I've been here before

Yes indeed, sometimes it takes a collection of experiences for better or worse to understand what it is we truly want to do with our work.  I've found out for me that it has been a deductive process, and although I like it here in DC, I have come to realize that I want to help people who need help rather than helping those that don't.

For a career, I would like to use my experiences in languages, travel, and cultural/religious sensitivity in an ideal world.  But ultimately I feel that it is important for me to want to feel good at the end of the day of work, knowing my labours and activities have made a positive difference in at least one person's life.  Furthermore, I believe that helping others is motivational, working in this niche has always inspired me and given me encouragement and passion when getting up in the morning. 

But my social life outside of work right now is disappointing.  I partake in the teamwork and the niceties of my colleagues at work, but I know that they don't believe nor want the same things out of life that I do.  There is nothing wrong with their goals and aspirations, but I wonder how I can live and work in a social community in which I struggle to find common ground.  What is important and meaningful for an individual has the potential to move mountains, and ideally if I can work with others who share the same passions, that fervour can aid me in feeling as though I am working for something bigger than myself.

I'm positive now that I want to be back home, around my family and friends, but I have no regrets.  I've currently been looking at Catholic Charities in both Dallas and Ft. Worth, talking with both offices about volunteer opportunities to get a foot in the door, but this doesn't pay the bills.  I'm willing to get a hold of something temporarily to make ends meet and pay my student loans while I spend my spare-time wisely in working towards my career goals.  I would say the same situation is plausible here in DC, but I'd rather be around people who love me back home in the meantime.