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Hello everyone!
My project in Mrachenik has come to an end.
So much has changed over these past three months; I’ve met so many wonderful people whom I will carry in my heart forever. Mrachenik and Smokinya have contributed to my personal growth and helped me grow in so many ways. Today, I feel like I’ve rediscovered myself and begun to see the world differently—in a better light. I’ve realized that I’m much more than I thought I was, that I have more skills and courage; I’ve learned that there’s nothing wrong with not knowing how to do everything, nothing wrong with asking for help. I’ve discovered the beauty of life, how wonderful it is to feel it flowing through you. I’m alive—I can hear the birds chirping, feel the wind blowing through my hair, and the sun burning my skin. I’ve managed to handle my anxiety many times, to not let unpleasant things distract me, and to stay focused on the wonderful things I’m doing. I feel like my English has improved a lot; it’s an indescribable feeling to be able to communicate with so many people. As a student of Language Mediation, I couldn’t be happier. I’ve also picked up some Bulgarian—I might not be able to carry on a full conversation yet, but as a language lover, I’m sure I’ll keep studying it, especially since, sooner or later, I’ll be returning to Mrachenik. My creative and IT skills have also grown. In March, I was named Leader of the Month.
This experience has taught me to take responsibility for managing my own work and that of others, and to keep all the tasks required for the job under control. Honestly, I didn’t think I was capable of it, but the praise I received at the end of the month gave me even more confidence in myself. Obviously, none of this would have been possible if I hadn’t had people who believed in me.
The strong connection with nature was one of my favorite things; as a nature lover, vegetarian, and animal lover, I can’t help but be over the moon about having immersed myself so deeply in the green mountains of the village.
But I wasn’t the only one who changed over these three months. When I arrived in January, the days were always gray, cold, and full of snow (which I loved). In the last month, however, the sun was always out. It was wonderful to see how an entire village comes back to life after winter.
During the Festival, I had the chance to talk to many people and exchange ideas, learning about new perspectives and experiences. I wasn’t afraid to engage with others or start a conversation, and I wasn’t worried about not being able to communicate because of my English. I just wanted to talk to people, to hear their voices. My main task was to work with Leo to prepare the various meals. I had a blast; I love cooking, and having to do it for so many people was both a challenge and a great opportunity to manage anxiety and handle much larger quantities than usual. I always felt calm, and especially when people congratulated me, it was a small source of satisfaction.
The team has been like a home to me: always ready with a hug, there to help me through tough times, and to guide me. Leo and Vic, as coordinators, have always been there to support me both at work and in my personal life. Vic has been my rock these past few months; her voice has calmed me down so many times, and her experience, along with her genuine and calm nature, have made me feel safe.
A little over a month ago, Christina, my roommate, Gas, and Samuel arrived. I’ve built a relationship with them that I’m sure will go beyond our project with Smokinya. It feels like I’ve known them my whole life, we share common passions, and there’s endless laughter, for which I thank them every day. I’ll never be grateful enough for having met them. We have been (and always will be) a fantastic team.
When they told me I’d have to share a room with another girl, I wasn’t exactly thrilled. Then Christina arrived. It was love at first sight between us. After just a few days, we started saying the same things at the same time. Nowadays, a single glance is all it takes for us to understand each other. I trust her completely—I couldn’t have asked for a better roommate.
Thank you for all the times you made me laugh, for all the hours we spent playing outside after work, for all the ice cream, and for all your help.
To me, Smokinya is home. “Creating a world that works for everyone” is its motto—and mine, too. I fully share the vision of the team and Tisho, and I couldn’t help but feel like a part of this wonderful little community.
It’s been an incredible experience. From the bottom of my heart, thank you, Smokinya, for everything.
See you soon!
-Angela
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Should you have a question, contact us: info@smokinya.com.
Финансирано от Европейския съюз. Изразените възгледи и мнения обаче принадлежат изцяло на техния(ите) автор(и) и не отразяват непременно възгледите и мненията на Европейския съюз или на Европейската изпълнителна агенция за образование и култура (EACEA). За тях не носи отговорност нито Европейският съюз, нито EACEA.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.
