Out of Africa, by Karen Blixen is a lovely biography of colonial Kenya, full of dense language and beautiful descriptions of the country and its people. Blixen, seeing the country through colonialist eyes and also in retrospect from her native Denmark, saw a nobility in the natives, that is not apparent to me. I see their poverty and their desperation as well as a dismal future.
Today, we went to Nairobi. We left the matatu and walked downtown. Soon we were met by a man claiming to be from Zimbabwe, whose family, he claimed, had not eaten for days. Perhaps we could buy him a bag of rice. We have heard the same pitch, in the same words, on almost every trip to the city. We are quite sure it is a con and we carry on. A short time later we were approached by a man selling bracelets. When we declined he begged for something small from us. Later we passed a man with no legs, whom we meet begging each time we take a certain street. We generally give him some small amount. A short time later we brush off a man who starts into the same pitch as the alleged Zimbabwian. Later in the day, after returning home, a Kenyan worker at our school asked if I could give him 50Ksh (the equivalent of about 90 cents). Imagine having to ask for that amount! And still later another person we hardly know asked to borrow $15.00.
These things are nothing. Just reminders during the day of the poverty here, and as if that were not enough the papers are full of accounts of violence, abuse of women and children, corruption, hatred, gross moral misconduct - and I wonder sometimes if, during the short time we have been here, we have accomplished anything that will have long lasting significance.
Near the end of her book, as she is preparing to leave for Denmark, Blixen goes for a walk on the farm. She is looking for a sign, something that will help her to understand what has been the meaning of her life in the country. She meets a rooster from the farm out on its own morning stroll. It in turn comes face to face with a chameleon, also out for a morning walk. Since roosters eat chameleons, there is a confrontation between the two.
…(the cock) gave out a cluck of satisfaction. The chameleon stopped dead at the sight of the cock. He was frightened, but he was at the same time very brave, he planted his feet on the ground, opened his mouth as wide as he possibly could, and to scare his enemy, in a flash he shot out his club-shaped tongue at the cock. The cock stood for a second as if taken aback, then swiftly and determinately he struck down his beak like a hammer and plucked out the chameleon’s tongue.
At that, Blixen chased off the cock and killed the chameleon, since it could no longer catch food to eat and so would have slowly starved to death. She was glad to have saved the chameleon from a slow, painful death but the encounter frightened her and reminded her of the dangerous world she had lived in.
Later, on reflection about the incident, she found in the encounter, the sign she was looking for. Although in the end they were too much for her, she had battled the powers. That was all, but that was enough.
The cock and the chameleon were for me an illustration of what still happens in Kenya. The weak are eaten up by the strong. Perhaps it is that way in all the world but in our civilized country we don’t see it as starkly. What is the answer for this country? Have we made a difference in such a place as this? There is no answer for me, except perhaps this: that we too have battled the powers as best we were able during our short time here.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Decisions, decisions
I'm sorry this has taken so long. It is so frustrating not being able to use the internet at home other than for the simplest things. As a result if I want to add to the blog I have to write something, put it on a disc and take it to the internet cafe. The last two visits I couldn't transfer from the disc to the blog. I hope any that were watching have not given up.
So what have we been spending money on?
First, immediately at the start of school we noticed a shortage of English textbooks in each class that I taught. The students were sharing one text among 3 or more, which made reading in class awkward and doing the Exercises difficult. Fast readers waited for slow readers and there was a lot of craning of necks. Assigning homework was near impossible. And so our first act was to buy additional texts and supplementary books so that pairs of students had books between them. Also we bought storybooks for the Grade 8’s, since I believe that reading for pleasure is essential to help students learn new vocabulary, see grammar used properly and to enjoy the beauty of good English. And more recently we bought more storybooks. They are becoming quite popular among Grade 6, 7 and 8 students.
Other spending on projects has been more difficult, for two reasons. First, almost any technology would not be useful past the first breakdown.The school runs on a shoestring and there is no money for maintenance, or for such things as the internet. Secondly, I am still debating whether this school is progressive enough such that it makes sense to make capital investments in it. For instance we have considered contributing to an addition to the school which might house some computers and a library. I need to give this more thought but my thinking at this time that is that the management of the school would not know how to use the area well, to make it a step towards creating a place of excellence. After a couple of years it would just become another dirty school room and I think that would be a waste of money.
So, what have we decided? Well, when we first came to Kenya some 4 years ago our desire was to invest in people. I chose to teach at Scott Theological College because I felt that helping to train church leaders was a way to change the society. In fact, when we left Scott we decided that we would not return there (although we hadn’t been asked), because we did not believe that the administration were concerned about this same goal, but were more interested in expanding their institution.
