To see pictures from the trip and a few videos go to
http://picasaweb.google.com/hjkehn/ISeeWithNewEyesProject#
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Joy
Our last night at St. Mary's, Michael had dinner with Brother Dominic, Kahlil and I. He showed up in the shirt I had brought him as a gift and after the boys left the table, the three of us continued to talk for a long time. Mostly about what makes St. Mary's Secondary School successful. It is ranked in the top 25 for all Secondary Schools in the country. But more than just the academic performance, we talked about why St. Mary's successfully turns "the boy into a man". A man that is compassionate, honest, generous, and hard-working. Brother Dominic talked about the main priorities of De La Salle schools. Most of them were no different from what you would expect-- trained teachers, etc. The priority that sets the De La Salle schools apart is their focus on service and character.
The students have "community service" which is done ON CAMPUS-- cleaning, cutting the grass, taking care of the animals, washing, and so on. New classrooms were being built and the students had to do their part. Beyond that there is the expectation that they will take care of EACH OTHER. Brother Dominic mentioned the example of a nearby school where some Class 4 students were fighting with Class 1 and 2 students. Because Class 4 had to take an exam, the younger students were sent home to end the conflict even though they were the ones that were being bullied. This of course sent the message that test scores are more important than how people treat each other. Brother Dominic said that at a De La Salle school, the opposite would happen.
Additionally, he talked about the criticism St. Mary's has received for keeping the rescue center ON the secondary school campus-- having the two groups of boys mixed. "People who criticize have never spent time here. If they did...they would understand". What they would understand is that the secondary school students serve as role models for the Juniors, and the Juniors serve as a reminder to the secondary school students of their many blessings. St. Mary's also gives their students far more freedom than other boarding schools. Things are less fancy, but more affordable. More than a third of the students are on scholarship. The premises are covered with inspiration statements, and then of course there is also the spiritual emphasis. It's ok to talk about God. It's ok to pray out loud.
This conversation really resonated with me. Those of you who have talked with me in depth over the last few years about education, know that a focus on service is one that I really believe in and feel is absent from most public school curricula (I know there are many reasons for this). As exemplified by St. Mary's and other schools like it, it seems to make sense that students who are taught and expected to "take care" of their school and each other, would in turn care more about their education. There is less fighting, less material distraction, and they learn to support each other. If I could start my own school, I would want its foundation to be a commitment to service and character. I can't help but think of all the ways students in a place like NYC could be giving back in similar ways to their communities. There is such potential for transformation and inspiration.
***
But anyway. Darren and Kahlil stayed up our last night spending time with the boys. Specifically a group of about ten they were most close to. There was no TV, no video games....just a group of kids sitting and talking, playing tag in the dark.
Our last morning, at first D and K told me there were just going to stay in their rooms until we left. I understood that inclination. In the end they came out to play a few last games of basketball. I ended up sitting around with many many kids, trying my best not to think about leaving. I wasn't ready at all. I tried walking into the dorm to say goodbye but starting choking and had to turn around. Michael was no where to be found, and I had a hunch it was because he didn't want to say goodbye either.
I thought this time around it'd be easier to leave, but in fact it was harder. Maybe because I just wasn't ready, or maybe because it became really clear to me this trip, that I genuinely LOVE these kids and Michael and other people I have met through my times at St. Mary's. In turn, I feel loved and appreciated there in a way I have never felt before. Whether I meant for it or not, something has been STARTED that I could never just walk away from. I have made a commitment to people-- to being a person they can count on. And that....is worth more than new shoes or even books. Isn't that what everyone really wants?
And so when it was time to leave, the "four boys" along with Juma, David and Hussein, carried our bags as we walked to the matatu stand in the center of town. Kahlil had his arm around Dennis the whole time. I asked Darren why he thought they were carrying our bags. "Because they like us a lot", he said. I smiled. Yes perhaps that's part of it...but more so, it's that it's the right thing to do. They have been taught to do the right thing no matter what.
I called Michael as we were walking and he said he'd meet us in town. My heart was pounding in my chest as I searched for his face. He put so much effort out for us while we were there. Michael is a graduate from St. Mary's. He is living proof of the kind of man a school like that helps create. We all stood next to the van and began saying goodbye. Darren and Kahlil got into the back, and then the other 7 piled in. Michael told them to get out, as he he told me "I shouldn't have come". I could see the tears in his eyes as I myself began to cry.
As we drove away, my face was in my hands. Darren and Kahlil saw their teacher break down for the first time, and I'm sure it was a little uncomfortable for them even though I tried to be as discreet as possible. Everything in me wanted to turn around and go back. Why would you leave good people who love you like that? Why would you leave somewhere that welcomes you with such open arms, and shows you such protection?
I told the boys I will come back as soon as I can...and hopefully when I do, it will be with more people. I hope this is the first of many "I See with New Eyes Projects".
We brought with us gifts and money, but it was US who received the most. The people at St. Mary's taught and reminded us of what's really important in life. Not new shoes, but rather qualities you cannot touch. Generosity,
kindness,
courage,
and friendship.
"Joy can be real only if people look upon their life as a service, and have a definite object in life outside themselves and their personal happiness". -Tolstoy.
Asante Sana St. Mary's boys, Michael, Brother Dominic, Brother William, Brother Oscar, Brother Peter, Brother Paul, Brother James, Jane, Harrison, Mark, Anna, Karanja,the Mutahi family, Brother Kombe and everyone else who made our experience in Kenya full of joy.
I will meet you again soon.
***
Our video diary will hopefully become something I can share with you in the near future. Stay tuned for a photo album and a few videos I took on my camera.
The students have "community service" which is done ON CAMPUS-- cleaning, cutting the grass, taking care of the animals, washing, and so on. New classrooms were being built and the students had to do their part. Beyond that there is the expectation that they will take care of EACH OTHER. Brother Dominic mentioned the example of a nearby school where some Class 4 students were fighting with Class 1 and 2 students. Because Class 4 had to take an exam, the younger students were sent home to end the conflict even though they were the ones that were being bullied. This of course sent the message that test scores are more important than how people treat each other. Brother Dominic said that at a De La Salle school, the opposite would happen.
Additionally, he talked about the criticism St. Mary's has received for keeping the rescue center ON the secondary school campus-- having the two groups of boys mixed. "People who criticize have never spent time here. If they did...they would understand". What they would understand is that the secondary school students serve as role models for the Juniors, and the Juniors serve as a reminder to the secondary school students of their many blessings. St. Mary's also gives their students far more freedom than other boarding schools. Things are less fancy, but more affordable. More than a third of the students are on scholarship. The premises are covered with inspiration statements, and then of course there is also the spiritual emphasis. It's ok to talk about God. It's ok to pray out loud.
This conversation really resonated with me. Those of you who have talked with me in depth over the last few years about education, know that a focus on service is one that I really believe in and feel is absent from most public school curricula (I know there are many reasons for this). As exemplified by St. Mary's and other schools like it, it seems to make sense that students who are taught and expected to "take care" of their school and each other, would in turn care more about their education. There is less fighting, less material distraction, and they learn to support each other. If I could start my own school, I would want its foundation to be a commitment to service and character. I can't help but think of all the ways students in a place like NYC could be giving back in similar ways to their communities. There is such potential for transformation and inspiration.
***
But anyway. Darren and Kahlil stayed up our last night spending time with the boys. Specifically a group of about ten they were most close to. There was no TV, no video games....just a group of kids sitting and talking, playing tag in the dark.
Our last morning, at first D and K told me there were just going to stay in their rooms until we left. I understood that inclination. In the end they came out to play a few last games of basketball. I ended up sitting around with many many kids, trying my best not to think about leaving. I wasn't ready at all. I tried walking into the dorm to say goodbye but starting choking and had to turn around. Michael was no where to be found, and I had a hunch it was because he didn't want to say goodbye either.
I thought this time around it'd be easier to leave, but in fact it was harder. Maybe because I just wasn't ready, or maybe because it became really clear to me this trip, that I genuinely LOVE these kids and Michael and other people I have met through my times at St. Mary's. In turn, I feel loved and appreciated there in a way I have never felt before. Whether I meant for it or not, something has been STARTED that I could never just walk away from. I have made a commitment to people-- to being a person they can count on. And that....is worth more than new shoes or even books. Isn't that what everyone really wants?
And so when it was time to leave, the "four boys" along with Juma, David and Hussein, carried our bags as we walked to the matatu stand in the center of town. Kahlil had his arm around Dennis the whole time. I asked Darren why he thought they were carrying our bags. "Because they like us a lot", he said. I smiled. Yes perhaps that's part of it...but more so, it's that it's the right thing to do. They have been taught to do the right thing no matter what.
