Be Here Now.

October 31st marks one year in Africa. One year. I tried to think of something deep and meaningful to write. Something that illuminates the perspective I have attained; something to inspire America to go out and join the Peace Corps. However, all I can say is I am equally happy it has been a year as I am sad I only have a year remaining. So, I move forward knowing I am in the midst of a grand experience that will come to and end before I know it, which is even more of a reason for me to live in the present.

Random observations:

I saw a small girl wearing a bra as her top. The bra was countless sizes too big and was actually draped off one shoulder. Fascinating fashion choice.

I have been riding bikes more than running in recent weeks because my foot is sending me messages that tell me to stop pounding her on the ground repeatedly. It’s an understandable request and I am forced to listen because the pain is excruciating.

A young lady was hoisting a large bag of maize on her head and Ashley, my fellow volunteer in Lusese, was standing next to me admiring the tone and definition of the girl’s arms. In that instant Ashley decided, “I need to start carrying more things on my head.”

World Teacher Day
The month of October opened with a much-appreciated day off thanks to the celebration of World Teacher Day. I participated in a march to the town hall in Katima where there were speakers and cultural dancing and a live band. It was the ultimate party. My principal was instrumental in organizing this event. I got to accompany him earlier in the week to the flood plains to buy cattle to feed to all the teachers. The cow was slaughtered not far from my home. I watched learners cut and clean the cow then chuck it in to the back of a bakkie. This did not make me want to stop eating dead cow. Just made me glad I was not a cow, or at least not this particular cow. Apologies to my vegetarian friends.

Traditional Dance Lesson
Each Wednesday during afternoon studies the grade eight participates in a class taught by local elders. It’s a traditional dance class. The women perform dances passed through generations. Many of my coworkers here are not familiar with these dances, but recognize the need to keep their traditional culture alive. I witnessed this class and was touched by the energy and rich history that was palpable as the women shared their knowledge with the younger generation. And, of course, they included me at the end of the session. I attempted to perform a dance. It was embarrassing. However, we all know that a surefire way to completely experience another culture is to never be afraid to act like a fool. And that is precisely what I did.

Arbor Day
Lusese Combined School got numerous trees to plant for Arbor Day free of charge from the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry. I happen to be standing under a tree on this day when a tremendous spider crawled up my leg and rested on my skirt until I was informed of its presence. My reaction? I batted it off like it was a fly. Quite a departure from how I might have reacted to a spider that size 12 months ago. I am very proud of my behavior. However, the lesson I learned this Arbor Day was to never stand under that dreadful spider tree ever again.

World Food Day
Lusese Combined School, which is where I teach, was picked to host the Region’s celebration of World Food Day. Oddly enough, I had little to eat or drink on this day. I did, however, organize a play with some learners about the right and wrong ways to burn a field. A mundane topic for sure, but crucial for this area and the kids embraced it and made it quite humorous and informative. They performed in English and Silozi for an esteemed crowed including the Governor of the Caprivi Region, a local tribal king and NBC (Namibian television). There were also many cultural dance groups performing. I have started to get a real taste of the traditional culture here. The one that existed before Christianity became the mainstay in Namibia, the one that was born here and is the true essence of Caprivian culture to me. It is something you must experience. Speaking of unique experiences, I did have to get down on my knees when the King arrived and departed the celebration. Interesting.