New Volunteer!

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Cześć and halløj!


I’m Nora, the new volunteer at the library of Pomiechówek. “New” should be emphasized here, considering I’ve only been in town for a week and a half. And yet, I’ve already fallen in love with this place that I’m to call home for the next year. While Copenhagen truly is wonderful, there is a unique charm to Pomiechówek that can’t be found where I come from.


I first stumbled upon it after my 18-hour bus ride (or rather, 17 hours and 50 minutes. But you’ll have to forgive my sleep-addled mind for not keeping better track). Here I was, brand new to Warsaw, and a volunteer from Stowarzyszenie Promocji Wolontariatu (SPW) was ready to help me with getting on the right train, actually buying the ticket and not just select it in the app, and—bravest of all—carrying my oversized luggage. 


This kindness was not just a nice beginning, but seemingly the most positive of omens for what life in Poland has been like so far. My mentors have taught me about the village and how everything works here, and they’re always ready to answer questions. My landlady and her three dogs gave a warm welcome, with homemade pierogi and rhubarb drinks. The librarians I now work with have been unendingly kind in their introduction to all the new areas I’m to work with. And the people at Chit Chat—the local English-speaking club turned gossip group—have regaled the lore of Pomiechówek and been the cause of long late-night chats. All in all, everyone I have met has been warm, patient, and welcoming beyond measure.


Add to that the joy of being within walking distance of a splendid forest, having surprisingly good access to public transportation, and living in a house and in a village where I could hardly be more comfortable, I couldn’t ask for more in my current stay in Pomiechówek. In my brief time here, I’ve only become more curious and interested in what Poland has to offer, and I look forward to a year full of new experiences. Including, of course, coming up with fun topics to write about here!


Until next time, with hopeful and heartfelt greetings,

Nora



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