I called Michael as we were walking and he said he'd meet us in town. My heart was pounding in my chest as I searched for his face. He put so much effort out for us while we were there. Michael is a graduate from St. Mary's. He is living proof of the kind of man a school like that helps create. We all stood next to the van and began saying goodbye. Darren and Kahlil got into the back, and then the other 7 piled in. Michael told them to get out, as he he told me "I shouldn't have come". I could see the tears in his eyes as I myself began to cry.
As we drove away, my face was in my hands. Darren and Kahlil saw their teacher break down for the first time, and I'm sure it was a little uncomfortable for them even though I tried to be as discreet as possible. Everything in me wanted to turn around and go back. Why would you leave good people who love you like that? Why would you leave somewhere that welcomes you with such open arms, and shows you such protection?
I told the boys I will come back as soon as I can...and hopefully when I do, it will be with more people. I hope this is the first of many "I See with New Eyes Projects".
We brought with us gifts and money, but it was US who received the most. The people at St. Mary's taught and reminded us of what's really important in life. Not new shoes, but rather qualities you cannot touch. Generosity,
kindness,
courage,
and friendship.
"Joy can be real only if people look upon their life as a service, and have a definite object in life outside themselves and their personal happiness". -Tolstoy.
Asante Sana St. Mary's boys, Michael, Brother Dominic, Brother William, Brother Oscar, Brother Peter, Brother Paul, Brother James, Jane, Harrison, Mark, Anna, Karanja,the Mutahi family, Brother Kombe and everyone else who made our experience in Kenya full of joy.
I will meet you again soon.
***
Our video diary will hopefully become something I can share with you in the near future. Stay tuned for a photo album and a few videos I took on my camera.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Ready or Not
I think perhaps everyone is experiencing a bit of separation anxiety. I don't know. There is a strange energy floating around. It's a bit overwhelming right now; we took group photos yesterday, bought shoes for boys today and all the while people are handing us replies to my students letters, and wanting to spend time. There's a tension and I'm trying to just remain calm and upbeat. "When are you coming back?" says countless faces.
The photo session yesterday was awesome, except for the fact that Darren and Kahlil punished me for making them wash clothes by refusing to smile in any of the pictures. Which makes me wish I had had them wash clothes every day. It's ok, I have them smiling in enough other ones. But still, I wonder why they saw this chore as such as source of embarrassment when everyone here has to do it every day. Their American sense of entitlement came out. I just let it be. Maybe they will think about it differently down the road. One thing is for sure, you can't force someone to realize anything. And I also know that they realize more than they admit (as seen in their writing).
Well anyway, I got up early this morning to go get shoes for a group of ten boys (we've been doing this in small groups). They were beaming over piles of shoes and strings of shoes; trying pair after pair on for one that would fit. In the end, they all got a very nice pair of black shoes for school.
Later, I took the four boys out to get books they need and some clothing they need (for example, they each own one pair of socks). I went with one of their supervisors, Harrison. Darren and Kahlil came too. It didn't go exactly as I had imagined. When we ended at the "shopping center" they all got so completely overwhelmed that they practically froze and stopped speaking. Dennis in fact started crying. It was all quite strange and Harrison and I didn't know what to do. In the end we worked it out by reassuring them they had plenty of time to make selections, but it was hard for a while. I didn't mean for them to feel some kind of pressure or stress, but I forgot that this was no ordinary experience for them. They don't go shopping once a month or even once a year. It was good for Darren and Kahlil to see.
Ironically, the one place we had an easy time buying things was the bookshop.
Some things I am proud of the boys for:
Neither of them have complained about a lack of TV, soda or french fries; despite the fact that in many conversations before we left, these things were a major concern. "I can't LIVE WITHOUT TV!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" YES YOU CAN.
Despite the fact that Darren brought his PSP with no games and for the first few days "played it" for some kind of comfort, it became a non-existing object.
I give Kahlil props for trying all the food and liking most of it, even though he didn't eat anything for the first two days and was initially reluctant.
I give Darren props for really trying to play soccer. He's very competitive and hates not being "in the game" or "the best". Yet, I saw him trying something that didn't come easily and that he wasn't all that good at. He fell, and missed, and in the end became part of a team. "Thanks for letting me play".
Both Darren and Kahlil taught their six kids with tremendous patience and humor.
They both learned how to interact with adults they don't know all too well at a dinner table. I think Darren even has the sign of the cross down at this point. :-)
They have both gotten to the point where I know they wanted to lose their temper and could have easily, but they kept it together anyway. If they can do that here, they can do that anywhere. I'm proud of them for that.
I am proud of them for making friends and socializing more than I ever expected despite a real language barrier. Kahlil and Dennis' friendship is pretty awesome; I don't know how much they are actually talking, but they are close. Darren definitely used sports as his means for finding a common language with the boys.
Although we have definitely gotten on each other's nerves over the last fifteen days, at the end of the day I'm proud that we always came back together to write and read. I have loved this time.
We are leaving tomorrow. I wonder what it will be like. I know Darren and Kahlil are sad and don't know really how to process it. I remember last time I was here in 2008, I didn't officially say goodbye to the four boys particularly because I didn't know if I'd ever see them again and I didn't know how to say goodbye; how to just leave. I think Darren and Kahlil are dealing with this right now. I think they are beginning to understand how much these boys have looked forward to these two weeks, and how sad they will be to see us go.
I wonder what Darren and Kahlil will tell their friends about this experience when they go home.
I wonder if they will start having dreams of red earth.
I wonder if they will have any regrets.
I wonder what they will choose to remember and how they will apply what they learned here.
Tomorrow is going to be a LONG day, and I need to pray for patience. We will head to Nairobi in a matatu around noon. Then get picked up there by a taxi. Our flight is not until late at night but I can't take risks with the traffic and potentially anything else. So keep us in your thoughts. I've just bought snacks for the long journey home.
I have been sleeping with my video tapes :-) and can't wait to show you all the pictures.
Darren, Kahlil and I have seen each other fall on the floor laughing, and we've seen each other afraid. We have seen each others tears and heard each other say, "I did it!". Thank you to everyone who helped support this project. Nothing that we have done would've been possible without it. I hope this is just the beginning....
LOVE,
Hannah
The photo session yesterday was awesome, except for the fact that Darren and Kahlil punished me for making them wash clothes by refusing to smile in any of the pictures. Which makes me wish I had had them wash clothes every day. It's ok, I have them smiling in enough other ones. But still, I wonder why they saw this chore as such as source of embarrassment when everyone here has to do it every day. Their American sense of entitlement came out. I just let it be. Maybe they will think about it differently down the road. One thing is for sure, you can't force someone to realize anything. And I also know that they realize more than they admit (as seen in their writing).
Well anyway, I got up early this morning to go get shoes for a group of ten boys (we've been doing this in small groups). They were beaming over piles of shoes and strings of shoes; trying pair after pair on for one that would fit. In the end, they all got a very nice pair of black shoes for school.
Later, I took the four boys out to get books they need and some clothing they need (for example, they each own one pair of socks). I went with one of their supervisors, Harrison. Darren and Kahlil came too. It didn't go exactly as I had imagined. When we ended at the "shopping center" they all got so completely overwhelmed that they practically froze and stopped speaking. Dennis in fact started crying. It was all quite strange and Harrison and I didn't know what to do. In the end we worked it out by reassuring them they had plenty of time to make selections, but it was hard for a while. I didn't mean for them to feel some kind of pressure or stress, but I forgot that this was no ordinary experience for them. They don't go shopping once a month or even once a year. It was good for Darren and Kahlil to see.
Ironically, the one place we had an easy time buying things was the bookshop.
Some things I am proud of the boys for:
Neither of them have complained about a lack of TV, soda or french fries; despite the fact that in many conversations before we left, these things were a major concern. "I can't LIVE WITHOUT TV!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" YES YOU CAN.
Despite the fact that Darren brought his PSP with no games and for the first few days "played it" for some kind of comfort, it became a non-existing object.
I give Kahlil props for trying all the food and liking most of it, even though he didn't eat anything for the first two days and was initially reluctant.
I give Darren props for really trying to play soccer. He's very competitive and hates not being "in the game" or "the best". Yet, I saw him trying something that didn't come easily and that he wasn't all that good at. He fell, and missed, and in the end became part of a team. "Thanks for letting me play".
