Friday July 30, 2010- Created by Tanya
Our last day in the community was full of goodbyes and wishes for a longer stay. Since the MDumbi school was closed for a fundraiser, Ismay and Richard joined Michelle, Valerie, Anya, Susan, Kate, Deborah, and Tanya at Mbange. Tanya interviewed the principal Mr. Sihalhi while the others taught final lessons to the much beloved students. The appreciation for having Global Volunteers at the school was quite evident with thank you cards written by the students. Requests from them as to when we will return and a surprise thank you party from the teacher’s where they pulled us out of the classroom, so that we could enjoy some treats and juice.
At the community centre, Holly sang and danced her way through her last day with the preschool. Cam and Andrew joined the gang in continuing to paint the ceiling of the community centre. This time they used paint brushes on long poles instead of the air compressor.
Next preparations were underway for the final celebrations as sandwiches were made, popcorn was popped, and guests arrived. We all showed our appreciation for these last two weeks with heart felt thank yous, singing, a fashion show, and a short play performed in Xhosa and English
Afterwards, sandwiches, cookies and popcorns were passed around and the hunger in the community was evident. At dinner, the guesthouse staff joined us and we were all able to serve them for once while they had a chance to eat a leisurly dinner.
Now it is off to pack and prepare to leave our beloved Malungeni.
Friday, July 30, 2010
Thursday, July 29, 2010
All good things come to an end...
Friday July 29, 2010- Created by Richard
We started the day our with yet another amazing breakfast prepared by the excellent and hardworking staff. We received our marketing orders from our versatile, flexible, and dynamic group leader Tanya. The weather was a little chilly and threatening rain but this did not dampen our spirits. Excitement and anticipation filled the room as the volunteers realized that our goal was within our grasp. All that was left to do was the final two days of projects and preparation for the farewell celebration.
Richard and Ismay headed to MDumbi. Cam and Drew started out to finish the tree planting project. Michelle, Deborah, Kate, Valerie, and Anya headed to MBange. Holly was sent to the preschool. Susan was still a little under the weather. We all met back at the guest house at 1 pm. We started on our journey to Mthatha to visit the Nelson Mandela Museum. Our reliable driver was Zile. After arrival to the museum we were given a guided tour. During the tour we were refamiliarized with the greatness, courage, and stature of the man who was instrumental in leading South Africa through Apartheid and on to the world stage. It was evident that his sacrifice and selflessness as an example to millions around the world.
After the museum in Mthatha we visited Qunu, the village where Mr. Mandela grew up. The museum at Qunu was also a guided tour but some in the group chose to explore on their own. Richard, Ismay, Andrew, Cam, Tanya, and Kate went with the tour guide to the sliding rock where a young Nelson Mandela playfully slid down a rock with his friends to kill time and escape the boredom while tending his family’s cattle. The guide graciously demonstrated. A fearless Andrew soon followed. Not to be outdone group leader Tanya gave it a try. Once was just not enough for Andrew, Eh! Once again, Andrew slid down the rock. Following in his brother’s footsteps, Cam gave it a try. Finally, I gave it a try. I must admit it was exhilarating. One might even say, it was electric. We left the rock and turned the rest of the museum. Ismay and Katie made excellent cheerleader. After Qunu, we headed back, stopping at a tradition crafts place and the grocery in Mthata.
On our way home after a fun filled day, we practiced South African’s National Anthem and the group sand. Some had forgotten the words. Although it was crude and coarse sounding, we have a better idea of how to pronounce most the lyrics. We arrived back home looking forward to a trip to the tradition healer, but unfortunately she was unavailable.
Taking it in stride, the volunteers began helping the local coordinator, Olga, prepare gift bags for the children of the community. Soon it was time for a later dinner. Again, Chops and his staff fed us well.
Thought: “A person is a person through other people” –Mandela.
We started the day our with yet another amazing breakfast prepared by the excellent and hardworking staff. We received our marketing orders from our versatile, flexible, and dynamic group leader Tanya. The weather was a little chilly and threatening rain but this did not dampen our spirits. Excitement and anticipation filled the room as the volunteers realized that our goal was within our grasp. All that was left to do was the final two days of projects and preparation for the farewell celebration.
Richard and Ismay headed to MDumbi. Cam and Drew started out to finish the tree planting project. Michelle, Deborah, Kate, Valerie, and Anya headed to MBange. Holly was sent to the preschool. Susan was still a little under the weather. We all met back at the guest house at 1 pm. We started on our journey to Mthatha to visit the Nelson Mandela Museum. Our reliable driver was Zile. After arrival to the museum we were given a guided tour. During the tour we were refamiliarized with the greatness, courage, and stature of the man who was instrumental in leading South Africa through Apartheid and on to the world stage. It was evident that his sacrifice and selflessness as an example to millions around the world.
After the museum in Mthatha we visited Qunu, the village where Mr. Mandela grew up. The museum at Qunu was also a guided tour but some in the group chose to explore on their own. Richard, Ismay, Andrew, Cam, Tanya, and Kate went with the tour guide to the sliding rock where a young Nelson Mandela playfully slid down a rock with his friends to kill time and escape the boredom while tending his family’s cattle. The guide graciously demonstrated. A fearless Andrew soon followed. Not to be outdone group leader Tanya gave it a try. Once was just not enough for Andrew, Eh! Once again, Andrew slid down the rock. Following in his brother’s footsteps, Cam gave it a try. Finally, I gave it a try. I must admit it was exhilarating. One might even say, it was electric. We left the rock and turned the rest of the museum. Ismay and Katie made excellent cheerleader. After Qunu, we headed back, stopping at a tradition crafts place and the grocery in Mthata.
