About the FOX

1961: John F. Kennedy created an innovative program called the Peace Corps. Mine was a
family of educators and the conversation around the dinner table resembled a Fourth of July
celebration.

I was a sophomore in high school. Late at night I thought about this “never before
tried” new program that sent US volunteers all over the world to help others and expand each other’s knowledge of different cultures. In short, to bring peace through understanding.

A few weeks passed. Mrs. Doss, my English teacher announced our essay assignment:  What are Your Plans After Graduation?

I knew exactly what I wanted to do…I wanted to join the Peace Corps. I spent the weekend writing about the Corps, where I wanted to go, and what I imaged I would experience in that country.

Life has a way of happening. I went to college after high school graduation, fell in love, married, had a daughter and began fulfilling all the responsibilities of married life. My plan of joining the Peace Corps had to be postponed, and postponed, and postponed.

Suddenly, 78 years passed, but the hope of joining the Peace Corps was still my dream. I was at a juncture in my life. Children were grown, care-taking ceased ith spousal and parental deaths. It was now or never if I wanted to realize my dream.

I applied. With the help of professionals in medicine, dental and ophthalmology, I completed the forms and exams. I was accepted. My destination was Moldova in eastern Europe. I would leave June 1, 2025 for the experience of a lifetime. Mrs. Doss, I’m a little late, but I’m finally going to fulfill that promise I made 62 years ago.