Yesterday... wow. Yesterday was one of the most exhausting days I have experienced in the most positive of ways! The day began with meetings at the SHED compound with Daniel, one of the translators. Mike, Jeanie (who now goes by Jean because "Genies" are very evil here) and I had to discuss the signage survey. What's wonderful is that more than just business we had a beautiful conversation about his family, particularly his oldest daughter, and also about how he came to be so good at English. Where I get off assuming some sort of difference in the family dynamic and how proud a father could be of this children I don't know. It just struck me, being halfway around the world from my own parents, knowing that somewhere, they might be saying the same about me... you know... it makes you feel loved. Daniel made me miss my parents. Love those folks.
One part of the day that was really nerdy on my part was cataloging examples of Tanzanian construction techniques. I have really enjoyed documenting and diagramming the techniques. It falls in line with my thesis for coming on the trip, unlearning, relearning, figuring out a way to live off the land. I'm excited for future research knowing that it entertains me so much now.
The pique of the day was finally being able to go to the Roche Health Center. I have been looking forward to seeing this building for not only the past 10 weeks, but since the prospect of joining this brigade entered my head. I can only imagine the excitement that Michael Z and Tom Bible experienced, having so much to do with the construction and design of the clinic.
Finally, to be brief so I am not taking up so much time writing this morning, Nate, Natasha, Regina, Matt, and I all walked [tried to walk] to Lake Victoria yesterday. We didn't make it all the way, but we were far from disappointed. We met this incredible young man, name of Alex among many others. We were to refer to him as Alex, but if we came to his house we were supposed to call him something else, they know by a different name at school, and his father, only his father, has permission to you another name. He wants to be a teacher or a driver. In a sad sort of way he told us he might not be able to follow his dreams exactly as planned because of the cost of education. I'm going to pray for this boy... he his a very special person. So is everyone, I suppose, but he has a certain spark.
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