Piling up outside the massive building in a zig-zag rope line; in this moment I feel like I am waiting to get on an exciting roller coaster, or in line at the movies to see the next big screen hit. Only this time, the main attraction is Jesus. The doors open, and like a crowd rushing the doors at a Christmas bargain sale, we flow into the church and rush to get our seats.
Walking into the church you almost feel as though you are at a concert, a free concert… well, minus the tithe. haha A huge choir of 60+ bright eyed, smiling faces, in decorative vibrant traditional African costume, swaying back and fourth, singing in complete unison and harmony. The energy in the room was at a level I had never experienced in life thus far. People standing and clapping, some dancing, hands raised to the roof, all singing along to the words, projected on a screen that would put the Jumbo-tron to shame back home. Walls colourfully decorated and painted with African designs, fancy, flashing lights following along to the music. This was something I had never seen. Church back home is so dry and drab; a congregation of grey heads making their weekly outing to the local church. KPC was alive and thriving, a young congregation livened in the spirit, a sense of community, of acceptance and welcoming. It was beautiful. Hands raised to the roof, reaching out for the divine spirit and guidance, people breaking into groups of three to pray for one another, it was all a place of worship I could have never envisioned.
Singing high energy songs one after the other for a half hour, I thought to myself “wow, church isn’t so bad after all”.. The songs ended, and the lights turned low, the big screen flashed KPCNN (Kampala Pentecostal Church News Network).. Modern music pumping over the loud speakers, young hip youth discussing the upcoming events (dance competitions, guest speakers coming this month, events to get involved in, etc). It was creative, engaging, and far more up to date of the times and technology then I have seen in North America. I thought to myself “where am I?? Is this Uganda?” I felt like I was in a Christian Twilight Zone.
The news channel ended, and with a flash came on the pastor decked out in jeans, a white shirt, a rainbow belt and red converse. He was lively; an agile 56 year old, preaching with passion, running and jumping on the stage, arms flailing to and fro. It was as if this man was Robin Williams younger brother, bouncing around the stage like Bugs Bunny on speed. He brought positive messages, in realistic approaches and was hopeful of change and gave examples of possible actions to take. The sermon kept my attention.
Does this mean I am going to become Christian? No.. What it does do though is provide an open, engaging atmosphere that one can actually go and listen to Christian teachings without being turned off. For this I am thankful, and ever so glad to have found Kampala Pentecostal Church. I will return in coming weeks, if not just for the free concert ;)
11/24/08
MTN Marathon
A sea of yellow MTN shirts and hats, moving to the unison beat of treading feet on pot-hole infested roads. We looked like a river of banana peels, making our way through the city like a flash flood; receiving cheers and clapping from the people along the river banks. Running together like a herd of antelope, each person working tirelessly to keep up with the next; having no choice but to keep moving, no chance of even considering giving up. If you stop in this mass flow of people, it’s as if you become like cholesterol in an artery; frustrating the constant flow of the system, people dodging around you, elbows hitting your side, legs becoming cluttered. Best bet is to stick to the edges of the crowd, moving up along the sidelines, able to escape the messiness of 6,000+ people trotting along to the same beat.
The energy was refreshing, was unifying, a feeling of connectivity and oneness in purpose; to accomplish the race, to cross the finish line and know in your heart that you had reached the goal that so many others were also striving towards. It was nice to feel everyone on the same page in that moment. Jobs were left behind, social classes and structure were broken down, all sense of hierarchy and division that exists in our daily lives was left behind at the starting line. We were one; we existed in a realm where we sought to motivate each other to continue to push through. Running past people walking, reaching out to grab their hand, saying “my sister/my brother, we continue”, only to see a reinvigorating sense of drive in their energy, instantly continuing to get back to running, edging our way just a little bit closer to the finish line.
I can remember running up a rather long portion of the marathon on a hill, reaching the top, and feeling extremely faint, woozy and at the point of collapsing. I stumbled to a walking pace, swaggering left and right as I tried to maintain balance. I thought I was going to wake up in an ambulance. I continued to be in that moment, breathing into the state of existence I had driven my body to be in, when just then, a man grabbed my arm and said “Let us run together. Come Mzungu, we must finish”. Instantly I was refreshed. It was if he had touched me with a healing energy, a reminder of what I had come to do, to accomplish my goal, to finish what I had started.