Both Darren and Kahlil taught their six kids with tremendous patience and humor.
They both learned how to interact with adults they don't know all too well at a dinner table. I think Darren even has the sign of the cross down at this point. :-)
They have both gotten to the point where I know they wanted to lose their temper and could have easily, but they kept it together anyway. If they can do that here, they can do that anywhere. I'm proud of them for that.
I am proud of them for making friends and socializing more than I ever expected despite a real language barrier. Kahlil and Dennis' friendship is pretty awesome; I don't know how much they are actually talking, but they are close. Darren definitely used sports as his means for finding a common language with the boys.
Although we have definitely gotten on each other's nerves over the last fifteen days, at the end of the day I'm proud that we always came back together to write and read. I have loved this time.
We are leaving tomorrow. I wonder what it will be like. I know Darren and Kahlil are sad and don't know really how to process it. I remember last time I was here in 2008, I didn't officially say goodbye to the four boys particularly because I didn't know if I'd ever see them again and I didn't know how to say goodbye; how to just leave. I think Darren and Kahlil are dealing with this right now. I think they are beginning to understand how much these boys have looked forward to these two weeks, and how sad they will be to see us go.
I wonder what Darren and Kahlil will tell their friends about this experience when they go home.
I wonder if they will start having dreams of red earth.
I wonder if they will have any regrets.
I wonder what they will choose to remember and how they will apply what they learned here.
Tomorrow is going to be a LONG day, and I need to pray for patience. We will head to Nairobi in a matatu around noon. Then get picked up there by a taxi. Our flight is not until late at night but I can't take risks with the traffic and potentially anything else. So keep us in your thoughts. I've just bought snacks for the long journey home.
I have been sleeping with my video tapes :-) and can't wait to show you all the pictures.
Darren, Kahlil and I have seen each other fall on the floor laughing, and we've seen each other afraid. We have seen each others tears and heard each other say, "I did it!". Thank you to everyone who helped support this project. Nothing that we have done would've been possible without it. I hope this is just the beginning....
LOVE,
Hannah
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
learning from experience
Visiting the Masai Boma (village) on Monday was quite interesting.....the chief welcomed us and Darren announced that he wanted his decorative walking stick. The chief's first stop was to show us a homemade map of the village out of rocks and sticks. They keep their cows in the middle of the village to protect them from predators like lions. Their huts are made out of cow dung so that paired with the cows meant a LOT of flies. I had the video camera out when this became an issue for Darren and Kahlil. I mean, there were a LOT of flies. The chief, who luckily had a sense a humor, handed Darren something to swat them with. "What is that?" Darren asked. "A wildebeest tale", the chief replied. I got this all on camera mind you. By some grace, the boys held it together, even enough to go inside one of the huts to appreciate its size and build. Extremely small; a few small holes in the walls for light. A bed of cow skin and little stools for sitting. The pens where they keep their cows/goats are made out of sticks and the top part is one big spider web. Th boys learned how to make fire with sticks and I participated in a welcoming dance the women did for us. They adorned me with necklaces. Beautiful women. Unfortunately, I think the fly situation overwhelmed the boys' appreciation of Masai culture. I hope they absorbed more than it seemed. We were able to buy souvenirs from this village, appropriately named "View point", and it felt good to know that we were directly supporting a group.
Before we left, our waiter proposed marriage to me OR proposed that we go into a cell phone business together. Also, Andy the owner said he looked forward to our next group of ten (btw, I found out that Mara West originally began as a mission camp-- the economy section was the original part). Mark (our guide) also made it clear, that if I ever return with more students, he's ready to be our personal guide. :-) (I might have fallen in love him.) Mark is actually a Masai himself, which I realized when I saw he was missing his two bottom teeth. He grew up herding cows, and later ended up going to college. He wasn't wearing traditional Masai clothing, but we ended up talking quite a bit about his experiences. That's how he knew so much about the animals and where to go.
Taking off in the plane from the Masai Mara was emotional for me. Maybe it was the fact that Mark told us he was going to miss us with a depth that made the hairs on my arm stand up. Darren and Kahlil were the first Black Americans Mark had met on safari, and I think on the whole, we were very friendly and interactive with him in a way that probably is not common. He really enjoyed seeing our excitement and appreciation of EVERYTHING. Darren wanted to show him EVERY SINGLE picture he took. Maybe my spirit was shaking because of the sheer magnitude of the land and creatures living on it. Maybe it was the gratitude I felt for being able to afford to go on safari at all..AND experience it with these two young men. I don't know....but my spirit was trembling.
My friend Mwangi (I lived next to his family back in 2008), arranged for a trusted taxi diver to pick us up from Wilson Airport at 5:30pm on Monday. Our taxi driver Karanja was wonderful. I knew his car wasn't going to break down so that's the first important thing. Next, since we were going to be driving back to Nyeri in the semi-darkness, it was important to be extra careful. I wouldn't have done it in a matatu or with a random taxi driver. Thika Road (the highway we must take) has no street lights, or even a line to divide the road into lanes. Karanja drove slowly, because sometimes there are cars driving without lights themselves, and also bandits sometimes leave traps to give cars flat tires. The boys slept most of the way...and I was his extra set of eyes.
At some point on the drive, the boys initiated a conversation about college which lasted for about an hour. It was pretty awesome-- we talked about their college admission essay and what they might say.
Along the way though, it became clear that Darren was experiencing some kind of bladder infection. Fortunately, I had medicine with me (he is totally fine now). But again, thank God we were in a taxi. And Karanja knew safe places to stop.
When we arrived back at St. Mary's, it definitely felt like we had reached home. We were excited and triumphant.
The boys will be writing this afternoon. I am writing in Michael's office.
Thank you for the comments and emails I've received. They mean EVERYTHING. I am definitely running out of steam. Although Darren and Kahlil have more than adjusted to life here-- there is still so much to explain and be understood. I think they often forget that the boys here...although they often act like regular kids, have NOT had "regular" lives, and many of them have known incredible loss and pain. I also wonder how much Darren and Kahlil understand the generosity and protection we have been shown by the Brothers and my friends here. They have gotten much better about saying thank you and being helpful, but I'm still not really sure they understand how much people have gone out of their way to feed them, keep them safe, etc. These are things that might take time to register.
Before we left for Safari, I asked the boys to clean the floor of their room which was splattered with mud. I didn't realize until we returned, that they had not only used the mop, but also one of their BED SHEETS. Jane, our house mother and cook, was NOT HAPPY AT ALL. Nice Sheets are expensive, hard to come by, and washing is no easy task here. Of course, Darren and Kahlil weren't thinking about any of that when they decided to use it. "What's the big deal?" I was pretty upset, but had to remind myself that this was a important learning experience. So I had them wash their clothes by hand (the sheet is ruined), much to their horror. They were not happy at all about it, and Darren kept yelling "Child Labor!". I will tell you this though-- by the end of it...they had a better understanding for why Jane was upset.
Before we left, our waiter proposed marriage to me OR proposed that we go into a cell phone business together. Also, Andy the owner said he looked forward to our next group of ten (btw, I found out that Mara West originally began as a mission camp-- the economy section was the original part). Mark (our guide) also made it clear, that if I ever return with more students, he's ready to be our personal guide. :-) (I might have fallen in love him.) Mark is actually a Masai himself, which I realized when I saw he was missing his two bottom teeth. He grew up herding cows, and later ended up going to college. He wasn't wearing traditional Masai clothing, but we ended up talking quite a bit about his experiences. That's how he knew so much about the animals and where to go.
Taking off in the plane from the Masai Mara was emotional for me. Maybe it was the fact that Mark told us he was going to miss us with a depth that made the hairs on my arm stand up. Darren and Kahlil were the first Black Americans Mark had met on safari, and I think on the whole, we were very friendly and interactive with him in a way that probably is not common. He really enjoyed seeing our excitement and appreciation of EVERYTHING. Darren wanted to show him EVERY SINGLE picture he took. Maybe my spirit was shaking because of the sheer magnitude of the land and creatures living on it. Maybe it was the gratitude I felt for being able to afford to go on safari at all..AND experience it with these two young men. I don't know....but my spirit was trembling.
My friend Mwangi (I lived next to his family back in 2008), arranged for a trusted taxi diver to pick us up from Wilson Airport at 5:30pm on Monday. Our taxi driver Karanja was wonderful. I knew his car wasn't going to break down so that's the first important thing. Next, since we were going to be driving back to Nyeri in the semi-darkness, it was important to be extra careful. I wouldn't have done it in a matatu or with a random taxi driver. Thika Road (the highway we must take) has no street lights, or even a line to divide the road into lanes. Karanja drove slowly, because sometimes there are cars driving without lights themselves, and also bandits sometimes leave traps to give cars flat tires. The boys slept most of the way...and I was his extra set of eyes.
