I haven't cut my hair since I've been
here. I plan to grow it out. It's also been a while since I've
shaved. I'm trying to uphold the time honored Peace Corps tradition
of looking slightly homeless during service. But it's hot here. And
it's not even the hot season.
The people here are kind of into the
beard look because most guys here can't grow much facial hair. It's
funny because in the US I actually gro a comparatively small amount
of facial and body hair but here I'm Sasquatch. I guess I'm also
Sasquatch because I'm about a foot taller than everyone. I think
mostly though people see the growing hair and patchy beard and chalk
it up to a strange American.
In a way, by not cutting my hair, I am
respecting traditions here. The people of my region are the Tsimihety
people. “Tsimihety” literally means “no haircut”. It comes
from way back when when they were under the control of another
stronger tribe and refused to cut their hair in protest. Let's
see...non-violent protests and long hair...they're hippies! I knew
there was a reason I adapted so quickly. I feel at home.
I actually do feel very much at home
here. I of course miss everyone back home and Chipotle but I love it
here. I'm so happy this is where I got placed. Both in Madagascar and
in Ankazambo. I got set up really well. I'm a very lucky person. But
I'm gonna crush some Chipotle when I get back. Let them know to look
out for me in 2016. I'm coming!
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