On our way home after a fun filled day, we practiced South African’s National Anthem and the group sand. Some had forgotten the words. Although it was crude and coarse sounding, we have a better idea of how to pronounce most the lyrics. We arrived back home looking forward to a trip to the tradition healer, but unfortunately she was unavailable.
Taking it in stride, the volunteers began helping the local coordinator, Olga, prepare gift bags for the children of the community. Soon it was time for a later dinner. Again, Chops and his staff fed us well.
Thought: “A person is a person through other people” –Mandela.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Visiting the elderly
Thursday, July 28th, 2010- Created by Cam
Another morning means another day and another day means more time to soak up the fascinating culture of Malungeni. I think that because of the incredible hospitality, many of us may now consider this little village a home away from home. I looked forward to today for a couple of reasons. One today was the day some of us got to go on the second outing to visit the elderly. The second reason was the days break from the rigors of the tree planting project. While enjoyable, it really does wipe you out for the rest of the day.
Breakfast saw the introduction a new food, as well as the comeback of those terrific bran muffins. I found the new addition of the coconut buns quite yummy and I hope we may see more of them before we leave. After breakfast, half the team went on to their teaching positions, while those visiting the elderly had a few hours to kill. Holly, Kate, Andrew, Anya, Olga, and I headed out to meet some of the villagers we have been living amongst. The first woman was actually Sam, the groundskeeper at the guesthouses, mother. She seemed rather shy while we all sat in her living room asking her questions through Olga. I can’t help but think I would be the same way being in her shoes. She kindly answered our questions and even changed into a snazzy outfit when we asked to take her picture.
The second area we visited was home to an older couple and their daughter. We listened to stories about how the couple met, the locust infestation that obliterated most crops all over South Africa in the 40’s, and even some of the battles that used to take place between various villages. Olga also chimed in about one even she remembered when she was 10 years old. Before we gave our utmost thanks to the family for having us, we were provided with a gift bag full or 6 or 7 eggs, only proving further how gracious Malungenities are. In our final visit, we were told more stories about how the woman met her husband, and how they had a long relationship before their marriage, something they had to be very secretive about at the time. When we asked for a picture she seemed to be in agreement with Sam’s mom, and changed clothes for her portrait. When we get home, I know we plan on sending the photos back to them.
We trekked home to the guesthouse afterwards for a fairly calm rest of the day and night. Everyone discussed their days, and it seems that at the MBonge school, there was a particularly fun time had in teaching American slang to a class, with Debra taking the lead role in some skits to help explain some of the terms. The kids came later on for what some of us probably consider our daily workout and I have to say… im gonna be a fine Frisbee thrower after this trip! As of now, I’m looking forward to finishing the tree planting tomorrow and then getting back to painting. Only a few days left… let’s make the most of them!
Thought: “When you cease to make a contribution, you begin to die”- Eleanor Roosevelt
Another morning means another day and another day means more time to soak up the fascinating culture of Malungeni. I think that because of the incredible hospitality, many of us may now consider this little village a home away from home. I looked forward to today for a couple of reasons. One today was the day some of us got to go on the second outing to visit the elderly. The second reason was the days break from the rigors of the tree planting project. While enjoyable, it really does wipe you out for the rest of the day.
Breakfast saw the introduction a new food, as well as the comeback of those terrific bran muffins. I found the new addition of the coconut buns quite yummy and I hope we may see more of them before we leave. After breakfast, half the team went on to their teaching positions, while those visiting the elderly had a few hours to kill. Holly, Kate, Andrew, Anya, Olga, and I headed out to meet some of the villagers we have been living amongst. The first woman was actually Sam, the groundskeeper at the guesthouses, mother. She seemed rather shy while we all sat in her living room asking her questions through Olga. I can’t help but think I would be the same way being in her shoes. She kindly answered our questions and even changed into a snazzy outfit when we asked to take her picture.
The second area we visited was home to an older couple and their daughter. We listened to stories about how the couple met, the locust infestation that obliterated most crops all over South Africa in the 40’s, and even some of the battles that used to take place between various villages. Olga also chimed in about one even she remembered when she was 10 years old. Before we gave our utmost thanks to the family for having us, we were provided with a gift bag full or 6 or 7 eggs, only proving further how gracious Malungenities are. In our final visit, we were told more stories about how the woman met her husband, and how they had a long relationship before their marriage, something they had to be very secretive about at the time. When we asked for a picture she seemed to be in agreement with Sam’s mom, and changed clothes for her portrait. When we get home, I know we plan on sending the photos back to them.
We trekked home to the guesthouse afterwards for a fairly calm rest of the day and night. Everyone discussed their days, and it seems that at the MBonge school, there was a particularly fun time had in teaching American slang to a class, with Debra taking the lead role in some skits to help explain some of the terms. The kids came later on for what some of us probably consider our daily workout and I have to say… im gonna be a fine Frisbee thrower after this trip! As of now, I’m looking forward to finishing the tree planting tomorrow and then getting back to painting. Only a few days left… let’s make the most of them!