At some point on the drive, the boys initiated a conversation about college which lasted for about an hour. It was pretty awesome-- we talked about their college admission essay and what they might say.
Along the way though, it became clear that Darren was experiencing some kind of bladder infection. Fortunately, I had medicine with me (he is totally fine now). But again, thank God we were in a taxi. And Karanja knew safe places to stop.
When we arrived back at St. Mary's, it definitely felt like we had reached home. We were excited and triumphant.
The boys will be writing this afternoon. I am writing in Michael's office.
Thank you for the comments and emails I've received. They mean EVERYTHING. I am definitely running out of steam. Although Darren and Kahlil have more than adjusted to life here-- there is still so much to explain and be understood. I think they often forget that the boys here...although they often act like regular kids, have NOT had "regular" lives, and many of them have known incredible loss and pain. I also wonder how much Darren and Kahlil understand the generosity and protection we have been shown by the Brothers and my friends here. They have gotten much better about saying thank you and being helpful, but I'm still not really sure they understand how much people have gone out of their way to feed them, keep them safe, etc. These are things that might take time to register.
Before we left for Safari, I asked the boys to clean the floor of their room which was splattered with mud. I didn't realize until we returned, that they had not only used the mop, but also one of their BED SHEETS. Jane, our house mother and cook, was NOT HAPPY AT ALL. Nice Sheets are expensive, hard to come by, and washing is no easy task here. Of course, Darren and Kahlil weren't thinking about any of that when they decided to use it. "What's the big deal?" I was pretty upset, but had to remind myself that this was a important learning experience. So I had them wash their clothes by hand (the sheet is ruined), much to their horror. They were not happy at all about it, and Darren kept yelling "Child Labor!". I will tell you this though-- by the end of it...they had a better understanding for why Jane was upset.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
"Africa is the place to be"
I have to write very fast because the lodge we are staying at charges
a fortune to use the computer.
a fortune to use the computer.
Brother Paul delivered us safely to the Brothers home in Karen,
Nairobi on Friday. The traffic was HORRIBLE but managed to stay
positive via tangerines. There was a brief moment when Darren was
threatening to pee in a bottle. And another brief span of time when I
thought I was going to suffocate if I inhaled any more car exhaust.
Anyway Brother James welcomed us to the HUGE house.which was more like
a labyrinth of rooms. The first thought that came to my mind was, "In
my Father's house there are many rooms". And in a way, it felt like
heaven. For one, we were finally out of the car and in fresh air.
And then he showed us to clean rooms, soap, and offered us
refreshments. The boys chatted with a group of visitors from
Minnesota. I wanted to put my head in my soup when Darren and Kahlil
were asked if they like to read and both said "NO!" Mind you, they've
been begging to our book every day...doing the voices....and so on.
Sigh.
So then Paul drove us to Wilson Airport and we took a tiny, ten person
airplane to the Masai Mara....Mark picked us up and here we are. It
is absolutely surreal to be in the midst of all this land...We are
staying at Marawest Economy Safari Camp in two tents (with thatched
roofs). This place is abolutely stunning. We can see Masai walking in
the distance- noticeable by their red dress, herding goats. The boys
were immediately obsessed with the lizards. It was HILARIOUS. At
night we are given kerosene lamps for our rooms. The whole camp is
powered by solar and wind power. There is another section for "high
end" visitors, but we like our tents and our beautiful bathrooms a
little distance away and a private dining area. There has been a lot
of card and scrabble playing. We have made friends with the staff.
Everyone loves the boys-- they have been talking to Angela (the
owner's daughter) for about an hour.
Mark is our guide and we went on safari yesterday afternoon upon
arriving and ALL day today. WE SAW IT ALL! I had to keep a journal
of all the things the boys said, which I will try and share now:
When we got here Darren screamed, "I'm the Kind of the World!"
On safari, Kahlil asked..."Is that a kangaroo?"
Later...."Why that giraffe grillin' (staring at) me?"
"I wonder what it's like living in the wild?"
At one point, the sky literally opened up and a shaft of light poured
down over us. Kahlil said, "The Lord is calling us."
Darren sang different tunes from the Lion King (this was awesome,
espeically since we've had some points of contention over rapping in
the backseat and the 48 hour period when the hook from "Gin and Juice"
was stuck in both their heads).
"Africa is the place to be!"
At one point Darren commented on the absolute silence of nature-- "If
this was concrete, we could hear a pin drop".
We saw a pelican and Darren asked if it was seagull.
Both of them are fascinated by animal poop.
Last night while journaling, Darren studied a framed poster of the
different kinds of mammals. Then today he had all their names
down..."See that's a Thompson's gazelle because of..."
Mark our guide has been great with them. It's amazing how quiet
children can become when they are told that if they breathe too loud,
a lion might jump our of the grass.
Sleeping here is quite an experience. I woke up in the middle of the
night to the sound of a zebra munching grass by my tent. When the
boys joined me for breakfast this morning, they announced they hadn't
slept at all. " THERE WAS A WILDEBEAST!" I don't know how much they
were exaggerating, but I give them serious props for not screaming or
waking me up.
The food has been amazing....we've seen elephant. zebra, giraffe (they
were standing by our plane when it landed), antelope, rhino, hippo,
crocodile,hyena, lion, buffalo, baboon.....
Tomorrow we will go to a Masai boma (village). You can see their mud
huts in the distance, and I'm extremely excited for the boys to see
this tribe that is still culturally intact. Then we fly back to
Nairobi and straight back to St. Mary's tomorrow night.
We are so thankful for this experience, which many Kenyans never even
get to have. It's been an unforgettable two days.
Friday, July 30, 2010
high and low
I am sitting in Michael's office writing this. Tears are hitting the
desk top. I just got word that a past co-worker of mine was fatally
hit by a car in Punja. It has been quite sometime since someone I've
known has died a premature or unfair death. I feel sick. We were not
close, but he was a good person.
desk top. I just got word that a past co-worker of mine was fatally
hit by a car in Punja. It has been quite sometime since someone I've
known has died a premature or unfair death. I feel sick. We were not
close, but he was a good person.
This news comes on the heels of last night's joy. We had a
celebration of sorts to hand out the t-shirts, pens, revision books
and letters from my Brooklyn students. It was incredible. The
happiness was palpable. Seeing all the kids in our t-shirts, reading
letters together.....and then dancing ....priceless. I don't know if
someone did indeed send Darren and letter of encouragement, but he got
up and danced. I've never seen him so nervous but he was cheered and
ended up doing a duet with an older boy. Later, I had them put on
Empire State of Mind and the THREE of us got up.....and then KAHLIL
danced...which was a pretty big deal. By the end of the night, some of
the kids had already written back to my student on the BACK of their
letter. Such excitement.
I looked over at one point and Darren had Sammy (5 yrs) on his lap and
in his arms. He held him for an hour.
Anyway....I am still crying so I am going to stop writing. It is
almost time for teaching. I can hear the boys' basketball bouncing.
Brother Paul is going to personally drive us to Nairobi (Andy-- he
also know Dennis Lee very well), and we have been invited to stay at
the Brother's house there for the night and Paul will drive us to the
airport tomorrow. I feel incredibly blessed by the generosity and
protection my friends here have shown us.
Love.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Finding our Way
The past two days have been solid. Darren and Kahlil seem to have gotten over the whole mud thing. I wake up in the morning and they are making eggs with Jane. They have been on time for teaching each morning. I told them they could watch a movie Tuesday night alone in the TV room on our compound. They picked one out and I left them alone to eat popcorn. Before leaving, I told them that the Juniors were also watching a movie in a classroom. I didn't want to force them to go; the smell of a hundred boys scrunched together in one room trying to watch a tiny television screen can be a bit much. I can only handle it for twenty minutes. Anyway...I left to go write in my room about twenty minutes later I walked by the TV room and it was empty. So I took my flashlight and found that they had decided to go be with the boys instead. :-)
One challenge has been to get Darren and Kahlil to get off the defensive. Their inclination when people stare, or when people laugh, or most recently when Darren got hit in the face on the basketball court....is to think that it is because someone is out to get them. "The kid with the stick is NOT going to hit you!" This is further complicated by the fact that often when they ask a question, they assume it is understood because the person on the other side is smiling or says "yes". This can easily turn into a hot mess. But, fortunately some of the secondary school boys, and especially JUMA (one of the older boys at the Rescue Center) rushes in at such moments to mediate/ translate. I watch them work it out and I'm grateful. I know Darren and Kahlil are realizing that they are surrounded by people who would jump in front of a vehicle for them or give their dinner up for them...but it does require a mentality adjustment. Making eye contact, smiling, saying good morning to everyone, trusting a stranger....these are new expectations. It just get easier and easier though, and it's beautiful to witness.
