for the past year, and part of the integration process was to meet as many people as I could. I kind of got used to the normal conversations and daily routines. I can honestly say I never thought one of the people I would meet here would be the First Lady of the United States, but that changed on Saturday when Mrs. Obama took the time to thank US Mission staff and Peace Corps Volunteers in Gaborone.

The First Lady was hosted and introduced by US Ambassador Gavin in the backyard of her home. Mrs. Obama's gentle grace balanced by her purposeful presence immediately captured everyone's attention. She started by thanking everyone for braving the cold winter day, which no one seemed to notice the second she came on stage. She thanked US Mission staff for what she called the true work of diplomacy and for the sacrifices they make, especially in leaving families back home. Then she gave a special shout out to recognize the Peace Corps, which was met with loud applause and cheers from the Volunteers. She mentioned how many people don't understand how much work is done overseas by Americans with the US Government.

Mrs. Obama stressed that the relationship between Botswana and the United States is an important one that she was recognizing with her visit. When talking about Botswana, she said, "This is the reflection of the model of a mature, vibrant African democracy." She talked about being happy with the progress that has been made and said she is looking forward to more advancements. She ended her remarks by saying the US Mission workers and Peace Corps Volunteers have made the visit a special one.

Mrs. Obama then went into the audience to shake hands and personally thank people for their service. Peace Corps Volunteer Omosalewa Oyelaran said, "It was an honor to be in the humble presence of such a dedicated public servant and to be in the community that welcomed her just as we as volunteers have been welcomed to Botswana." Numerous volunteers' eyes filled with tears as Mrs. Obama reached out her hand to thank them. The experience brought out many emotions as people felt connected to the administration at home and the purpose that brought them to Botswana. Americans in public service working overseas deal with many challenges and this rare chance of meeting the First Lady lifted the spirits of everyone she touched.

 

 

 

Comments

[yougogirl1948]

03:52 PM on 06/30/2011

Thank you, Mr. Szabo, for your service and a beautiful story. God bless you and all of your fellow Peace Corps workers.

[HawaiiShira]

03:12 AM on 06/28/2011

These are the things that the media does not put enough focus on in terms of Mrs. Obama's agenda, and the positive impact it had on US citizens working in Africa on behalf of the US government. Thank you for sharing & making us aware, and thanks for the dedication and service to people who are less fortunate and in faraway countries all over the world.

[Carol Wilson Spigner]

03:17 PM on 06/27/2011

Thanks so much for sharing this event. The workk of the voluteers is certanily worhty of Mrs. Obama's recognition. Please continur to inform us of your work and how it is impacting your life!
Best, CWS

[onohuff2011]

12:28 PM on 06/27/2011

Ross and Salewa, I'm delighted to hear that the Peace Corps volunteers were inspired by The First Lady's. I was hoping you all would meet her when it was first announced she would be traveling to Botswana. Thank you for your service and I hope to meet Michelle Obama myself sooner than later.

[Dangerous Dan]

01:02 AM on 06/27/2011

Michelle and her husband have always inspired me to health eating!
So, why, Why?

http://www.reuters.com/video/2011/06/25/french-fries-and-fat-cakes-for-us-first?videoId=216470977&videoChannel=1

[jgcarroll]

09:03 PM on 06/26/2011

My wife and I met when we were PCVs in Botswana in the early 90s. We stayed in Botswana a few more years and couldn't get away from work when the Clintons visited. I'm glad the US government still pays attention to the place - it is a real gem.

Maun is a sweet posting, by the way.

[alto2]

05:06 PM on 06/26/2011

Thank you, sir, for your own service and for taking time to highlight the work of your organization -- and the recognition it received from the First Lady. Every blessing to you.

[Mr Universe]

04:28 PM on 06/26/2011

I hope for a day when the First Lady can visit Somalia, Ethiopia and all of Africa and say the same things. Africa must be free.