Our goal has not changed. We want to help people who may make a difference, who may someday impact their world. In that regard, although they are still very young, we have been impressed with 2 Grade 8 girls. They are both serious students, compete with 2 boys for top marks in class and have goals that they could achieve if they can attend good schools. Both come from poorer families and need help with school fees. And so we have arranged to help with fees for these girls. (The boys, by the way, have parents who can afford fees.)
I'll write more about them at a later time.
So what have we been spending money on?
First, immediately at the start of school we noticed a shortage of English textbooks in each class that I taught. The students were sharing one text among 3 or more, which made reading in class awkward and doing the Exercises difficult. Fast readers waited for slow readers and there was a lot of craning of necks. Assigning homework was near impossible. And so our first act was to buy additional texts and supplementary books so that pairs of students had books between them. Also we bought storybooks for the Grade 8’s, since I believe that reading for pleasure is essential to help students learn new vocabulary, see grammar used properly and to enjoy the beauty of good English. And more recently we bought more storybooks. They are becoming quite popular among Grade 6, 7 and 8 students.
Other spending on projects has been more difficult, for two reasons. First, almost any technology would not be useful past the first breakdown.The school runs on a shoestring and there is no money for maintenance, or for such things as the internet. Secondly, I am still debating whether this school is progressive enough such that it makes sense to make capital investments in it. For instance we have considered contributing to an addition to the school which might house some computers and a library. I need to give this more thought but my thinking at this time that is that the management of the school would not know how to use the area well, to make it a step towards creating a place of excellence. After a couple of years it would just become another dirty school room and I think that would be a waste of money.
So, what have we decided? Well, when we first came to Kenya some 4 years ago our desire was to invest in people. I chose to teach at Scott Theological College because I felt that helping to train church leaders was a way to change the society. In fact, when we left Scott we decided that we would not return there (although we hadn’t been asked), because we did not believe that the administration were concerned about this same goal, but were more interested in expanding their institution.
Our goal has not changed. We want to help people who may make a difference, who may someday impact their world. In that regard, although they are still very young, we have been impressed with 2 Grade 8 girls. They are both serious students, compete with 2 boys for top marks in class and have goals that they could achieve if they can attend good schools. Both come from poorer families and need help with school fees. And so we have arranged to help with fees for these girls. (The boys, by the way, have parents who can afford fees.)
I'll write more about them at a later time.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Loving mercy and justice
When Judy and I were first entrusted by people with donations for the worthy causes we might find in Kenya, we felt a heavy responsibility to use that money wisely. We didn’t however think that it would be difficult to find projects. Certainly the need is everywhere. We are asked for money by locals at least once a week. We almost always say no. We’re sympathetic to those in need, by and large we think Kenyans bear the main responsibility to find solutions to address their own needs. A case in point perhaps occurred during the violence following the election rigging. There were, during the violence, many calls for donations for affected people. We didn’t donate. This was a matter for Kenyans to address. We felt that if right thinking people from all the tribes, (especially those who were Kikuyus and who wanted and benefited from Kibaki’s re-election) had marched in protest and demanded he step down because they too, his constituents, would not stand for the theft of democracy, then Kenya would have made huge strides towards good, honest, government. Instead, Kikuyus (the majority of whom are churchgoers), prayed for peace, talked about peace, but went about their business and did nothing to show their disgust with their leaders. This was a time to stand against corrupt government, yet the Kikuyus I talked to seemed unable to understand that by their inaction had helped create the climate for violence and perpetuated poor and dishonest leadership. They did not seem to understand that they were the ones responsible for change.
As well, we have felt that our place at this time is to help the school where I work, acquire where possible, the resources it needs to be effective in teaching its students. This has, surprisingly, proven more difficult than we expected. I’ll write about this in just a few days.
As well, we have felt that our place at this time is to help the school where I work, acquire where possible, the resources it needs to be effective in teaching its students. This has, surprisingly, proven more difficult than we expected. I’ll write about this in just a few days.
Friday, February 22, 2008
getting around
There are, relatively speaking few cars in Kenya. Ordinary folks cannot easily afford a car (and not surprisingly privately owned vehicles have often seen better days). For most Kenyans, and for us “ordinary folks”, the “matatu” is the travel mainstay.
Matatus are VW-type mini-buses fitted with seats so that 14 passengers can sit four-across. They are old and most often in bad repair. The majority have a stereo system of sorts and occasionally the sound is good enough so that the lyrics can be understood - black African rap - both the lyrics and the decibel levels capable of harming the human ear.
Inside the matatu is decorated is upholstered in mactac and or garish vinyl, sometimes sporting mini pom-poms around the borders, with stickers pasted here and there extolling a favorite English football (soccer) team, starlet/singer or Jesus. The exteriors are mostly white in color, badly in need of bodywork and often displaying inspiring names painted on the back and/or sides – The Killer Machine, The Rasta Masta, Heaven Bound, Meet my Grill. I daresay in mny cases the slogan-work is more expensive than the vehicles itself . Most quote John 3:16 or some biblical message somewhere.