Thought: “When you cease to make a contribution, you begin to die”- Eleanor Roosevelt
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
“Egg-ucation” or “Which came first: the chicken or the egg”
Tuesday July 27, 2010-Created by Michelle
Breakfast was quieter than usual. This lively bunch was subdued. The sounds of spoons scraping bowls of oatmeal and cereal were the dominating noise of the dining room. Many have grown mildly weary from either illness or more likely seeing the hardships of these people, or from having been in classrooms without a teacher to help. But despite our weariness we are all hoping that we are making a difference, and are eager to work on our commitments in Malungeni.
Valerie, Deborah, and I went to MBange and worked in the 8th grade. We divided the class into groups of three making for more intimate discussion time. We enjoyed hearing about their dreams and what they hope to become as adults. Olga was very helpful in bridging the gap with the principal and the team, letting him know the difficulties we’ve had being the only teachers in the classrooms. I was once again invited to play in a game of netball with the kids at break- something I certainly enjoyed.
Cam and Andrew have almost completed the making of tree enclosures. They have worked very hard to achieve this huge task. Ismay reported a two thumbs up day of teaching at the school. Richard offered a more lively report and tells me first hand that this story really is true. He ends up teaching English in the 9th grade as the principal was not there. In the middle of his English lesson, a chicken walked into his classroom. Richard claims that he kept his cool, letting the chicken do its thing. It hopped onto the desk, then up to the cabinet, then jumped on the floor in front of the class were she proceeds to make a mess and strut her stuff. She then jumps back up and lands on his bag which was on the desk. A girl in the class decides that this is too much, rescues Richard and his bag by shooing the chicken out of the classroom window. So why did the chicken walk through the door?To get back into the classroom of course! She jumps on the desk and looks at the board. Richard, trying to be humorous and be good sport, pretends he is teaching the chicken English. Except! She turns her backside to him as if to say No Thanks.
Now, this all happened before lunch. After lunch, Richard moves to the 8th grade class to teach English... And guess who made another appearance? The chicken, herself! Richard is pretty certain it was the same chicken based on its features he recognized. It hoped onto the cabinet where she sat and wanted him to teach the rest of his lesson. Toward the end of class there was some commotion at the cabinet- a girl was trying to get rid of the chicken. Lo and behold! The chicken had laid an egg on top of the cabinet. A girl scooped up the egg and mentioned that this would become a meal.
Zangezila was once again hired to take parts of the team on an outing. This time to the orphanage Mzomtsha. Those that went were impressed with the accommodations and that the kids were well provided for. The team was well received by the children and wanted them to come back and play.
Valerie and I played with some kids who came to the guest house in the afternoon- not for very long though, because the smoke from a nearby field fire was overwhelming. It was good to get out and throw the ball and watch kids jump rope. It was a lovely day.
Thought of the day:
We must imagine what would happen is the situation were reversed. What would it be like if we needed assistance in our countries, in our communities or neighborhoods? What would we do Where would we turn for help?
There are two old proverbs or sayings that come to mind: “You never know a man until you have walked a mile in his shoes”. Even though we are a week and a half into our volunteer experience We are only in the process of taking single steps in the people of Malungeni’s shoes. When we finish that step, we will be happy to rejoice in the second saying: “A Journey of a thousand miles begins with but a single step”. Let us complete our step with vigor, positive energy, and positive thought.
Breakfast was quieter than usual. This lively bunch was subdued. The sounds of spoons scraping bowls of oatmeal and cereal were the dominating noise of the dining room. Many have grown mildly weary from either illness or more likely seeing the hardships of these people, or from having been in classrooms without a teacher to help. But despite our weariness we are all hoping that we are making a difference, and are eager to work on our commitments in Malungeni.
Valerie, Deborah, and I went to MBange and worked in the 8th grade. We divided the class into groups of three making for more intimate discussion time. We enjoyed hearing about their dreams and what they hope to become as adults. Olga was very helpful in bridging the gap with the principal and the team, letting him know the difficulties we’ve had being the only teachers in the classrooms. I was once again invited to play in a game of netball with the kids at break- something I certainly enjoyed.
Cam and Andrew have almost completed the making of tree enclosures. They have worked very hard to achieve this huge task. Ismay reported a two thumbs up day of teaching at the school. Richard offered a more lively report and tells me first hand that this story really is true. He ends up teaching English in the 9th grade as the principal was not there. In the middle of his English lesson, a chicken walked into his classroom. Richard claims that he kept his cool, letting the chicken do its thing. It hopped onto the desk, then up to the cabinet, then jumped on the floor in front of the class were she proceeds to make a mess and strut her stuff. She then jumps back up and lands on his bag which was on the desk. A girl in the class decides that this is too much, rescues Richard and his bag by shooing the chicken out of the classroom window. So why did the chicken walk through the door?To get back into the classroom of course! She jumps on the desk and looks at the board. Richard, trying to be humorous and be good sport, pretends he is teaching the chicken English. Except! She turns her backside to him as if to say No Thanks.
Now, this all happened before lunch. After lunch, Richard moves to the 8th grade class to teach English... And guess who made another appearance? The chicken, herself! Richard is pretty certain it was the same chicken based on its features he recognized. It hoped onto the cabinet where she sat and wanted him to teach the rest of his lesson. Toward the end of class there was some commotion at the cabinet- a girl was trying to get rid of the chicken. Lo and behold! The chicken had laid an egg on top of the cabinet. A girl scooped up the egg and mentioned that this would become a meal.
Zangezila was once again hired to take parts of the team on an outing. This time to the orphanage Mzomtsha. Those that went were impressed with the accommodations and that the kids were well provided for. The team was well received by the children and wanted them to come back and play.
