Many experienced volunteers tell me that it is normal to experience a dip at around the six month stage. This is the point at which you need to dig deep to maintain perspective and to manage your morale effectively.

It is easy for a blog to showcase the highlights and I want to record the struggles too for when I look back on my time here.

I have been here since July and perhaps, for a couple of days, I am feeling a little of that 'six month dip'.

I have a reputation here for being happy and positive and overrall I am relentlessly optimistic. But there are times when it feels tough out here -physically, mentally and emotionally. This morning, after my wash with a bucket of cold water, I walk past rubbish tips, stray dogs and open sewers and head for an overcrowded bus. I don't quite feel 100% and have a bit of a cough too.

I arrive at work dripping with sweat. The heat, noise, smell and dust are oppressive and the grinding poverty of the poorest people hits you full in the face. The inequality and injustice of wealth and power seems overwhelming.

Am I making an impact or making any difference through my work here? It's difficult to see sometimes. Trying to be creative and effective here in Buddhist Asian Myanmar and working within western managerialist frameworks is frustrating, but I know I am appreciated by local people and thats what counts.

I need to acknowledge these feelings and doubts - they are real enough.

I know that VSO is on the side of the poorest communities and I wish my work could be closer to the grassroots. Maybe I can get a trip to 'the field' before I go.

I will look forward to another 'visa run' to Bangkok in a couple of weeks time to refresh things.

Tonight when I return home to my community in the north of the city, I will be greeted by young children with smiles and 'high fives' and instantly the world just seems a better place once more........