Until legislation was enacted about 4 years ago, to limit the number of passengers theycould carry and to require regulators to limit their speed on treacherous Kenyan roads, matatus helped Kenya lead the world in traffic fatalities.
It is I think impossible to describe the riding experience so as to do it justice. There are hundreds, perhaps thousands on the roads. On a Saturday morning ride to Nairobi they are like thick as flies on Thika Road, outnumbering cars at least 10:1. They are marked with numbers corresponding to their route. They drive their route as if they alone belong on the road. There are unsigned but pre-ordained stops, although they will stop virtually anywhere to pick up a passenger. They race from stop to stop, believing apparently that the first one to reach the next stop will pick up the most passengers and at days-end have made the most circuits of the route, and therefore the most money. It is usual to have 3 or 4 competitors drive to a stopping place on the highway. They honk their horns as they arrive, pull diagonally in front of one another, without a care for blocking the road at that point. The “tout” then jumps out of the sliding door on the side, shouting out their destination, perhaps holding up the number of the route on a small card, and attempts to persuade people at the stop to ride their vehicle. (Today we were near a stop, attempting to cross the road. We had no desire to ride anywhere at the time yet two different touts tried to guide us onto their vehicles, while we protested that we were just crossing the road.) Often passengers will board with a purchase – a bedframe or a large metal car part, for instance. When all available passengers have been boarded the driver honks, starts away, cuts in front of whatever other driver might already be on the road and the tout jumps on. The driver then drives hell-bent for the next stop. To get there he will drive on the left, right or middle of the road, on the right or left shoulder or in either ditch. Nothing is to stand in his or her way of attempting to be first to the next stop. We are sometimes incredulous of the games of chicken they play as they all try to be first to enter an opening into a line of traffic or at an intersection.
I don’t recall seeing other whites on them, and some Kenyans seem astonished as to why we rich “wazungu” are boarding them. The children and (often) the adults stare unbelievingly, but we are generally treated respectfully and honestly.
And there are good reasons for using them. First, they are so numerous that we never wait more than a few minutes for a ride. Next, (and most important) they are amazingly cheap. The 30-minute ride to Nairobi is 30 shillings each – about 50 cents! Finally, they are an unforgettable part of this Kenyan cultural experience.
Friday, February 8, 2008
As Judy has said in a recent e-mail our days have become somewhat routine. In fact there are times while walking in the late afternoon when I think how simple life is and I wonder why that is so hard to take. We like our entertainment and distractions.
The picture is of the school grounds, a relatively small graveled area, with the owner’s home at one end, bathrooms and classrooms to the left and more classrooms to the right. The area is a madhouse at break-time with children running, playing and fighting. It is a wonder that there are no injuries.
My Grade 6, 7 and 8 students are each challenging, each in different ways. Grades 7 and 8 have a number of boys from Stars. They are enjoyable but challenging. The Grade 7’s love games and contests. They are often among the best students, but if I have not thought of a game or contest to teach an English item they might also simply put their heads down and sleep. I try not to get too annoyed since I wonder if they are getting enough sleep at their home.
There are many small things in the classrooms that remind you that education here is different. There are of course, the school uniforms. While they supposedly promote equality among students, some are so full of holes and so dirty that it is quite obvious the student is from a poorer family. Students carry razor blades to sharpen their pencils, whittling the end to a point. Each room has a small plastic jug (about a gallon) filled with drinking water. There is one cup in the classroom, used by all the students in the class. (This too promotes equality - if one student gets sick, presumably all do, although this has yet to happen.) The classrooms have small windows and are very poorly lit. The lack of light for schoolwork bothered me at first, but the students take it for granted and I have gotten used to it. Finally, the rooms are roofed with sheet metal and when it rains the water pelts straight down, thundering off the metal roof to the point that you cannot make yourself heard. You stop and wait, since the rain never seems to last that long.
Enforcing rules can be a problem. Most Kenyan teachers don’t use games, stickers and the like to encourage the students and without these there are no privileges that can be withdrawn as punishment. Students arrive at 7am or earlier and work and talk and stay until about 6:30 when it is near to getting dark, so they can hardly be kept after school! I try to negotiate, be friendly and positive, but recently learned that the old ways still are quite effective.
Unlike the other teachers, I haven't been checking each student’s homework individually and daily, but rather allowed the students to correct their own work together as we discussed the questions together in class. Early this week however I asked the students for their work before class and to my surprise found that most of the students hadn’t done it. I told them how disappointed I was and that I would tell the home room teacher (expecting he would lecture them). Finally I assigned an essay “Why I should do my homework”. I suggested they should include paragraphs that said homework was a way to help them learn, that doing it showed respect for the teacher and that it helped them develop good work habits. I didn’t give the matter much more thought other than deciding to be more vigilant checking the work before class. The next day I read the student’s short essays on doing homework. Most followed my outline. All were sorry and it seemed that I had made my point about doing the assigned work. Then I read the last essay. It began like this:
“One day our teacher Mr. Milner gave us some homework to write. Mr. Milner went and told our class teacher. When the (home room) teacher heard that he (wrote) down names on a little paper. He came in our class and asked us why haven’t you not done the homework. We were afraid to hear that. He told us to kneel down on the floor. We gave him our hands and he beat on us two good sticks. From today I told myself that I won’t refuse to do any homework.”
