You inspire me.

In spite of all the dreams I have, I sometimes lose focus.

A question I've asked myself several times during the last month is “where do I begin?”

It's not that I'm absolutely oblivious or that I haven't scanned the system in the past. It's simply that there's an added pressure to what already seems like a tedious process: after three years abroad I've returned to a rural, low-paced, isolated city in my country that is brand new to me. Chiloé.

I hardly know the city. I hardly know the people. I'm only now becoming aware of what major national institutions have offices here and which ones don't. I haven't scanned the specific way of reaching out and working with people that is used here. I barely know where I'm standing on the map. Seriously.

So, I feel lost. And although my dream of empowering women is stronger than ever, I honestly don't know where to start. Yes, I'm applying for a job, in the hopes it will be in the National Service for Women, and will pay well. Yes, I'm trying to figure out the city, and understand if an initiative in women's empowerment would capture interest and bring quorum to a workshop. I'm looking at national grants, that I may apply to so my ideas can take flight. But, I feel like I'm missing an even easier way to make my voice heard and for interaction with other women in my community begin.

What is it?

It is at times like this that I am absolutely aware of the benefits of an online community. In a town like this, where numbness appears more obvious than leadership, it's not as simple as observing local leaders and becoming inspired, or joining the local LGBT group, which doesn't exist. It's about becoming the local leader and inspiring others to do the same. So, where does an absolutely brand-new grassroots leader in my conditions get her inspiration from? From an online community dedicated to sharing inspiring stories, ideas, answers, methodology, and things I'm still not able to grasp in my beginner's mind.

With World Pulse I can not only ask my fellow sisters the question I state above, but I can search for similar doubts, answers and help that has been lent before, and find mentor's, teachers, and partners in my endeavors.

I just arrived to Chiloé 9 days ago and do not even have my own home at this time. My entire life appears to be on hold. But my vision goes beyond this temporary uncertainty. I am an agent of change. I have a responsibility, not only with my immediate neighbors but with the world, to be all I am at every moment, in every encounter. World Pulse reminds me this so swiftly, so strongly. Isn't it amazing that it can do the same for whomever allows it to do so?