Last night it was Brother Peter's birthday and we had a wonderful celebration...complete with a delicious cake. I ate three pieces. Three. A giant grasshopper was on the wall by our table. After Kahlil and Darren had left, Kahlil returned a few minutes later "to check if his grasshopper was still there" and Darren returned a few minutes later to ask when we were going to read.
After they played for a while, we met up as usual for reading and writing time. Darren ate an orange and made the announcement- " there should be a warning on these oranges-- Do not open without goggles". And when I asked Kahlil where his shirt was, he told me he had given it away to Dennis.
It's funny because Darren and Kahlil don't like people staring at them, however today while we were walking in town, they insisted on wearing tank tops while everyone is wearing parkas and winter hats. Michael said to them-- "now you are attracting attention..." These are battles I'm not fighting...:-)
Yesterday, we went through the slums..particularly to help a family. One child is actually at St. Mary's Rescue Center. Where this woman was living was beyond poverty, and I felt extremely overwhelmed trying to think about how best to use the donation. I was trying my best not to choke crouching on a piece of wood, while smoke from her fire filled the entire space. Holes in the roof reflected little dabs of light across plastic walls. When Michael translated for me, she said she wanted the money to be used for her son's education not her. Darren and Kahlil were clearly uncomfortable and I let them get air in a nearby corn field. While driving through the slums, Darren and Kahlil started acting up a bit which I know is because it's extremely hard to process what they were seeing. How do you make sense of the fact that people....just as human as you....are living in inhumane conditions?
Last night after the birthday celebration, we had a serious debrief on what they had seen. I think it was extremely important to see where many of the boys from the Rescue Center were rescued from. It helps to understand why, to the boys, life at the orphanage is such a huge improvement. Their dorm might smell like urine, but they have beds and blankets and they are safe.
Today we went to visit one of the nearby Primary Schools where Benson, Dennis, Simon and Godfrey attend. I have to say I was blown away by the condition of the classrooms and overcrowding. 60 students to a class. It is the best Primary school in the area, but classes of 55 are normal. Once again, Darren and Kahlil were clearly overwhelmed and a bit uncomfortable but as usual....they got it together and were very friendly and positive. We stopped by Juma's school too. He was so proud to show us around. I know what they saw in the slums and at the schools today will take time to settle.
Tomorrow we leave for Safari. Brother Paul who is coming tonight will be giving us a ride back to Anna's. We leave Saturday morning for Masai Mara. I'm so excited. Kahlil and Darren do not want to leave St. Mary's and so we will return Monday night and stay here until it is time to leave instead of spending time in Nairobi. I'm in agreement that this is the right decision. I myself am thankful for the safety and guidance the Brothers and Michael offer here in Nyeri.
Michael is the one who has taken us everywhere, and is purchasing $200 worth of Revision books right now for the boys at the Rescue Center. He just called me to ask if it'd be all right if he took a taxi back ($1.50) because the books are too heavy for him to carry. He is so incredibly honest and kind....
GOOD PEOPLE!
So tonight we will have more dancing I think (this time with the music I brought) and Michael will present the revision books and give everyone pens. The t-shirts too are about to get out there.
One challenge has been to get Darren and Kahlil to get off the defensive. Their inclination when people stare, or when people laugh, or most recently when Darren got hit in the face on the basketball court....is to think that it is because someone is out to get them. "The kid with the stick is NOT going to hit you!" This is further complicated by the fact that often when they ask a question, they assume it is understood because the person on the other side is smiling or says "yes". This can easily turn into a hot mess. But, fortunately some of the secondary school boys, and especially JUMA (one of the older boys at the Rescue Center) rushes in at such moments to mediate/ translate. I watch them work it out and I'm grateful. I know Darren and Kahlil are realizing that they are surrounded by people who would jump in front of a vehicle for them or give their dinner up for them...but it does require a mentality adjustment. Making eye contact, smiling, saying good morning to everyone, trusting a stranger....these are new expectations. It just get easier and easier though, and it's beautiful to witness.
Last night it was Brother Peter's birthday and we had a wonderful celebration...complete with a delicious cake. I ate three pieces. Three. A giant grasshopper was on the wall by our table. After Kahlil and Darren had left, Kahlil returned a few minutes later "to check if his grasshopper was still there" and Darren returned a few minutes later to ask when we were going to read.
After they played for a while, we met up as usual for reading and writing time. Darren ate an orange and made the announcement- " there should be a warning on these oranges-- Do not open without goggles". And when I asked Kahlil where his shirt was, he told me he had given it away to Dennis.
It's funny because Darren and Kahlil don't like people staring at them, however today while we were walking in town, they insisted on wearing tank tops while everyone is wearing parkas and winter hats. Michael said to them-- "now you are attracting attention..." These are battles I'm not fighting...:-)
Yesterday, we went through the slums..particularly to help a family. One child is actually at St. Mary's Rescue Center. Where this woman was living was beyond poverty, and I felt extremely overwhelmed trying to think about how best to use the donation. I was trying my best not to choke crouching on a piece of wood, while smoke from her fire filled the entire space. Holes in the roof reflected little dabs of light across plastic walls. When Michael translated for me, she said she wanted the money to be used for her son's education not her. Darren and Kahlil were clearly uncomfortable and I let them get air in a nearby corn field. While driving through the slums, Darren and Kahlil started acting up a bit which I know is because it's extremely hard to process what they were seeing. How do you make sense of the fact that people....just as human as you....are living in inhumane conditions?
Last night after the birthday celebration, we had a serious debrief on what they had seen. I think it was extremely important to see where many of the boys from the Rescue Center were rescued from. It helps to understand why, to the boys, life at the orphanage is such a huge improvement. Their dorm might smell like urine, but they have beds and blankets and they are safe.
Today we went to visit one of the nearby Primary Schools where Benson, Dennis, Simon and Godfrey attend. I have to say I was blown away by the condition of the classrooms and overcrowding. 60 students to a class. It is the best Primary school in the area, but classes of 55 are normal. Once again, Darren and Kahlil were clearly overwhelmed and a bit uncomfortable but as usual....they got it together and were very friendly and positive. We stopped by Juma's school too. He was so proud to show us around. I know what they saw in the slums and at the schools today will take time to settle.
Tomorrow we leave for Safari. Brother Paul who is coming tonight will be giving us a ride back to Anna's. We leave Saturday morning for Masai Mara. I'm so excited. Kahlil and Darren do not want to leave St. Mary's and so we will return Monday night and stay here until it is time to leave instead of spending time in Nairobi. I'm in agreement that this is the right decision. I myself am thankful for the safety and guidance the Brothers and Michael offer here in Nyeri.
Michael is the one who has taken us everywhere, and is purchasing $200 worth of Revision books right now for the boys at the Rescue Center. He just called me to ask if it'd be all right if he took a taxi back ($1.50) because the books are too heavy for him to carry. He is so incredibly honest and kind....
GOOD PEOPLE!
So tonight we will have more dancing I think (this time with the music I brought) and Michael will present the revision books and give everyone pens. The t-shirts too are about to get out there.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
just the beginning
Darren and Kahlil woke me up yesterday morning after nine. I opened the door to the sound of rain in the background. "THERE ARE COWS WALKING AROUND!". I told them I needed coffee before anything else. Yes there were cows, and before long they were playing soccer around the cows on the field in the mud. It has been raining quite often and the mud is EVERYWHERE. Darren and Kahlil are right now not pleased at all with the state of their sneakers. This morning I found them in their room, the entire place covered in mud, as they were trying to clean their shoes with toilet paper...their sink clogged with dirt. deep breath. Parents, please email and reassure that you will get them new shoes when they get back. I don't want them obsessing over their shoes, or worse....not playing because they don't want them to get dirty. Sigh.