Valerie and I played with some kids who came to the guest house in the afternoon- not for very long though, because the smoke from a nearby field fire was overwhelming. It was good to get out and throw the ball and watch kids jump rope. It was a lovely day.
Thought of the day:
We must imagine what would happen is the situation were reversed. What would it be like if we needed assistance in our countries, in our communities or neighborhoods? What would we do Where would we turn for help?
There are two old proverbs or sayings that come to mind: “You never know a man until you have walked a mile in his shoes”. Even though we are a week and a half into our volunteer experience We are only in the process of taking single steps in the people of Malungeni’s shoes. When we finish that step, we will be happy to rejoice in the second saying: “A Journey of a thousand miles begins with but a single step”. Let us complete our step with vigor, positive energy, and positive thought.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Exploring South Africa
Monday July 26, 2010- Created by Andrew
After a stellar weekend of R & R at Coffee Bay, we returned to our volunteer routine in Malungeni. Kate and Anya are both feeling a little better and we know they will be back to their old selves in no time. Work today was productive, as far as tree planting was concerned. My brother Cam and I assisted with erecting two more tree enclosings. We have one more to go.
Sicho, Constance, and another community member assisted us, but I would like to make note of the continued determination of Montelezella and Mozalanda. Both have demonstrated beyond a doubt their ability and continued determination to work hard despite living with physical challenges and developmental delays. They are both charming young men and a credit to the community!
While working today, we were further entertained by a nearby farmer who would materialize to yell at and chase away grazing sheep off his property. The sheep kept going back and Constance explained the sheep didn’t belong to him, thus he was upset with them eating his grass.
Towards the lunch hour, I downed rubber gloves to bandage a small gash on Montezella’s ankle but the bandage seemed to keep coming off. With Richard’s kind help, we managed to make it hold with the use of gauze back at the guesthouse.
In the early afternoon, as many of the other volunteers were in Mthata for adventures in school supply shopping, Richard challenged Cameron to a gentleman’s game of chess. I couldn’t sit in as I was covered by a sticky tar like substance from the planting and has to take a cold bath. I just hope I didn’t unfairly turn the game in someone’s favor with my Richard Simmons like screaming once I entered the tub.
Several interesting activities have been planned for this week in addition to our volunteer jobs. Many thanks to Tanya to and anyone else I might have missed. I remain optimistic!
After a stellar weekend of R & R at Coffee Bay, we returned to our volunteer routine in Malungeni. Kate and Anya are both feeling a little better and we know they will be back to their old selves in no time. Work today was productive, as far as tree planting was concerned. My brother Cam and I assisted with erecting two more tree enclosings. We have one more to go.
Sicho, Constance, and another community member assisted us, but I would like to make note of the continued determination of Montelezella and Mozalanda. Both have demonstrated beyond a doubt their ability and continued determination to work hard despite living with physical challenges and developmental delays. They are both charming young men and a credit to the community!
While working today, we were further entertained by a nearby farmer who would materialize to yell at and chase away grazing sheep off his property. The sheep kept going back and Constance explained the sheep didn’t belong to him, thus he was upset with them eating his grass.
Towards the lunch hour, I downed rubber gloves to bandage a small gash on Montezella’s ankle but the bandage seemed to keep coming off. With Richard’s kind help, we managed to make it hold with the use of gauze back at the guesthouse.
In the early afternoon, as many of the other volunteers were in Mthata for adventures in school supply shopping, Richard challenged Cameron to a gentleman’s game of chess. I couldn’t sit in as I was covered by a sticky tar like substance from the planting and has to take a cold bath. I just hope I didn’t unfairly turn the game in someone’s favor with my Richard Simmons like screaming once I entered the tub.
Several interesting activities have been planned for this week in addition to our volunteer jobs. Many thanks to Tanya to and anyone else I might have missed. I remain optimistic!
After some R& R, eager to be back!
Monday July 26, 2010- Created by Ismay
Saturday, we hungrily consumed a delicious breakfast as usual prepared by chef Chops and afterwards placed our orders for some exquisite beaded jewelry from Olga. All for a good and worthy cause.
The group with bags packed excitedly boarded the van at 8:30 am for our weekend excursion to Coffee Bay. But of course, we had to stop for pictures. Richard had suggested the Malungeni welcome sign, written in Xhosa, Engnlish, and German. So, we all posed for about half an hour. Finally, we are on our journey. Along the way, we oohed and aahed and commented on the spectacular view of the South African landscape; mountains, hills, valleys, trees, no trees, colors, sand, and dirt. What a breath taking sight!
We stopped at the Masizame arts and crafts centre supported by the women in the community. At first, it seemed deserted, but as we were about to leave quite disappointedly, apparently word spread quickly through the community and one of the women mysteriously stepped out of a minibus, opened up the center and we eagerly purchased beaded jewelry and souvenirs. All for a good cause!
After about 2 hours, we arrived at the Ocean View Hotel in Coffee Bay. We immediately settled in our comfortable rooms. Some of us strolled along the beach bare food, others collected sea shells and rocks, some admired the waves, sights, and smells of the Indian Ocean. Others also did a mini tour of the area close to the hotel. Dinner was delicious and the waiters were gracious and accommodating.
