Another end

Well, it's been a while since I last wrote. Someone asked me towards the end of my stay what I had learnt during my time at the Park. A good question, and it really got me thinking... This is more for my benefit, so I won't be offended if you don't wade through this post...

The Practical:
-How to build a washroom for a hilltribe village.
-How to thatch a grass roof.
-How to dig a well.
-How to climb out of a well without a rope or ladder.
-How to deal with the laughter when you don't quite make it out of the well (or when you fall back in).
-How to bottle feed a cow, raise a cow, and chase a cow if it gets loose.
-How to train a 1 year old elephant.
-How to raise or look after orphaned/injured birds/cows/cats/owls/mice. Final count: 6 kittens (2 of which didn't survive), 2 cows, 1 bird, 1 owl, 1 mouse.
-How to avoid squealing like a girl when you find a cockroach in your bed. Or at least, how to avoid squealing so that other people can hear you. ;)
-How to pick maggots out of a dog's wound & not be too squeamish while doing it.

The Stuff I Learnt About Myself:
-I have a hard time dealing with the stereotypical tourist (and there are a lot out there!). I'm sure everyone's met them - they're the person who needs to brag about the places they've been, the things they've seen, and the stamps they have in their passport (the latter being the most important). Nevermind the fact they haven't made an effort to learn to say "thanks" in the local language...
-I'm not a bit fan of travel. I love seeing new things & experiencing new places, but I'd rather settle down & get to know a place, rather than scheduling a 4 week whirlwind tour of 4 different countries...
-I'm stronger than I thought - both mentally & physically. I loved all the physical work & being outdoors all day.
-I think working with the other volunteers has helped me feel more confident speaking in front of group & has helped me overcome (to some extent) my introvertedness.
-My 5 months at ENP have given me such a profound respect for the work that Lek (and all the other people who work for her) is doing. She has given up so much, and dedicated everything she has, to improving the plight of elephants in Thailand. If I could accomplish half of what she's done, I'd be incredibly happy. I've never met a stronger or more determined individual.