Reflection

No words can adequately explain the friendships, emotional and educational growth, and the impact of our inaugural Fulbright Alumni Service Corps Trip, so aptly named, "A Window to Albania."

Here are some thoughts from looking out that window:

Fulbright:

• Fulbright had already made a powerful impact on Albania:  the Minister of Agriculture learned about the downfalls of  farming subsidies while in the US and instead is working for cooperative farming; the Dean of University of Tirana stated that Fulbright has enriched the institution.
• Fulbright is a highly respected organization overseas:  the Mayor of Tirana and the Ambassador, neither Fulbright Alumni, invited us to meet with them. 
• Fulbright Alumni are in professions that have influence in Albania, and those alumni are continuing the spirit of the organization.
• Fulbright Alumni of all ages are enjoyable travel companions:  interesting, curious, knowledgeable, and adaptable to new surroundings and situations.
• The Task Force of Fulbright Board Members that organizes Insight and Service Trips do a phenomenal job. While in Albania, I kept thinking, "It can't get any better,"  but the trip did get better every day!

Cultural Heritage without Borders:

• First class organization deserving of its awards;
• Dedicated, organized, diligent, knowledgeable, progressive, welcoming  and appreciative staff and volunteers who are fluent in English;
• Hires experts in their fields for training for Restoration Camps;
• Understands and appreciates diversity;
• Employs talented and easy-to-work-with craftsmen.

Albania and Albanians

• Albania is a beautiful country with its riviera and mountains.
• Albanian food is delicious, fresh, and organic.
• 70% of the sage America imports is from Albania.
• Albania has endured many invasions, bombings during WWII, little independence, a brutal Communist government for forty years.
• Albanians are resilient, resourceful, open-minded, hopeful, appreciative, humble, friendly, and very hospitable.
• Albania is developing at a fast rate.

The trip was valuable for all of us.  The staff of CHwB were impressed by our energy, curiosity, and down-to-earth friendliness.  They loved seeing us enjoy their Restoration Camp, site seeing, and restoration work.  We loved our service work, tours, meals, and time with each other.  Indeed, Senator William Fulbright's goal-- to create mutual understanding among all people of the world --was fulfilled 100% on the inaugural, "Window to Albania."


The followup of this trip is two fold:  one, maintaining friendships among fellow travelers and Albanians; two, planning more service trips with CHwB.

You may contact Mary Stanton at rstanton5@comcast.net.