Sunday, with Claus our knowledgeable and experienced driver as tour guide, we explored the area. Tanya, Richard, Ismay, Valerie, Michelle, and Deborah were in the first group. Later, Andrew, Cameron, Holly, Susan, Kate, ad Anya were in the second group. For about 2 ½ hours, Claus took us up, down, through, and around the mountains to visit the hole in the wall and raptor’s view with lots of cultural facts along the way. It was worth every rand!
We tiredly boarded the van on our return trip to Malungeni after a delightful weekend. We hope that Katie and Anya are in good health for the coming week. We promise that “what happens in Coffee Bay, stays in Coffee Bay.”
Thought (Anya)- “Youth people are capable, when aroused of bringing down the towers of oppression and raising the banners of freedom” –Nelson Mandela
Saturday, we hungrily consumed a delicious breakfast as usual prepared by chef Chops and afterwards placed our orders for some exquisite beaded jewelry from Olga. All for a good and worthy cause.
The group with bags packed excitedly boarded the van at 8:30 am for our weekend excursion to Coffee Bay. But of course, we had to stop for pictures. Richard had suggested the Malungeni welcome sign, written in Xhosa, Engnlish, and German. So, we all posed for about half an hour. Finally, we are on our journey. Along the way, we oohed and aahed and commented on the spectacular view of the South African landscape; mountains, hills, valleys, trees, no trees, colors, sand, and dirt. What a breath taking sight!
We stopped at the Masizame arts and crafts centre supported by the women in the community. At first, it seemed deserted, but as we were about to leave quite disappointedly, apparently word spread quickly through the community and one of the women mysteriously stepped out of a minibus, opened up the center and we eagerly purchased beaded jewelry and souvenirs. All for a good cause!
After about 2 hours, we arrived at the Ocean View Hotel in Coffee Bay. We immediately settled in our comfortable rooms. Some of us strolled along the beach bare food, others collected sea shells and rocks, some admired the waves, sights, and smells of the Indian Ocean. Others also did a mini tour of the area close to the hotel. Dinner was delicious and the waiters were gracious and accommodating.
Sunday, with Claus our knowledgeable and experienced driver as tour guide, we explored the area. Tanya, Richard, Ismay, Valerie, Michelle, and Deborah were in the first group. Later, Andrew, Cameron, Holly, Susan, Kate, ad Anya were in the second group. For about 2 ½ hours, Claus took us up, down, through, and around the mountains to visit the hole in the wall and raptor’s view with lots of cultural facts along the way. It was worth every rand!
We tiredly boarded the van on our return trip to Malungeni after a delightful weekend. We hope that Katie and Anya are in good health for the coming week. We promise that “what happens in Coffee Bay, stays in Coffee Bay.”
Thought (Anya)- “Youth people are capable, when aroused of bringing down the towers of oppression and raising the banners of freedom” –Nelson Mandela
Saturday, July 24, 2010
End of week one...already?
Friday July 24, 2010-Created by Deborah
Valerie read her journal for Thursday and Michelle contributed the message. After breakfast, the school volunteers were delivered to their schools. I worked with an 8th grade class. The principal visited and questioned me as to how the children greet me. “Do they call you teacher?” I had asked them to call me Deborah. “In our culture, they must call you ‘Miss Deborah’ or ‘Teacher’”. Miss Deborah it is.
My blackboard writing is awful, so I put the students to work with the chalk. They practiced making sentences using present and past tenses of the verb to be, also sentences using different prepositions. I noticed there is some confusion around prepositions.
I asked the principal for some books with short stories- he said he did not have enough for all the students, however, later he brought a collection of early reader books- renditions of old folk tales. They seemed to enjoy them. They learned some new words.
Just before noon, a student asked me to bring in my money on Monday. For lunch time, we made sandwiches in our kitchen and exchanged impressions of some of our experiences. At about 3:30, Susan and I took a walk turning right at the gate and down the hill. We passed a young woman coming towards us with a large basket of wet clothing on her head. She was accompanied by a collection of small children. Then we passed a large pen of goats and sheep- grasses for the sheep and plastic bottles for the goats.
A local woman appeared. She spoke English and offered to take us to see her hen house and pig sty. On the way we passed colorful round houses and ahead of us was a magnificent view of the golden rolling hills which ascended from a river (the one for doing laundry). Then we arrived at the homes of pigs and chicken, you should all see this for yourselves. We returned home where Michelle and Valerie were entertaining two children.
At 5: we all met in our usual spot, Tanya asked us to think about our first week in terms of colors, smells, and sounds, then off to delicious dinner.
Thought of the say: “The first thing to do is to give of yourself” –Rev Spiwo
Valerie read her journal for Thursday and Michelle contributed the message. After breakfast, the school volunteers were delivered to their schools. I worked with an 8th grade class. The principal visited and questioned me as to how the children greet me. “Do they call you teacher?” I had asked them to call me Deborah. “In our culture, they must call you ‘Miss Deborah’ or ‘Teacher’”. Miss Deborah it is.
My blackboard writing is awful, so I put the students to work with the chalk. They practiced making sentences using present and past tenses of the verb to be, also sentences using different prepositions. I noticed there is some confusion around prepositions.
I asked the principal for some books with short stories- he said he did not have enough for all the students, however, later he brought a collection of early reader books- renditions of old folk tales. They seemed to enjoy them. They learned some new words.
Just before noon, a student asked me to bring in my money on Monday. For lunch time, we made sandwiches in our kitchen and exchanged impressions of some of our experiences. At about 3:30, Susan and I took a walk turning right at the gate and down the hill. We passed a young woman coming towards us with a large basket of wet clothing on her head. She was accompanied by a collection of small children. Then we passed a large pen of goats and sheep- grasses for the sheep and plastic bottles for the goats.
