Chiara's experience in Latvia

I had the pleasure of experiencing one of Latvia’s most significant and traditional celebrations, Līgo/Jāņi (the solstice), surrounded by Latvians, and it was truly moving. The festival is so deeply cherished that it almost feels like a Christmas out of season. We celebrated it first in a family setting, hosted by some friends of Maija (my coordinator), and then went on a road trip together to explore Vidzeme (a region in northeastern Latvia). We performed pagan rituals by the bonfire, enjoyed a barbecue, drank plenty of beer, and I made a flower crown with my own hands for the first time! I was extremely proud of it. Maija will keep it to burn it in next year’s bonfire, as tradition dictates.

My coordinator was almost like a host mother to me—we didn’t live under the same roof, but we shared so many experiences together that we became very close. Ineta, who is my age, was like a sister to me. Saying goodbye to the organization was quite heart-wrenching, both because I’m easily moved and because they constantly surprised me: the volunteers I had done camps with came to the office to give me a photo album and a little survival kit in case I got homesick for Latvia; Maija and Ineta (with whom I shared the office for a year) gave me a CD with a dedication from the Latvian band whose concert I had attended and whose songs I had learned; even my previous coordinator, Silva, said goodbye with a herbal tea “scented with Latvia.” Finally, we had a real farewell party with all my colleagues, and they gave me a pin that is part of traditional Latvian costumes. Honestly, I wonder when I’ll ever find another office like this.