Ghana Team Journal

Julie’s thought for the day:

“Each of us has been put on earth with the ability to do something well. We cheat ourselves and the world if we don’t use that ability as best we can.”

Gracie Allen, 1895-1964, American Comedian and Actress

Journal by: Julie

Cailin and I are sleeping like babies. The local food is tasty and with the humidity, we are tired earlier at night.

Sandy took us on a tour of the clinic on our way to the library. It is actually very nice. Sandy pointed out the shoemaker, the dressmaker and the mosque. She is pretty knowledgeable on all things local.

The computer lab started out a little slow-as did the library. Samuel needed to pick up the forms for scholarships for the kids and was gone for almost 2 hours. The children in the computer lab, all 12-16 years old, are new to computers and eager to learn. We have asked them to write an essay titled “Myself”. They start with their name and age, usually say where they go to school, describe themselves and detail their family members. Many sign off with gratitude for us being there. Most have big dreams for their future-most boys, that is. The girls don’t usually express a future dream. They also talk about sports they play and their favorite foods. We are learning a lot about them. Funny, though, most think they are either 2’, 4’ or 8’ tall.

The library was filled with very young children. Parents just drop them off. At times we kept their attention reading, but they were also energetic. The little ones love Cailin. The older ones in the computer lab are still curious about her and are aware of her knowledge-especially on the computer. They also ask Cailin a lot about her home and home life. It is certainly different than theirs.

We picked Sandy up at the clinic. They are so busy, she could work all day. The walk home was the first in beautiful sunshine, but very hot. I swear we saw Cailin’s rescued lizard!!

Lunch was great-yeah for salad, watermelon and French fries. A hard rain came at the end of lunch. Susan and Liz’s freshly hung laundry got soaked.

We took a taxi back to the library for afternoon reading. Sandy led the group in song while we waited for Samuel. Many children joined us. They love to read and be read to. It rained again while we were at the library.

After we returned to the guesthouse, Liz and I took a walk. When we returned, we shared a beer and pictures of our families. Vivian joined us just before dinner. After dinner we had an in depth discussion of the program. We shared our observations and suggestions. We are all thrilled to be here, love our Ghanaian hosts and the people and want to know what more we can do to make an impact. We are anxious to meet Kathleen.