A local woman appeared. She spoke English and offered to take us to see her hen house and pig sty. On the way we passed colorful round houses and ahead of us was a magnificent view of the golden rolling hills which ascended from a river (the one for doing laundry). Then we arrived at the homes of pigs and chicken, you should all see this for yourselves. We returned home where Michelle and Valerie were entertaining two children.
At 5: we all met in our usual spot, Tanya asked us to think about our first week in terms of colors, smells, and sounds, then off to delicious dinner.
Thought of the say: “The first thing to do is to give of yourself” –Rev Spiwo
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Generosity, hospitality and gratefulness.
Thursday July 22, 2010-Created by Valerie
There was no school for Richard and Ismay today due to a retirement party that started at 9:00. So Richard was off to get speckled with paint, along with Cam and Andrew. Once there, they also continued the long process of cleaning up the yard of the community centre. Holly had another day at the preschool there, very much like those before.
Ismay joined the others at MBonge where she taught a 9th grade class. She reports that her regularly assigned school, which is smaller, is more organized and disciplined. Susan reported a “great day”, believing that they accomplished a lot. She wants us to be reminded of being aware and careful with regard to contact with bodily fluids of children, aware that some could be infected with HIV/AIDS. Deborah had a better day, doing unplanned but well received activities. Kate had 42 children to herself but coped well and Anya received news that a husband had been selected for her. The fifth grade class shared by Michelle and Valerie participated enthusiastically in math and language.
This afternoon, most people went to Mthatha, eventually. Shopping was on the agenda. The last group arrived very late, just before the shops closed. Mthatha, late in the day, is very loud, busy, crowded, and dangerous to pedestrians. Michelle stayed behind and worked with a few children. Dinner was late, and as I write, it is late.
I think about many experiences here and know I can never really convey them to anyone who was not here. The young children fetching water, the dust, the generosity and hospitality of the elders, the hard life, the gratefulness of both students and elders. How dangerously close pedestrians are to vehicles, and how grateful students appear to be for so little. Please remind me when I complain.
Thought of the Day: “Umbuntu- the essence of being human. We think of ourselves far too frequently as just individuals, separated from one another, where you are connected and what you do affects the whole world. When you do well, it spreads out; it is for the whole of humanity” –Desmond Tutu.
There was no school for Richard and Ismay today due to a retirement party that started at 9:00. So Richard was off to get speckled with paint, along with Cam and Andrew. Once there, they also continued the long process of cleaning up the yard of the community centre. Holly had another day at the preschool there, very much like those before.
Ismay joined the others at MBonge where she taught a 9th grade class. She reports that her regularly assigned school, which is smaller, is more organized and disciplined. Susan reported a “great day”, believing that they accomplished a lot. She wants us to be reminded of being aware and careful with regard to contact with bodily fluids of children, aware that some could be infected with HIV/AIDS. Deborah had a better day, doing unplanned but well received activities. Kate had 42 children to herself but coped well and Anya received news that a husband had been selected for her. The fifth grade class shared by Michelle and Valerie participated enthusiastically in math and language.
This afternoon, most people went to Mthatha, eventually. Shopping was on the agenda. The last group arrived very late, just before the shops closed. Mthatha, late in the day, is very loud, busy, crowded, and dangerous to pedestrians. Michelle stayed behind and worked with a few children. Dinner was late, and as I write, it is late.
I think about many experiences here and know I can never really convey them to anyone who was not here. The young children fetching water, the dust, the generosity and hospitality of the elders, the hard life, the gratefulness of both students and elders. How dangerously close pedestrians are to vehicles, and how grateful students appear to be for so little. Please remind me when I complain.
Thought of the Day: “Umbuntu- the essence of being human. We think of ourselves far too frequently as just individuals, separated from one another, where you are connected and what you do affects the whole world. When you do well, it spreads out; it is for the whole of humanity” –Desmond Tutu.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
~Great celebrations, big and small~
Wednesday July 21, 2010- Created by Holly
Today started well with an extra hour of sleep- it was blissful. At breakfast, Michelle was surprised by a colorful birthday cake, candles of a sort, and even festive decorations. We all had a piece of cake and it was delicious.
As school was cancelled because of a teacher meeting, several volunteers trooped down the road with Andrew and Cam and went to the community centre. There they did a wonderful job of sweeping up the dust and debris and picking up glass outside. Apparently, word spread about the exciting activities at the Centre because soon groups of eager children and women joined in the cleanup. They did a wonderful job, however, once again, we were troubled by a lack of food to share with so many.
One group of volunteers visited older residents in the community and found their glimpse of life inside the round houses very interesting.
Anya cleaned up the volunteer materials and unearthed some useful materials for the classrooms. Other volunteers spent a lot of time preparing for lessons later in the week. They were interrupted by children who arrived very early and stayed for the afternoon playing Frisbee and even blowing bubbles!
Preschool was still on and the wee ones continued to enjoy dancing to CDS and learning new songs. Today, after Reverend Spiwow’s talk last night, I could feel that we were accomplishing what we came to do by participating in the life of Malungeni. I hope the feeling lasts.
Thought of the Day: (Susan)- “Is there a common language, other than music? Absolutely, there is the language of hospitality, a secular sense of honoring one another. We can meet as strangers, but we can share respect and dignity” – Yo Yo Ma.