I felt pretty bad – it reminded me of the many strappings I received as a student. I hated the idea that I had caused them to be hurt, but I must admit that it seems to have gotten results!
Friday, February 1, 2008
Life's Little pleasures
About two weeks ago we travelled to Nairobi (about 25 minutes if you go by car) and went to a North American style shopping centre. It was nice to be back in civilization for a little while. While there we found a music store and bought a DVD for $10.00; Live in Philly by Phil Keaggy. His music has a 1960's feel, and he's a very good solo guitarist. I'd remembered seeing this great version of a song called Salvation Army Band on YouTube. If you enjoy great guitar work, then you'll like this I think. We sure did. It was one of life's little pleasures here in Nairobi.
I know there is some way to add a video to the blog which I can't figure out here at the internet cafe, but if you click on this URL it will take you to YouTube and you can enjoy a great song and performance. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nV3bLZLpqTQ
I know there is some way to add a video to the blog which I can't figure out here at the internet cafe, but if you click on this URL it will take you to YouTube and you can enjoy a great song and performance. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nV3bLZLpqTQ
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Another Morning Stars visit
This past weekend we again visited the Morning Stars children’s home and had another good time. We arrived at lunchtime – a big mistake. Many Kenyans eat their meal with the fingers/hand. That day lunch happened to be kusimo(?) (a favorite Kikuyu dish made of corn meal, potatos, a local green spinach-like vegetable, and other bits of vegetable – all mashed together) - topped with a sort of “bean medley” and avocado pieces on the side. All nice and squishy. As a result when we got out of the car 50 children were waiting to shake our hand, with their dirty “bean medley/avocado” hands - an interesting slithery sensation!
Actually we are now in the hugging stages with some of the older kids. Kenyan friends also greet one another European style with a touching of cheeks on both sides. It’s nice to be seen as their friends.
Next we ate some kusimo - not about to become a favorite. Then we told the kids some stories we had brought (having honed our skills at story telling during our time in Campbell River). It was a good time. I did a couple of finger rhymes, a felt story and then a great story called “Going on a Bear Hunt (with Judy leading the actions). Judy then read a Bible story. Some of the kids were a little old we thought for the stories, but they all joined in and we had fun. No one had ever told them stories before.
Actually we are now in the hugging stages with some of the older kids. Kenyan friends also greet one another European style with a touching of cheeks on both sides. It’s nice to be seen as their friends.
Next we ate some kusimo - not about to become a favorite. Then we told the kids some stories we had brought (having honed our skills at story telling during our time in Campbell River). It was a good time. I did a couple of finger rhymes, a felt story and then a great story called “Going on a Bear Hunt (with Judy leading the actions). Judy then read a Bible story. Some of the kids were a little old we thought for the stories, but they all joined in and we had fun. No one had ever told them stories before.
Then they sang, we played some games on the grass and they danced for us. Singing and dancing are of course, their favorite pastimes.
We ended the afternoon by going to fetch water with some of the girls. I carried a bucket of water up the hill “Kenyan style”, using a scarf tied around the forehead and then to the bucket which hangs on the back.. (One of the girls slung the scarf and bucket over her shoulder. The other balanced it on her head.) I learned just how hard this work is for young kids.
Philip then drove us home. It’s been a hard couple of weeks for him. We weren’t aware of his financial problems but apparently he wasn’t able to afford gas for his car last wek and food is running low. The problem is that he gets most of his food by way of donations from stores, businesses and churches in Kenya. With the political crises here however these donors are giving what they have to the Red Cross for the displaced people – leaving Philip in a tough situation. I don’t want these posts to become ongoing appeals for money, but if anyone would like to help Philip, please let us know. We helped him a bit, but he (and his kids will need more to get through February).
Friday, January 18, 2008
Morning Stars
January 20th, 2008
Most of you reading this blog know of Philip Githaiga, and how some years ago he began Stars for Jesus, a home and rehabilitation centre for street children . The “Stars” now number about 50 boys and Philip is the chief cook and bottle washer along with 2 or 3 staff. It really is his one man ministry, although he has a board of Directors and is a registered charity in Kenya. There are about 30 “Stars” who go to Stema School which is why we decided to volunteer there. The boys call Philip their "father".