We gave Benson, Simon, Godfrey and Dennis (aka "the four boys") each a letter from one of my students in BK. I don't know if it was hearing the words of my Brooklyn students through the mouths of these Kenyan boys, or if it was the words themselves, or if it was the fact that the four boys read the letters almost perfectly. Two years ago when I met them, I was teaching them how to sound out letters. What a testament to hard work, good schooling (after I left in 2008, I insisted they start going to primary school for real nearby), and inspiration (they all want to attend St. Mary's Secondary School which is in the top 25 out of 6,000 schools in Kenya). I was completely impressed and they were extremely happy with their letters. Kahlil and Darren showed the faces of the students who had written from pictures I brought. We haven't officially handed out the t-shirts yet, but the few we have given out have been HUGE hits. And Mr. Krevsky's stickers-- my God you'd think they were hundred dollar bills. Interesting though, that the only time I've seen one of them get mean towards one another, was when they were trying to get stickers. Ugh. Glad we have enough t-shirts for everyone.
(Darren's computer just shut off.....he's furious). Sigh. So many little things like that happen and I am trying to remind myself to be patient. We eat with the Brothers every day at their table, which is really quite an honor. They are very quiet and pensive. I've had to kick the boys under the table a few times :-), but for the most part I think the Brothers are happy to have new people around. Jane the cook really loves the boys who compliment her egg and cheese sandwiches as often as possible.
Getting the boys to shower is a bit of a challenge.....they tried to trick me yesterday. Darren loves that there's a switch for hot water...just like in Karate Kid.
Despite the fact that I've heard a lot of "no homo" and other such phrases in the past, it's interesting/to see Darren and Kahlil both allowing Simon and Dennis particularly to put their arms around them, touch their face, etc. I thought for sure that would freak them out, but they seem to understand (without talking about it) that in this place, showing affection towards your "brothers" is accepted...even necessary.
Watching Darren and Kahlil teach for the first time was amazing. They took to it immediately. Kahlil jotted down in his journal how many kids had pencils the size of toothpicks. For the past two days we've pulled out six Juniors for two on one tutoring. Using mostly phonics and math flashcards.....it's an extremely cool thing to listen to Darren teaching math tricks, and Kahlil trying to roll his rrrrs so the kids understand him. "Now this is your homework" Kahlil says....:-) Followed by (to me) "I don't know how you teachers do this all day!" Of course the six boys pulled out are glowing like they won the lottery.
I gave them their cards from their math teacher Ms. Jones and Kahlil told me he wants his gift of $10 to be given to the four boys at the end of the trip. Hope that's ok with you Glandy. :-)
We had our first "entertainment celebration" already. Darren needs some encouragement to show them his dance moves-- I really can't be the one that teaches them how American kids "get lite". He only got up after I did and then left me out there alone until Juma (very cool older boy that's befriended them) rescued me. I was a bit disappointed but hopefully he will feel more comfortable next time.
You know I forgot to tell you before that when we first arrived, the buzz amongst the kids was that it wasn't me. That it was my "younger sister". LOL. Yes, they said "you have changed! You have gotten smaller!" I don't think this is true, but it was pretty funny. When Michael Ndungu (he's mostly in charge of the Juniors) saw me, he was laughing so hard. "I am so relieved!...but yes, I see what they are saying." I love Micheal-- he's such a wonderful presence at the school and will be the one to arrange all the supplies we want to get for the Juniors. I sat down with him yesterday, and we plan on buying everyone new shoes (though Darren and Kahlil want to make a special trip with the four boys), revision (text) books, and pens....to start.
So the boys will continue teaching every morning while we are here. Tomorrow we will go visit a family in the slums outside of Nyeri town (where most of the orphans are from) with Michael because someone back home specified that their donation go to a family. We will see what they need and then return next week with supplies. This will be a new experience for Darren and Kahlil-- to see this part of Nyeri in the midst of absolute natural beauty.
Thursday, the kids are finally done with their term exams. We will go visit the school where Benson, Godfrey, Simon and Dennis now attend- Nyamachaki Primary School. Then BROTHER PAUL arrives to visit us. He was the head Brother when I was here in '08. He will also give us a ride to Nairobi Friday afternoon. We leave for Safari Saturday morning. Originally, we had planned to spend next week in Nairobi but we've talked about it and the boys and I want to return to St. Mary's instead. :-)
Last night was a little rough. Some of the expectations here are very new and I'm definitely having to stop them and remind them. Also, unfortunately, there is a TV room. For the most part this has been a non-issue, except that last night I had to explain a second time why I have a key to this room and they don't. A little frustrating, but again, I have to remind myself that mostly everything here (except for the egg sandwiches) is new.
So I said (in my own words) what a friend back home told me to say if such a moment arose-- "Listen...we repping America.....we got to hold this down.."...together. After an hour long conversation about the importance of how we treat each other, we ended up reading six chapters of True Diary and I got an invitation to sleep over.
What can I say....we have only been here for 2 1/2 days.
I had trouble sleeping last night-- so much I want to do-- so much I want the boys to see.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
I forgot...
Oh and the focus of today's message at church was on the passage that talks about how "if you knock on the door, then door will be opened for you". Imagine that, and hundreds of boys singing in harmony, with the Serenity Prayer and "God's gift to you is your life, your gift to God is what you make of it" painted on the walls of the assembly hall.
Have I ever been this happy?
Everything has gone about as perfectly as I could've hoped. The flights were long but the boys never complained. They slept through the entire second flight. All our bags arrived and we got to Anna's house around 11:30pm. The boys had trouble sleeping that night. New smells, darkness, and unfamiliar territory. I stayed up with them playing shoots and ladders and then we read a little in our book (The Absolutely True Diary of a Part Time Indian). I didn't sleep at all that night.
In the morning the boys took a shower via a bucket and I made them eggs. Again, they did not complain. I had to laugh a little remembering times when Darren bawked about putting up chairs after Advisory.
When we arrived at St. Mary's yesterday around 1:30pm, it was like we had reached home. Brother Dominic is now the head brother at St. Mary's-- Brother Paul transferred but is coming to see us on Thursday. Brother Dominic is from NYC! The Catholic order is Brother de la Salle. Their brother schools in NYC are St Peter's in Staten Island, St. Raymond in the Bronx and..............Bishop Loughling in BROOKLYN where both Kahlil's parents graduated from and which is around the corner from my school RELC . Coincidence? I don't think so.
So Brother Dominic has us set up beautifully. The boys have their own room and bathroom (shower with hot water), and I am nearby. He's cool.
Seeing the boys from the Rescue Center, specifically Benson, Godfrey, Simon and Dennis is competely surreal. Those four are the ones I worked with the most when I was here in 2008. It's hard to even express. They are SO happy, and have completely taken Darren and Kahlil under their wings. They wanted to tell me how well they are doing in school; and we will go with them one day this week so I can speak to their teachers. They have two more years in primary school and then they hope to attend Secondary School at St. Mary's.
Darren played his first soccer game our first day. Basketball is non-stop- the boys love watching them play.
The rooster outside Darren and Kahlil's room is a newness, as is the food. I can't get them to eat anything. Thank God they prepared hamburgers last night. This will be a bit of a challenge. Everything they have tried so far, they have liked...but they are resistant. I made eggs this morning after church which was AMAZING (church I mean, my eggs were not bad). A huge hall of boys SINGING and DANCING. There are about 140 boys at the Rescue Center but about 400 at the Secondary School (which for most is a boarding school), so the weekends are FULL of boys.
We now just walked into town with my six sons :-). I looked back to see Kahlil laughing with Dennis, and Simon had his arm around Darren. They haven't stopped smiling, and Kahlil and Darren have been extremely outgoing and friendly. I can't get over how improved their English is!
I have started a page in my journal called "Things Darren Says"....
on the plane he asked, "will we be up by the sun?"
on the plane he said, "how about we do a foreign exchange; I give you my fruit for your roll"
Darren calls me a hippie and at one point started singing, "Say it Loud; I'm a hippie and I'm proud."
Certainly there have been some rough moments (mostly due to a lack of technology and soda), but not many.....I'm completely impressed with how Darren and Kahlil have transitioned so far. Darren in particular seems completely at home, and I know Kahlil just needs a little more time. My motto has been just not to make things a big deal with them. To give them space....and lots of affirmation.
Basically, I feel absolutely happy here. Seeing these kids playing together is priceless, as is their discovery that they have much in common. We are beginning to think about how we want to help the Juniors (the orphan boys at St. Mary's). Darren and Kahlil think we need to get them shoes immediately..so that will be fun. Honestly, quite a few are wearing exactly the same clothes I remember them in from 2 years ago). Walking around town, Kahlil got a little mad at people staring at me, but he'll get used to it.