Today started well with an extra hour of sleep- it was blissful. At breakfast, Michelle was surprised by a colorful birthday cake, candles of a sort, and even festive decorations. We all had a piece of cake and it was delicious.
As school was cancelled because of a teacher meeting, several volunteers trooped down the road with Andrew and Cam and went to the community centre. There they did a wonderful job of sweeping up the dust and debris and picking up glass outside. Apparently, word spread about the exciting activities at the Centre because soon groups of eager children and women joined in the cleanup. They did a wonderful job, however, once again, we were troubled by a lack of food to share with so many.
One group of volunteers visited older residents in the community and found their glimpse of life inside the round houses very interesting.
Anya cleaned up the volunteer materials and unearthed some useful materials for the classrooms. Other volunteers spent a lot of time preparing for lessons later in the week. They were interrupted by children who arrived very early and stayed for the afternoon playing Frisbee and even blowing bubbles!
Preschool was still on and the wee ones continued to enjoy dancing to CDS and learning new songs. Today, after Reverend Spiwow’s talk last night, I could feel that we were accomplishing what we came to do by participating in the life of Malungeni. I hope the feeling lasts.
Thought of the Day: (Susan)- “Is there a common language, other than music? Absolutely, there is the language of hospitality, a secular sense of honoring one another. We can meet as strangers, but we can share respect and dignity” – Yo Yo Ma.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
The journey continues to unfold…
Tuesday July 20, 2010 - Created by Susan
Today felt more organized and a little less anxious as we got up, had breakfast, and went to our assigned work areas- Holly to the community centre to teach her little preschool children, Susan, Anya, Deborah, Valerie, Michelle, and Kate to MBonge school, and Richard and Ismay to Upper MDumbe School. We missed Cam and Andrew at the school but they were off to assist in painting the roof of the community centre. Particular challenges noted were the difficulty in eating lunch in front of co- workers or the children as they were sent to school without anything. We also heard some painful stories. For myself, I had the first chance to teach. Little did I know that Anya and I would be left alone in the grade one class all day as the teacher decided to go home early in the day. Luckily, we had done some preparations the night before, brought some supplies, and were aided by Kate popping in a couple of times to get a new lesson off the ground. These children spoke no English but had memorized a few lines by note. It was an enriching (and tiring) experience to spend the day with them, and we felt we accomplished quite a lot.
After school, a number of children came to be “tutored” or to play, and most of the volunteers played card games and colored with the children or tutored math. Some were more physical, playing Frisbee, skipping, and soccer. Everyone seemed to have a great time and we had to usher the children out.
Before dinner, we had a valuable lesson in Xhosa, taught be Olga. She said she wasn’t going to talk to us in English anymore… Oh Dear! After dinner, we were treated to a really inspirational talk be Reverand Spiro, who shared with us his experiences growing up in Malungeni, some about his life since, and his hopes for the future. His words reinforce the importance of our presence here. Although he gave us a lot of his time, we could have listened for much longer and asked many more questions.
Tomorrow the schools are closed, so some of us will have a chance to experience some new parts of the culture while others will plan the lessons and clean the community centre. The journey continues to unfold…
Thought of the day: “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t, you’re right” –Henry Ford.
Today felt more organized and a little less anxious as we got up, had breakfast, and went to our assigned work areas- Holly to the community centre to teach her little preschool children, Susan, Anya, Deborah, Valerie, Michelle, and Kate to MBonge school, and Richard and Ismay to Upper MDumbe School. We missed Cam and Andrew at the school but they were off to assist in painting the roof of the community centre. Particular challenges noted were the difficulty in eating lunch in front of co- workers or the children as they were sent to school without anything. We also heard some painful stories. For myself, I had the first chance to teach. Little did I know that Anya and I would be left alone in the grade one class all day as the teacher decided to go home early in the day. Luckily, we had done some preparations the night before, brought some supplies, and were aided by Kate popping in a couple of times to get a new lesson off the ground. These children spoke no English but had memorized a few lines by note. It was an enriching (and tiring) experience to spend the day with them, and we felt we accomplished quite a lot.
After school, a number of children came to be “tutored” or to play, and most of the volunteers played card games and colored with the children or tutored math. Some were more physical, playing Frisbee, skipping, and soccer. Everyone seemed to have a great time and we had to usher the children out.
Before dinner, we had a valuable lesson in Xhosa, taught be Olga. She said she wasn’t going to talk to us in English anymore… Oh Dear! After dinner, we were treated to a really inspirational talk be Reverand Spiro, who shared with us his experiences growing up in Malungeni, some about his life since, and his hopes for the future. His words reinforce the importance of our presence here. Although he gave us a lot of his time, we could have listened for much longer and asked many more questions.
Tomorrow the schools are closed, so some of us will have a chance to experience some new parts of the culture while others will plan the lessons and clean the community centre. The journey continues to unfold…
Thought of the day: “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t, you’re right” –Henry Ford.
Monday, July 19, 2010
So exciting...our first day!
Monday July 19th, 2010- Created byKate
Today was our first work day in Malungeni. Richard and Ismay set off to MDumbe to teach while Holly took on the pre-schoolers at the community centre. Cam, Andrew, Michelle, Val, Susan, and Debra headed to Mbange School while Tanya, Anya, and I walked to Langeleki school. After a little confusion, we turned around to joint he crew at Mbange. We learned that it’s important to go with the flow and we did have a nice walk.
