Leaving Cambodia

NISC Graduation 2007

As you know our "18 month Cambodia Phase Out Program" under went a fast forward in May when we decided we were going to leave Cambodia a year sooner that originally planned. Although we felt strongly that this was the right move for us it did not make our lives, jobs, students and friends in Cambodia any easier to leave behind. We felt a little like we were being torn out of the life we had there. This posting is in part to celebrate those four great years.

Marc and I both feel that we "grew up" professionally while in Cambodia, thanks to the excellent mentors we had (Brian Ritchie, David Eaton and Mike Kent).

05/06 NISC Admin Team (David Eaton Center)

Brian With Melanie and Somany

Mike Kent UN Day at NISC 2006

We also grew close to many people and as a result grew personally and learned about ourselves in the light of good friends who love and forgive. We have definately not left them behind in our hearts.

Stuart & Sheree Kent

Our Original Bible Study Group (after Harrison's have left)

Saravuth, Melanie's Colleague from SOS

Sharry girls - of course we miss Mick too

Here are some photos of farwell events that occured in the closing days of our time there.

NISC Friends Farwell Dinner Roberts Farwell

SOS Nurse's Farwell Dinner for Melanie (Cambodian BBQ)

Leaving Cambodia was hard. This is the life we have chosen and there a big part of both of us that loves the moving, the cycle of change, the challenge of starting again, the new adventuresand the making yourself over (well that part is Mel; Marc is his same solid self everywhere). However, those who know about global nomads and cycles of adaptation say that what you did and how you finish in one place directly affects you in your next place. In other words, you cannot outrun yourself! We know that we will cherish the experiences and memories that we were fortunate enough to have in Cambodia.

Farewell Lunch with Roberts and Chase Family