We have not handed out the t-shirts yet....but of course the balls have been a big hit.
Well, we are off to find Kahlil a mango.
Tomorrow they can see what the one room school house is like and perhaps try a little teaching.
Peace.
In the morning the boys took a shower via a bucket and I made them eggs. Again, they did not complain. I had to laugh a little remembering times when Darren bawked about putting up chairs after Advisory.
When we arrived at St. Mary's yesterday around 1:30pm, it was like we had reached home. Brother Dominic is now the head brother at St. Mary's-- Brother Paul transferred but is coming to see us on Thursday. Brother Dominic is from NYC! The Catholic order is Brother de la Salle. Their brother schools in NYC are St Peter's in Staten Island, St. Raymond in the Bronx and..............Bishop Loughling in BROOKLYN where both Kahlil's parents graduated from and which is around the corner from my school RELC . Coincidence? I don't think so.
So Brother Dominic has us set up beautifully. The boys have their own room and bathroom (shower with hot water), and I am nearby. He's cool.
Seeing the boys from the Rescue Center, specifically Benson, Godfrey, Simon and Dennis is competely surreal. Those four are the ones I worked with the most when I was here in 2008. It's hard to even express. They are SO happy, and have completely taken Darren and Kahlil under their wings. They wanted to tell me how well they are doing in school; and we will go with them one day this week so I can speak to their teachers. They have two more years in primary school and then they hope to attend Secondary School at St. Mary's.
Darren played his first soccer game our first day. Basketball is non-stop- the boys love watching them play.
The rooster outside Darren and Kahlil's room is a newness, as is the food. I can't get them to eat anything. Thank God they prepared hamburgers last night. This will be a bit of a challenge. Everything they have tried so far, they have liked...but they are resistant. I made eggs this morning after church which was AMAZING (church I mean, my eggs were not bad). A huge hall of boys SINGING and DANCING. There are about 140 boys at the Rescue Center but about 400 at the Secondary School (which for most is a boarding school), so the weekends are FULL of boys.
We now just walked into town with my six sons :-). I looked back to see Kahlil laughing with Dennis, and Simon had his arm around Darren. They haven't stopped smiling, and Kahlil and Darren have been extremely outgoing and friendly. I can't get over how improved their English is!
I have started a page in my journal called "Things Darren Says"....
on the plane he asked, "will we be up by the sun?"
on the plane he said, "how about we do a foreign exchange; I give you my fruit for your roll"
Darren calls me a hippie and at one point started singing, "Say it Loud; I'm a hippie and I'm proud."
Certainly there have been some rough moments (mostly due to a lack of technology and soda), but not many.....I'm completely impressed with how Darren and Kahlil have transitioned so far. Darren in particular seems completely at home, and I know Kahlil just needs a little more time. My motto has been just not to make things a big deal with them. To give them space....and lots of affirmation.
Basically, I feel absolutely happy here. Seeing these kids playing together is priceless, as is their discovery that they have much in common. We are beginning to think about how we want to help the Juniors (the orphan boys at St. Mary's). Darren and Kahlil think we need to get them shoes immediately..so that will be fun. Honestly, quite a few are wearing exactly the same clothes I remember them in from 2 years ago). Walking around town, Kahlil got a little mad at people staring at me, but he'll get used to it.
We have not handed out the t-shirts yet....but of course the balls have been a big hit.
Well, we are off to find Kahlil a mango.
Tomorrow they can see what the one room school house is like and perhaps try a little teaching.
Peace.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Safari Njema
A YEAR AGO at this time, I was having the reoccurring dream of walking through St. Mary's turquoise gate with Brooklyn students. Seriously. In my dream, I couldn't see who they were, but I knew they were from Brooklyn, and I had the same dream over and over. This led me to send an email to my principal and assistant principal. I knew without their blessing, I wouldn't even consider the idea. Even though this project is not a "school trip", I needed their support. They gave it to me immediately. Then I asked the Brothers at the orphanage what they thought, and they sent me back emails with a resounding YES. When I sat down with Darren and Kahlil's parents, I didn't know what to expect. After giving as much information as I could, I told them to think about it for two weeks and get back me before the new school year. In both cases, they said they didn't need time. When I wrote an email out to my friends and family, and when the parents began fundraising, the task of raising $6,000 seemed enormous. Yet little by little, people responded with enthusiasm. Little by little, word spread and people (many who were once strangers) offered to help us get vaccines, Swahili lessons, funding, and supplies. We ended up with three diant duffel bags stuffed to the brim (in addition to our own bags), all the boy's expenses covered, and $750 to purchase supplies for the boys at the orphanage. It all kind of blows my mind, and is a testament to the idea that when things are right....they work, they happen...people come together.
TODAY, our departure day, has finally arrived after a year of planning, and anticipation. Every step of the way has been met with solid ground and for that reason, I have complete faith that the next 17 days are going to go smoothly.
I feel a healthy bunch of nerves, but my spirit is calm. The responsibility I feel is great-- I don't know exactly how to mentally prepare for it, except to take each moment as it comes. I foresee the most challenging part of this experience for me is going to be the next three days.
Although I've planned this trip as carefully as possible, I understand I am in control only to a certain extent. Darren and Kahlil are going to have their own experiences, and I need to stand back and let them unfold. For that reason, I know I need to continually remind myself not to say too much, and not to meddle. My hope is that Darren and Kahlil find patience and strength they don't know exist within themselves. At the same time, I also recognize that we may have a few "break downs" along that path, and I am prepared for that. From my own experience, falling apart is part of finding yourself. I remember the first time I traveled- I was "alone" and there were a few times I broke down completely. But when I came to the other side of that emotional state, the freedom and power I felt gave me a whole new perspective. New Eyes.
We should arrive in Nairobi around 10pm (3pm EST) on FRIDAY. We'll spend the night at Anna's house and head to Nyeri first thing in the morning.
"I See with New Eyes"....that was something that stuck in my mind when I lived in Ghana for five months in 2003. I had my headmaster there write it down in Twi. Me d'ani fofro ahu. I kept it in my wallet for five years. Then when I was is Kenya, I wrote it down again, this time in Swahili. Naona na Macho Mapya. Just like this project, that statement has evolved in meaning, and is bigger now than my own experience.
I'll admit I'm a bit tired.....the last few days my mind has been over-active and I've had trouble sleeping. But don't get me wrong.....I am beyond excited. Yesterday, while walking to buy a poncho, I realized I had a huge smile on my face. It's because tomorrow at 3pm, two worlds will meet face to face, hand to hand....and I simply cannot wait.
Let's go.
Love,
Hannah
ps. They probably won't be able to write until Monday, but the boys' blog addreses are
Keep an eye on us.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Voices from Brooklyn to Kenya
My last day at work was June 28th. I came home with more stuff then usual-- almost 200 t-shirts and all the supplies people had brought in for us. The t-shirts are part of what we called the Brother to Brother project. The idea being that each of the boys at St. Mary's will feel like they got something directly from a student at RELC. They are lightly worn and interesting and I'm hoping I can stuff them all into two duffle bags. Many of my colleagues also brought in everything from flashlights to rain ponchos to Ibuprofen. It means a lot and is a further testament to what can happen when good people come together.
I asked my 84 students to write letters to the boys at St. Mary's. I didn't give them any instructions except to say that the goal of the letters was to make the kids smile. They got to adorn their letters with stickers. I didn't actually get a chance to read the letters until recently. Sitting on the floor of my apartment, it made me stop and recognize that this project has the potential to mean something for more than just Darren and Kahlil, or for the boys at St. Mary's....or for you and I. I had to write down some of the excerpts which I want to share with you.
I am continually impressed by my students here in Brooklyn-- by their own strength and understanding of life albeit only being 12. These letters reaffirm my belief that all people, when given the tools and opportunity would choose to do good and do right for others. So the following are just excerpts from many letters. I told my students that in Kenya, I am known as Hannah not Ms. Kehn.
Ø I've seen your pictures and those pictures are beautiful.
Ø Be strong and believe in yourself, you can make a difference.
Ø I am writing a letter full of joy and smiles
Ø Hannah has told me and the other kids about you!
Ø From what I hear Hannah admires you and I guess she believes you shine like a star, and I think so too.
Ø Make that one special dream into a reality
I wrote you this poem-
To the chrysanthemum
Passionate chrysanthemum
Waving in the grass
The beauty
The smooth touch
Of a baby's skin
Love resembles you and your home
Oh chrysanthemum
Ø Ms. Kehn has told me a lot about you- it's like I know already.
