Friday, July 27, 2012

Update

So its been a while and I must admit I am not much of a blogger... obviously. But I did want to give everyone a quick update and let you know that I am doing fine.  I have been exceptionally busy these past few months.  I have started working on a small IGA (Income Generating Activity) at my school to help support some of the children with school fees.  We are making bracelets and jewelry which will be sold at local hotels and in front of the school.  I have also been creating a pamphlet to educate "voluntourists" who come to the school wanting to "help" the "poor African child".  Even though most of the tourists' intentions are good they have no idea how their presence is viewed by the children and the withstanding effects of their visits.  Many times they portray the image of the "rich white man". They throw toys and candy at the children without understanding the repercussions of their actions. Their actions reinforce a lifestyle of depending on others for survival; this behavior makes the Kenyan believe that it is ok to never have to work for something because the "white man" will always be there to help them.  I am desperately trying to stop that mindset or at least show other options. 

Things at my school have been challenging.  The teachers still don't understand that I am there as an educator and not a donor.  Everyday I struggle with them asking me to give, steal, or "promote" them.  Whether I am dealing with the caning of children or arguing that I am capable of independent thought- even though I'm a woman, I have little to no time alone.  Most of my friends have been moved from the coast do the recent bombings from Al Shabaab and I am pretty lonely.  Its ok though, I have a break in a few weeks and I will be spending most of my time completing a mural of a world map on one of the school walls and diving.  I think that dive season will be my savior for the next term!  I miss home more and more everyday, but when I am teaching all of my worries go away and I know that I am truly happy to be in Kenya doing what I'm doing.  Its crazy to believe that I only have 16 more months left.... ok attached are pictures of me, my kids, the Gede Ruins, and my beading project.  Ill try to send out a video of my signing soon.

Love you all and miss you more than words can describe!!!!