Many of you also know that about 6 months ago, Philip was called to help 50 children, boys and girls ranging in age from 2 years to their mid teens. They had been living in a room with the older children providing for their daily needs. One day their slum landlord threw them out. To that time, Philip had been hoping to slow down. Stars was managing well day to day, and he wanted to find a wife and settle down to a more ordinary existence. But he couldn’t ignore the need of these little ones, and so he took them in and started to establish a home for them.
We visited the new home, called “Morning Stars”, with Philip, a little over a week ago. The memory brings a lump to my throat even as a write this. As our car drove into the entrance of the property we were met by about 30 of the children. They were singing to us – a song of welcome. We got out of the car and were swarmed. 2 and 3 children each grabbed a finger of each of my hands (and Judy's) or a pant leg and wouldn’t let go. We were taken on a tour by the 2 "mommas", walked through gates and through the small acreage with its garden and fruit trees, then through the house where the dorm rooms are, looking at all their crowded (but neat and clean) bunks. They were so proud. And throughout this time the kids still held on to our fingers and stroked the hair on our arms or touched our skin or heads. They liked my ponytail!We clambered through doorways 3 kids first, followed by 3 more kids, all hanging on. You feel pretty special when people will not let you go. Too bad we don’t act like this in our adult relationships!
Finally we were taken to their little office where we were given tea, and then 2 or 3 of the older children asked us to take off our shoes so they could wash and oil our feet. I declined this time (I did take a rain check), but Judy’s were washed and rubbed with a salve. After tea I played lawn games with about 30 of the smaller kids while Judy talked with a group of teen girls. I doubt we will ever forget our visit.
Both Stars for Jesus and Morning Stars are worthy projects. These kids live so simply but are so happy and doing so well physically and mentally. Morning Stars are hoping to have chickens, rabbits and a cow or two for the meat, eggs and milk, to eat and to sell. About 30 were to start public school this week. To do this they needed school uniforms ($20.00 each), a desk ($20.00 each) and school supplies. They hadn't the funds to buy the uniforms but were allowed to begin. We have some money from friends and some of our own, but have felt obliged to see first if the school we are at has a need. There are needs all around us and we have been waiting and watching. If nothing seems right in the next month or so we would help the "Stars" and "Morning "Stars. Maybe you would like to help them as well. Let us know.
Most of you reading this blog know of Philip Githaiga, and how some years ago he began Stars for Jesus, a home and rehabilitation centre for street children . The “Stars” now number about 50 boys and Philip is the chief cook and bottle washer along with 2 or 3 staff. It really is his one man ministry, although he has a board of Directors and is a registered charity in Kenya. There are about 30 “Stars” who go to Stema School which is why we decided to volunteer there. The boys call Philip their "father".
Many of you also know that about 6 months ago, Philip was called to help 50 children, boys and girls ranging in age from 2 years to their mid teens. They had been living in a room with the older children providing for their daily needs. One day their slum landlord threw them out. To that time, Philip had been hoping to slow down. Stars was managing well day to day, and he wanted to find a wife and settle down to a more ordinary existence. But he couldn’t ignore the need of these little ones, and so he took them in and started to establish a home for them.
We visited the new home, called “Morning Stars”, with Philip, a little over a week ago. The memory brings a lump to my throat even as a write this. As our car drove into the entrance of the property we were met by about 30 of the children. They were singing to us – a song of welcome. We got out of the car and were swarmed. 2 and 3 children each grabbed a finger of each of my hands (and Judy's) or a pant leg and wouldn’t let go. We were taken on a tour by the 2 "mommas", walked through gates and through the small acreage with its garden and fruit trees, then through the house where the dorm rooms are, looking at all their crowded (but neat and clean) bunks. They were so proud. And throughout this time the kids still held on to our fingers and stroked the hair on our arms or touched our skin or heads. They liked my ponytail!We clambered through doorways 3 kids first, followed by 3 more kids, all hanging on. You feel pretty special when people will not let you go. Too bad we don’t act like this in our adult relationships!
Finally we were taken to their little office where we were given tea, and then 2 or 3 of the older children asked us to take off our shoes so they could wash and oil our feet. I declined this time (I did take a rain check), but Judy’s were washed and rubbed with a salve. After tea I played lawn games with about 30 of the smaller kids while Judy talked with a group of teen girls. I doubt we will ever forget our visit.
Both Stars for Jesus and Morning Stars are worthy projects. These kids live so simply but are so happy and doing so well physically and mentally. Morning Stars are hoping to have chickens, rabbits and a cow or two for the meat, eggs and milk, to eat and to sell. About 30 were to start public school this week. To do this they needed school uniforms ($20.00 each), a desk ($20.00 each) and school supplies. They hadn't the funds to buy the uniforms but were allowed to begin. We have some money from friends and some of our own, but have felt obliged to see first if the school we are at has a need. There are needs all around us and we have been waiting and watching. If nothing seems right in the next month or so we would help the "Stars" and "Morning "Stars. Maybe you would like to help them as well. Let us know.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Getting Better
Well, a week has passed and things feel better than when I last wrote. We are settled in our flat and while all of the annoyances remain we are becoming used to most of them. Routines help pass the time although the evenings are boring. One can only read or listen to the rotating BBC radio programming for so long.