Ø I think Africa is the best continent in the world. I think you are also brave to get up every morning. I am jealous. You are all smart and you are so lucky. You should be proud you have an education.
Ø Sincerely, Mohammed Awad….your very proud brother in Brooklyn
Ø I think your land is beautiful.
Ø You are a star….Africa all day.
Ø Writing this letter made me smile with every word I wrote down.
Ø I want to go- I want to go to Kenya and see you guys and I will bring my football down there and show you how to play.
Ø If you are sad just remember you are a star and extremely brave.
Ø Ms. Kehn asked us a questions today and it was "what makes you smile?" and I said, "The joy of other people." So to make me happy…you must be happy.
Ø I want to learn more of your beautiful personality. I feel better knowing that you are going to get this letter.
Ø I think you guys are brave. I wish to be like you one day.
I wrote you this poem-
Around the other place
The sun sets on the native land
I watch on the grassy hills, my love.
In the skies of my heart
The sun cries "My Love" as it
Starts to dissolve
Live your life to its fullest
Live, love, laugh your
Heart away.
Ø I want to travel the world one day and help people in need. I want to become a doctor and help sick people and sick kids.
Ø Nakupenda (I love you). You're the best and I look up to you. I will never forget about you. I have seen pictures of your village and it's very beautiful. You're beautiful in every type of way.
Ø When one of you reads this you will already know me because Hannah picked me and another boy to hang out with you all.
Ø It would be a pleasure to spend the summer in Africa with you guys….hopefully I will become a singer and perform in Africa.
Ø What's up man? You don't know me and I don't know you but we're cool. So how is it in the Mother Land? I would love to visit you because that's what I would do. Maybe one day you could teach me Swahili because it's one of the best languages ever!
Ø I love the way you guys are all one big family. I hope you keep this forever…I will always have you in my heart.
Ø Just remember that the race for success never has a finish line and there are many ways in which you can succeed.
Ø I'm not an orphan but I don't know my father and barely see my mother so I know how you feel.
Ø I hope you like my gift (he taped on a dollar to his letter) and I hope you have fun with my friends Darren and Kahlil
Ø You have a bright future ahead of you. You can do anything you put your mind to. You should always be kind to people…enjoy life because you deserve it
Ø Think as if you are dancing.
Ø Even though I'm living out here in Brooklyn, it's not always easy. I am 12 years old and I live in Bedstuy.
I asked my 84 students to write letters to the boys at St. Mary's. I didn't give them any instructions except to say that the goal of the letters was to make the kids smile. They got to adorn their letters with stickers. I didn't actually get a chance to read the letters until recently. Sitting on the floor of my apartment, it made me stop and recognize that this project has the potential to mean something for more than just Darren and Kahlil, or for the boys at St. Mary's....or for you and I. I had to write down some of the excerpts which I want to share with you.
I am continually impressed by my students here in Brooklyn-- by their own strength and understanding of life albeit only being 12. These letters reaffirm my belief that all people, when given the tools and opportunity would choose to do good and do right for others. So the following are just excerpts from many letters. I told my students that in Kenya, I am known as Hannah not Ms. Kehn.
Ø I've seen your pictures and those pictures are beautiful.
Ø Be strong and believe in yourself, you can make a difference.
Ø I am writing a letter full of joy and smiles
Ø Hannah has told me and the other kids about you!
Ø From what I hear Hannah admires you and I guess she believes you shine like a star, and I think so too.
Ø Make that one special dream into a reality
I wrote you this poem-
To the chrysanthemum
Passionate chrysanthemum
Waving in the grass
The beauty
The smooth touch
Of a baby's skin
Love resembles you and your home
Oh chrysanthemum
Ø Ms. Kehn has told me a lot about you- it's like I know already.
Ø I think Africa is the best continent in the world. I think you are also brave to get up every morning. I am jealous. You are all smart and you are so lucky. You should be proud you have an education.
Ø Sincerely, Mohammed Awad….your very proud brother in Brooklyn
Ø I think your land is beautiful.
Ø You are a star….Africa all day.
Ø Writing this letter made me smile with every word I wrote down.
Ø I want to go- I want to go to Kenya and see you guys and I will bring my football down there and show you how to play.
Ø If you are sad just remember you are a star and extremely brave.
Ø Ms. Kehn asked us a questions today and it was "what makes you smile?" and I said, "The joy of other people." So to make me happy…you must be happy.
Ø I want to learn more of your beautiful personality. I feel better knowing that you are going to get this letter.
Ø I think you guys are brave. I wish to be like you one day.
I wrote you this poem-
Around the other place
The sun sets on the native land
I watch on the grassy hills, my love.
In the skies of my heart
The sun cries "My Love" as it
Starts to dissolve
Live your life to its fullest
Live, love, laugh your
Heart away.
Ø I want to travel the world one day and help people in need. I want to become a doctor and help sick people and sick kids.
Ø Nakupenda (I love you). You're the best and I look up to you. I will never forget about you. I have seen pictures of your village and it's very beautiful. You're beautiful in every type of way.
Ø When one of you reads this you will already know me because Hannah picked me and another boy to hang out with you all.
Ø It would be a pleasure to spend the summer in Africa with you guys….hopefully I will become a singer and perform in Africa.
Ø What's up man? You don't know me and I don't know you but we're cool. So how is it in the Mother Land? I would love to visit you because that's what I would do. Maybe one day you could teach me Swahili because it's one of the best languages ever!
Ø I love the way you guys are all one big family. I hope you keep this forever…I will always have you in my heart.
Ø Just remember that the race for success never has a finish line and there are many ways in which you can succeed.
Ø I'm not an orphan but I don't know my father and barely see my mother so I know how you feel.
Ø I hope you like my gift (he taped on a dollar to his letter) and I hope you have fun with my friends Darren and Kahlil
Ø You have a bright future ahead of you. You can do anything you put your mind to. You should always be kind to people…enjoy life because you deserve it
Ø Think as if you are dancing.
Ø Even though I'm living out here in Brooklyn, it's not always easy. I am 12 years old and I live in Bedstuy.
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Introductions
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This is my second year teaching Darren and Kahlil. They are both 12 years old...born and raised in Brooklyn. They both are avid athletes. Darren plays on the basketball and flag football teams, while Kahlil loves baseball. At the Ronald Edmonds Learning Center (RELC), they belong to different "talents". Darren is part of the dance department and Kahlil participates in drama.
Many people have asked me why I chose these two students. First of all, we are going to an all male orphanage so I had to take boys. I couldn't take more than two students due to our home-stay accommodations. Deciding which two would best suit and benefit from this project was not easy. They are not the "easiest" students all the time, but that's part of why they're going. At the same time, they have worked hard to meet my expectations over the last two years in class, and shown me respect.
I chose Darren because of his energy, adaptability, and sensitivity. I see him interacting and playing with the boys at St. Mary's with ease. He will have the opportunity to channel his energy and silliness in positive, productive ways. His gregarious nature will help relax what could initially feel awkward. My hope is that this experience will help Darren mature and develop clear priorities.
I chose Kahlil primarily because I hope this experience will give him the inner strength and courage to become a positive leader. He possesses the intellect and sensibility, but right now stands at a crossroads. He must decide whether to be a leader or a follower- it's time to stand and deliver. I can't wait to see him surprise himself.
My hope is that both Darren and Kahlil discover strengths they never knew they had, and use those strengths to work through their fears and insecurities.
On the one hand, 12 years is young to undertake such a hands-on, rugged adventure like this. We will not ride on any tour buses, and we will not stay at any hotels. However, I think that this age marks a crucial time in a young person's life. It's right before high school, it's right in the midst of puberty, and it's hopefully before any major life decisions have been made. If this experience helps reinforce and instill positive priorities in these two young men, then half of the goal will be met.
The other half of the goal of this trip has to do with our time at St. Mary's Rescue Center. Before leaving in 2008, the popular statement made by the boys there was, "You are going to forget us". This is understandable. They see people come and go, and usually they never hear from them again. I've always been uncomfortable with the idea of traveling somewhere, getting to know people closely, and then leaving. My one regret in regards to my five months in Ghana, was that I did not stay in better touch with the people I loved there. I promised myself I wouldn't make the same mistake again.
Last year, at the suggestion of my school's administration, RELC raised over $1,000 for the boys at St. Mary's. All proceeds from RELC's Africa Day celebration went straight to them. I can't wait to walk through St. Mary's gate again with Darren and Kahlil. It's going to be surreal for everyone and truly a dream come true for me.
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