When we arrived at Mbange, we met with the principal and the teachers. Everyone seemed very excited that we were there. We then went off to various classrooms and interacted with the students. Michelle and Val led the kids in song during recess and all the kids were excited to share some of the songs they knew.
Around noon, Michelle, Val, and Andrew headed off to Mthatha with Olga and Tanya. They picked up supplies and rendezvoused with Michelle’s suitcase. Sounded like they had a few adventures along the way. I can’t wait for tomorrow.
Thought of the day: “Be the change you wish to see in the world” –Ghandi.
Today was our first work day in Malungeni. Richard and Ismay set off to MDumbe to teach while Holly took on the pre-schoolers at the community centre. Cam, Andrew, Michelle, Val, Susan, and Debra headed to Mbange School while Tanya, Anya, and I walked to Langeleki school. After a little confusion, we turned around to joint he crew at Mbange. We learned that it’s important to go with the flow and we did have a nice walk.
When we arrived at Mbange, we met with the principal and the teachers. Everyone seemed very excited that we were there. We then went off to various classrooms and interacted with the students. Michelle and Val led the kids in song during recess and all the kids were excited to share some of the songs they knew.
Around noon, Michelle, Val, and Andrew headed off to Mthatha with Olga and Tanya. They picked up supplies and rendezvoused with Michelle’s suitcase. Sounded like they had a few adventures along the way. I can’t wait for tomorrow.
Thought of the day: “Be the change you wish to see in the world” –Ghandi.
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Same but different...
Sunday July 18, 2010- Created by Anya
Today was a day riddled with wonderful confusion and many new experiences. I am surprised by how different this community is from my own life, yet by the same token, so similar. The biggest difference that I can feel is the language barrier. I feel sorry that I cannot communicate as well as I would like.
I feel as if I am in a Quaker/Amish community because life is so simple without technology. I don’t remember the last night where after dinner I just sat on the couch of the living room without the background of television or computer around. I am surprised by how much I am enjoying it, in all honesty, and hope I can bring this simplicity back home. I am surprised at how little I miss the constant ringing of communication from my cell phone!
I wish everyone good luck tomorrow and hope that we are all anxious for no good reason. I am sure I will dream of new little African friend with whom I formed a connection without even speaking! It’s amazing…
Thought of the day: “The world in which you were born is just one model of reality. Other cultures are not failed attempts at being you; they are unique manifestations of the human spirit.”
Today was a day riddled with wonderful confusion and many new experiences. I am surprised by how different this community is from my own life, yet by the same token, so similar. The biggest difference that I can feel is the language barrier. I feel sorry that I cannot communicate as well as I would like.
I feel as if I am in a Quaker/Amish community because life is so simple without technology. I don’t remember the last night where after dinner I just sat on the couch of the living room without the background of television or computer around. I am surprised by how much I am enjoying it, in all honesty, and hope I can bring this simplicity back home. I am surprised at how little I miss the constant ringing of communication from my cell phone!
I wish everyone good luck tomorrow and hope that we are all anxious for no good reason. I am sure I will dream of new little African friend with whom I formed a connection without even speaking! It’s amazing…
Thought of the day: “The world in which you were born is just one model of reality. Other cultures are not failed attempts at being you; they are unique manifestations of the human spirit.”
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Glad to be here!
Saturday July 17th 2010- Created by Tanya
As I write this entry by candlelight, I am reminded of how lucky I am. It is as you say when you loose one of your senses, the others grow keener and I am so appreciative of what we do have here: a nice warm bed to sleep in, an indoor bathroom to use, and delicious food to eat before going to bed. These luxuries are uncommon to many.
Today has been a long, hard day for many of us no the team as we have traveled from far away places and making a variety of stops along the way. The early arrivals were able to take advantage of the wait as we stopped by the boardwalk in East London to enjoy the scenery before doing some shopping and returning to the airport to meet with the others. After creatively stuffing the van and trailer with our luggage and ourselves, we were on the road for our long journey to Malungeni. A few of us dozed without snoring too loud J. While others chatted and watched the scenery along the way.
We were greeted by a fabulous dinner cooked by Koena, Constance, and Alfred (otherwise known as Chops). During dinner, we started on orientation with introducing of the team members and out host staff along with some information. Afterwards, it was off to bed for an early start tomorrow.
Thought for the day(Valerie): Rumi tells us to sell our cleverness and buy bewilderment.
As I write this entry by candlelight, I am reminded of how lucky I am. It is as you say when you loose one of your senses, the others grow keener and I am so appreciative of what we do have here: a nice warm bed to sleep in, an indoor bathroom to use, and delicious food to eat before going to bed. These luxuries are uncommon to many.
Today has been a long, hard day for many of us no the team as we have traveled from far away places and making a variety of stops along the way. The early arrivals were able to take advantage of the wait as we stopped by the boardwalk in East London to enjoy the scenery before doing some shopping and returning to the airport to meet with the others. After creatively stuffing the van and trailer with our luggage and ourselves, we were on the road for our long journey to Malungeni. A few of us dozed without snoring too loud J. While others chatted and watched the scenery along the way.
We were greeted by a fabulous dinner cooked by Koena, Constance, and Alfred (otherwise known as Chops). During dinner, we started on orientation with introducing of the team members and out host staff along with some information. Afterwards, it was off to bed for an early start tomorrow.
Thought for the day(Valerie): Rumi tells us to sell our cleverness and buy bewilderment.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