School was to begin this past Monday (Jan. 7th), then was delayed another week because of the electoral violence.The extra time for lesson planning has been welcome. I will teach Grades 6,7 and 8 – teaching each class twice a day. It’s a manageable amount of teaching. I’m a little disappointed not to be teaching the younger grades as mentally that was what I was preparing for. It would have been fun and quite a learning experience. I sure enjoyed the little kids at CRCS. There are 2 concerns with the teaching however – textbooks with unreasonable expectations and full of awkward English, and the expectation that teachers to be at school at 7 a.m. (African time of course, which means I will be the only one to show up on time.)
The school is ramshackle, and poorly kept as it appears in the picture that I posted earlier. It does have electricity, but not all rooms have light bulbs. There are no resources although I asked for and was provided with chalk and a homemade brush. There are not enough English student workbooks for all the students and they share. (We will purchase textbooks for all the students although it breaks my heart to buy such poor quality texts.) It is easy to be judgmental about the school and the Kenyan education system, but I am doing my best to hold my tongue. At times this is hard however because it is people like Stephen and Mary who could improve the system, but they don’t seem to think anything is out of the ordinary. And so you know that things will not change. I wonder in view of this what we should do to try and provide any long-term help. At this point we simply serve.
Aweek ago, on Monday we walked to Stars for Jesus (about 25 minutes or so). Then last Wednesday we drove with Philip to the new orphans home called Morning Stars. It was a beautiful and touching visit. We’ll write about the visit next time.
And most importantly, on Sunday we found a restaurant/bar which sell samosas (50 cents each), although we must have a ride to reach the place. We love samosas, and as a bonus there is live entertainment Sunday afternoons – assuming that a Swahili rendition of “You Picked a Fine Time to Leave Me Lucille” is in fact “entertainment”.
Blessings, ‘til next time.
School was to begin this past Monday (Jan. 7th), then was delayed another week because of the electoral violence.The extra time for lesson planning has been welcome. I will teach Grades 6,7 and 8 – teaching each class twice a day. It’s a manageable amount of teaching. I’m a little disappointed not to be teaching the younger grades as mentally that was what I was preparing for. It would have been fun and quite a learning experience. I sure enjoyed the little kids at CRCS. There are 2 concerns with the teaching however – textbooks with unreasonable expectations and full of awkward English, and the expectation that teachers to be at school at 7 a.m. (African time of course, which means I will be the only one to show up on time.)
The school is ramshackle, and poorly kept as it appears in the picture that I posted earlier. It does have electricity, but not all rooms have light bulbs. There are no resources although I asked for and was provided with chalk and a homemade brush. There are not enough English student workbooks for all the students and they share. (We will purchase textbooks for all the students although it breaks my heart to buy such poor quality texts.) It is easy to be judgmental about the school and the Kenyan education system, but I am doing my best to hold my tongue. At times this is hard however because it is people like Stephen and Mary who could improve the system, but they don’t seem to think anything is out of the ordinary. And so you know that things will not change. I wonder in view of this what we should do to try and provide any long-term help. At this point we simply serve.
Aweek ago, on Monday we walked to Stars for Jesus (about 25 minutes or so). Then last Wednesday we drove with Philip to the new orphans home called Morning Stars. It was a beautiful and touching visit. We’ll write about the visit next time.
And most importantly, on Sunday we found a restaurant/bar which sell samosas (50 cents each), although we must have a ride to reach the place. We love samosas, and as a bonus there is live entertainment Sunday afternoons – assuming that a Swahili rendition of “You Picked a Fine Time to Leave Me Lucille” is in fact “entertainment”.
Blessings, ‘til next time.
Help!
Help!
(I wrote this post shortly after we first moved to the place we will live for the next few months. We didn’t have internet and so couldn’t put it in the blog until now. It records our first impressions. Fortunately things have become easier since then as the next post tells.
January 5th, 2008
When we were thinking of using a weblog to chronicle our trip and work in Kenya, our intention was to let our experience encourage others to try a similar volunteer opportunity. So we named the blog “wecanyoucan” with the expectation that the posts would be positive and motivating. Also, we expected to have challenges and so the blog was also intended to keep those who were interested in what we are doing informed of our needs. Unfortunately this initial impression of our situation will not be positive and motivating, but we think we need to be honest about what our feelings and responses are to our new environment.
First, I (Howard) wonder if I had a certain amount of pride in making this trip, and if, somewhere in the subconscious there is the idea that a trip like we are taking is exotic in some way. If so, I have been disabused of both notions.
