2010-10-12
Before I left for Senegal I got advice from some of last year’s fellows. Of the various conversations I had, one piece of advice stuck and tumbled through my mind like laundry: have no expectations. For the most part I think I have honored this counsel, remaining unruffled by kamikaze-like drivers, “bucket” baths (kind of...
Read More2010-10-12
I’ve been in Dakar for one week. The first few days, I was numb from sensory overload. I see sheep in the street meridian, bright colorful linens, flies swarming the meat stands and more western clothes than I expected. I hear my brothers converse in Wolof, the fierce but melodic call to prayer from the...
Read More2010-10-11
(This blog was originally posted on Oct 11, 2010, but due to technical difficulties was reposted on Oct 26) This past week had us getting into the Quiten᷉o rhythm; Spanish classes in the morning, a huge lunch back at home with the host families, and lectures at the university about various subjects to finish up...
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On this partly cloudy Sunday morning in Brazil, I was able to wake up and read excerpts from three great Beat generation books: Dharma Bums and On the Road by Jack Kerouac, and Howl by Allen Ginsberg. Bringing these books were quite deliberate: they continually emphasize living in the moment. I have tried to continually plan...
Read More2010-10-11
Piled in the van on the way from the Salvador airport, I just remember Tony turning to us and saying, “Okay guys, we’re going to spend a night at this house, get showered, get dinner, and cover some logistics. Tomorrow, we’ve got to get up nice and early to go to your orientation and meet...
Read More2010-10-09
In French, the word for trash is ordure: the remains of a destroyed or broken up something, now worthless and fit only for disposal. To contradict my previous post, the last four days have left me feeling, well, trashed. As I lay stewing in a pool of sweat this morning, trying to will the power...
Read More2010-10-08
Welcome to Quito. A bustling city packed with hard working people who have no time to waste. It’s a beautiful city with exotic colored buildings and houses, surrounded by rolling hills that give way to snow-covered Mt. Cotopaxi and the world’s tallest active volcano, Chimborazo. The sidewalks are full with street vendors selling exotic fruits,...
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