How could it be, as early as our fifth day, that the lines between strangers and friends are becoming so blurry? Many of the young adults in the village have let down their guard, and we our nervousness, so that I am as likely to be referred to by the village residents as Justin Bieber as by my real name (the welcomed nickname unfortunately has more to do with a similar haircut than the dashing good looks). Today we taught English to some of the construction workers with whom we've been working, teaching words like jump and socks as well as the more delicate subject of distinguishing man from woman. The group also entertained a meaningful conversation about selfishness and service, and what the true motivations for performing service are. Perspectives clashed but emerged more challenged and informed. After the discussion, separate dialogues continued about the topic as we grabbed our shovels and got back to work. Powerful.
We have adopted Rwanda's rapidly developing mentality. Each successive day we gradually believe more and more in the potential for change for ourselves, for the orphans, and for Rwanda. Upon returning to the U.S., we look forward to the opportunity to raise awareness and ignite change in the mindset of students about the positive effect that each can have in as little as twelve days, let alone their entire lives.
As dirty clothes mount and sunburns turn a sinister maroon, we have never been more comfortable nor more hungry for more interaction with the orphans, teachers, house mothers, laborers, and residents of the surrounding village than we are now on this star-enblazened night.
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