We were picked up yesterday by Philip (of the orphanage “Stars for Jesus”) and by Stephen of Stema school and driven to our apartment. The flat and school are in an urban area, with houses and businesses fronting the one-lane dirt road which runs past the school and our place. We next met Stephen’s wife Mary (hence “Stema”). They all did their best to make us feel wanted and welcome. We saw our apartment and then were taken shopping to buy our household needs- a bed, blanket, water purifier, kitchen and table things and the like. On returning to our place and now alone we are struck by our new situation.
Our ground floor apartment is almost directly across the road from the school. The road is the main thoroughfare for the community. Our front room and bedroom window are about 20 feet from the road. The road intersects at the entrance to our place and at the intersection there are a couple of fruit/vegetable stands and an assortment of other small, poor businesses, including unfortunately for us, a bar. There is fairly constant local foot and vehicle traffic, and noise. Last night neighborhood dogs barked more or less constantly. (Thankfully - we brought earplugs!) This morning there is the noise of roosters crowing, cows bawling, a donkey braying, a far-away ghetto blaster playing Kenyan pop music, car noises, babies crying or screaming, children playing and people talking and laughing. Judy and I love our privacy and peace and quiet and in our Campbell River condo often were annoyed by parking lot and occasional neighbor noise. This new situation is about 10 X worse and will require a big adjustment for us.
A further concern is the lack of security. We were told there was a guard at the gate 24/7. This is not really the case and we need to deal emotionally with our concern for our safety. We have ordered an iron safety door for our main entry door.
In spite of the closeness of people however, the worst feeling is of being so entirely alone. There is nothing exotic about urban Kenya – just the opposite. As the recent riots have shown the people are generally poor, occasionally lawless and mostly ignorant of the rest of the world. We are the only white people in the area and we are stared at by everyone. There is no one to really talk to about life as we have known it or are experiencing it now. Some local people may speak basic English, although in our area most speak the tribal language Kikuyu. There is no entertainment or diversions within walking distance. The nearest shopping area, a crowded dirty strip of highway is about a 25 minute walk. It has numerous small shops catering to local needs. There are no things such as theatre, museums or galleries, or even interesting window-shopping to be had. We have no vehicle to allow us to travel anywhere, although we will in time learn to use the primitive “matatu” (mini bus) system which serves as public transportation here. We have no mission organization to call on for support. We feel quite overwhelmed.
Intellectually of course we knew all this beforehand, but when you are finally here, and your hosts have left for their own homes, and you lay in bed the first night, the full impact of your situation hits you. And our initial thoughts are to wonder if it is possible to live like this, or if we have made a serious mistake of judgment and should start to plan to leave.
The next morning we know we can’t opt for running away and we decide to persevere, at least for the time being. We have made a commitment that we can’t give up on so soon. Today we will go walking and try to discover our area. We will arrange for a cell phone working and internet access. Judy reminded me of a relevant verse that is helping us to adjust to our situation. “unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.” Our challenge is to die for a time to those things we enjoyed and our false expectations. But this will not be easy and we would appreciate your prayers.
(I wrote this post shortly after we first moved to the place we will live for the next few months. We didn’t have internet and so couldn’t put it in the blog until now. It records our first impressions. Fortunately things have become easier since then as the next post tells.
January 5th, 2008
When we were thinking of using a weblog to chronicle our trip and work in Kenya, our intention was to let our experience encourage others to try a similar volunteer opportunity. So we named the blog “wecanyoucan” with the expectation that the posts would be positive and motivating. Also, we expected to have challenges and so the blog was also intended to keep those who were interested in what we are doing informed of our needs. Unfortunately this initial impression of our situation will not be positive and motivating, but we think we need to be honest about what our feelings and responses are to our new environment.
First, I (Howard) wonder if I had a certain amount of pride in making this trip, and if, somewhere in the subconscious there is the idea that a trip like we are taking is exotic in some way. If so, I have been disabused of both notions.
We were picked up yesterday by Philip (of the orphanage “Stars for Jesus”) and by Stephen of Stema school and driven to our apartment. The flat and school are in an urban area, with houses and businesses fronting the one-lane dirt road which runs past the school and our place. We next met Stephen’s wife Mary (hence “Stema”). They all did their best to make us feel wanted and welcome. We saw our apartment and then were taken shopping to buy our household needs- a bed, blanket, water purifier, kitchen and table things and the like. On returning to our place and now alone we are struck by our new situation.
Our ground floor apartment is almost directly across the road from the school. The road is the main thoroughfare for the community. Our front room and bedroom window are about 20 feet from the road. The road intersects at the entrance to our place and at the intersection there are a couple of fruit/vegetable stands and an assortment of other small, poor businesses, including unfortunately for us, a bar. There is fairly constant local foot and vehicle traffic, and noise. Last night neighborhood dogs barked more or less constantly. (Thankfully - we brought earplugs!) This morning there is the noise of roosters crowing, cows bawling, a donkey braying, a far-away ghetto blaster playing Kenyan pop music, car noises, babies crying or screaming, children playing and people talking and laughing. Judy and I love our privacy and peace and quiet and in our Campbell River condo often were annoyed by parking lot and occasional neighbor noise. This new situation is about 10 X worse and will require a big adjustment for us.
