Ghana Team Journal

Quote of the day:

In the course of history, there comes a time when humanity is called to shift to a new level of consciousness, to reach a higher moral ground. A time when we have to shed our fear and give hope to each other. That time is now.

- Wangari Maathai

Journal by: Grace Glick

Once again, fortified by a delicious breakfast from Bless, we strolled off to work. This leisurely pace seems to be the norm here for others as well. It’s crazy to rush about in this sizzling African heat!

As we near the school, children rush out to meet us- jostling to carry our bags and hold our hands. This welcome never fails to lift my spirits .

Upon reaching the primary, we part ways- Sarah to teach at JHS, Mary, Margaret and Tracee to Peace Perfect, Laurie and I make our way to the primary to instruct our respective classes and the construction crew-Will, Jeff, Kay, Steve and George head to the library site.

The library is coming along nicely. It is incredible labor to work in such hot conditions! I am sure the community really appreciates the helping hands. As yesterday, the children hauled water for the cement mixing. Twice today, in fact! Down to the youngest, the community can really feel they have contributed to this new library.

At noon, we strolled back to the St. James accompanied by our gaggle of eager porters.

Lunch was tasty groundnut soup and rice balls. Over meal time, we had a respectful but lively discussion about the ethics of killing other animals. Where does one draw the line? Is this solely a matter of personal beliefs or is there a cultural influence? Food for thought.

After the break, we strolled our way to the Senchi library. En route, we spied 3 nearly newborn kids napping. For a week and a half now we have tried and tried in vain to get close enough to touch one of the wandering goats. Jackpot, I thought, when we spotted these babes. But, no! As I snuck close, the wary kids bolted. It may be time to give up this quest.

A small group of children met us at the library and over the hour more trickled in so we were all well occupied with reading and listening.

We briskly walked home to catch the van ferrying us to the Volta Hotel. Once again, we basked in the cooler air and took in the lovely view from the hotel balcony. Cold drinks and yummy ice cream chilled us from the inside out. Contented smiles all around.