For the first time, I am really part of a team that matters.  

I've been on sports teams before, but let's be honest, I have never been great at sports.

I'm living with 9 other corps members.

Waking up to Anna's music blaring in her ears,

Julie walking back from the guys,

and the train rumbling by every hour.

Sharing the kitchen with 9 other hungry, carb-craving beings.

Riding in the 15 passenger van, listening to the only cd possible:

Michael Jackson's "This is IT...." jammed in the player.

Cooking for 10.

Cleaning after 10.

Sleeping with earplugs.

Watching everyone else's tv.

Washing the dishes that "no one" used.

Early morning ladder runs for physical training.

Locking ourselves out of the house...

When "no one" was supposed to be carrying the key.

Always surrounded by the same people.

Feeling as if I'm the only one who truly knows the real me.

Watching snow fall on the mountains in the distance.

Opening the shades to 9 deer grazing outside the window.

Pickaxing alongside people stronger than me.

Pickaxing alongside people much smaller than me.

Spending hours doing work meant to occupy us for weeks.

Listening to the stories of farm workers and their families 

and everyone connected to the foundation.

Cooking authentic enchiladas, horchata, and rice pudding with Chef Maria.

Standing in the room where the famous Chavez fasted for over 30 days.

For the first time, I am really part of a team that matters.  

I've been on sports teams before, but let's be honest, I have never been great at sports.