A further concern is the lack of security. We were told there was a guard at the gate 24/7. This is not really the case and we need to deal emotionally with our concern for our safety. We have ordered an iron safety door for our main entry door.
In spite of the closeness of people however, the worst feeling is of being so entirely alone. There is nothing exotic about urban Kenya – just the opposite. As the recent riots have shown the people are generally poor, occasionally lawless and mostly ignorant of the rest of the world. We are the only white people in the area and we are stared at by everyone. There is no one to really talk to about life as we have known it or are experiencing it now. Some local people may speak basic English, although in our area most speak the tribal language Kikuyu. There is no entertainment or diversions within walking distance. The nearest shopping area, a crowded dirty strip of highway is about a 25 minute walk. It has numerous small shops catering to local needs. There are no things such as theatre, museums or galleries, or even interesting window-shopping to be had. We have no vehicle to allow us to travel anywhere, although we will in time learn to use the primitive “matatu” (mini bus) system which serves as public transportation here. We have no mission organization to call on for support. We feel quite overwhelmed.
Intellectually of course we knew all this beforehand, but when you are finally here, and your hosts have left for their own homes, and you lay in bed the first night, the full impact of your situation hits you. And our initial thoughts are to wonder if it is possible to live like this, or if we have made a serious mistake of judgment and should start to plan to leave.
The next morning we know we can’t opt for running away and we decide to persevere, at least for the time being. We have made a commitment that we can’t give up on so soon. Today we will go walking and try to discover our area. We will arrange for a cell phone working and internet access. Judy reminded me of a relevant verse that is helping us to adjust to our situation. “unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.” Our challenge is to die for a time to those things we enjoyed and our false expectations. But this will not be easy and we would appreciate your prayers.
Friday, January 11, 2008
Patience!
This is just a quick note from a local internet cafe. We are having real trouble getting decent internet service where we are. I have a couple updates ready to put on the blog, but need to be able to do this at home since it takes quite a while to prepare and post them If you are checking on our blog, don't give up. We are still well. Our biggest issue is dealing with the isolation and culture shock. Had a real nice visit to Stars and Morning Stars the other day. Will write more about it soon.
Thanks for your recent note Peter. Glad to see somebody is reading!
Thanks for your recent note Peter. Glad to see somebody is reading!
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Smile!
“Smile! You’re in Kenya”
So reads the sign as you leave customs and enter the general area at Kenyatta Airport in Nairobi. From the airport you then travel a potted asphalt road, which would not be tolerated in North America, and drive similar roads into and throughout Nairobi. Our first impression is that little has changed in the 3-4 years since we were here. And presently of course rival tribes are killing one another over rigged elections by corrupt politicians. Such is Africa. Great promise, and great failure. It makes you want to cry, rather than smile.
It is easy to get discouraged, but so far we do not feel that way. Firstly, we remember the children whom we are to serve. The unrest reminds us that perhaps our small contribution can help them acquire the understanding they need to act wisely when they are adults in their country.
As well, we are safe and sound at an AIM Guest House. The streets are very quiet and most businesses in the city are closed. The police have roadblocks on many of the major roads. There was to be a major rally yesterday by a political party in a nearby park and so we could hear the occasional round of tear gas being fired and occasional multiple rifle bursts. Another rally is said to be planned for today. Possibly we will travel to northeast Nairobi with Philip of Stars for Jesus. He tells us that the area has not suffered violence.
We will see.
So reads the sign as you leave customs and enter the general area at Kenyatta Airport in Nairobi. From the airport you then travel a potted asphalt road, which would not be tolerated in North America, and drive similar roads into and throughout Nairobi. Our first impression is that little has changed in the 3-4 years since we were here. And presently of course rival tribes are killing one another over rigged elections by corrupt politicians. Such is Africa. Great promise, and great failure. It makes you want to cry, rather than smile.
It is easy to get discouraged, but so far we do not feel that way. Firstly, we remember the children whom we are to serve. The unrest reminds us that perhaps our small contribution can help them acquire the understanding they need to act wisely when they are adults in their country.
As well, we are safe and sound at an AIM Guest House. The streets are very quiet and most businesses in the city are closed. The police have roadblocks on many of the major roads. There was to be a major rally yesterday by a political party in a nearby park and so we could hear the occasional round of tear gas being fired and occasional multiple rifle bursts. Another rally is said to be planned for today. Possibly we will travel to northeast Nairobi with Philip of Stars for Jesus. He tells us that the area has not suffered violence.
We will see.
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