We all continued to run, women cheering out their traditional chants, “ai yai yai yai yai” in a high pitched tone, water splashing everywhere as unfinished bottles were thrown in the air, wet sponges ubiquitously cluttering the road.
I saw the last 200 meters approaching as I breached around the final bend of the course. Instantly I gained a fresh, full tank of energy. I was off like roadrunner, escaping Wiley coyote; imagining a trail of dust being left in my tracks. Running through 50 meters of onlookers sprawled behind barrier gates, I felt both awkward and accomplished in that moment. People clapping and cheering, screaming “welcome back”, a phrase many Ugandans love to use in daily conversation. I zoomed across the finish line, looking up to catch a glimpse of my time; 59.30.
I walked into the rest area, downed 2 bottles of water, stretched my aching muscles and passed out for a half hour in a mountain of empty water bottle boxes. Continued over to the supermarket, and sat in happiness, with a half liter of yoghurt, a packet of glucose cookies and a bushel of bananas. I ate in glee and remembered the joy of the open road, the feeling of being one with all, the joy of accomplishing something I did not think I would finish. In that instant I forgot all else, and sat in contempt, fully in the moment, existing in the now, just being……. And it was beautiful!!!
I now understand my Aunt Mary's constant dedication to training and her unending thirst to run marathons. Thanks for the inspiration AM!!!
11/19/08
The Rush of The Rapids
I went up to Bujugali Falls and Jinja
(about 2 hours east of Kampala) to stay at a place called "Nile River
Explorers" to go rafting down the Nile river. What an intense
experience. It was a non stop rush. We took a sardine can of a bus
out to Jinja, and then reached the junction to get up to the hostel.
We were told that it was only .75km to the camp, so matt and I decided
to walk it, while the others took motorcycles. I wish we had followed
their lead. Matt and I walked and eventually reached a sign that said
4km to the camp. So Matt and I decided to finally take a Boda, as
storm clouds were riding in quickly. We got on a boda and within 20
seconds we were in the middle of torrential, monsoon like rain. I had
never seen rain this heavy. I couldnt even keep my eyes open on the
motorcycle. We were sliding all over the road, nearly hitting a man on
a bicycle, which caused us to fishtail, nearly losing balance. We
finally got control back, and headed down the final stretch to the
hostel. Again he started sliding, fishtailing left, then right, and
finally skidding onto the side of the road and into a ditch. Matt and
I flew off the side and into the ditch. Luckly there was really long
grass, no rocks, and a big puddle to land into to break our fall. No
one was hurt, but it was once again a crazy accident. I swore off
Bodas after my first accident, but there was literally no other option
out there in the middle of no where. We also ended up hitting a goat
on another boda the following day. Crazy drivers, crazy obstacles. It
always makes for an interesting experience. Unless it is the only
option, I don't ride them anymore.
We reached the hostel to a jam packed outdoor bar of about 100 white people, all laughing and clapping as matt and I arrived like wet dogs, shivering in the rain.
Wet shoes were the one thing I did not want this weekend (remembering
how miserable they had made me the previous weekend in Murchison
falls... Luckily it was sunny on saturday and I could dry them in the sun.)
I went to bed early that night, wanting to escape the madness of rowdy
mzungus. They seemed like a whole other breed of people. People seemed so care free, also lacking cultural appropriateness (throwing bottles on the floor, laughing as the local staff sweptit up). Even the music selection of purely alternative music, some heavy metal, and absolutely nothing that resembled anything East African (which I have come absolutely love). It did not feel like I was in Uganda.
Before passing out, they showed a video compilation of that days rafting trip. My stomach was in my throat. Rafts being flipped in the rapids, people hurled
downstream, lost in the waves, , only to pop up on screen 10-15
seconds later. People whipped over waterfalls, boats vertically
flipping. I was terrified. I went to bed that night rolling in my
sleep, anticipating the intense experience to come the following day.
We woke up 7 to meet the bus and the other rafters and begin our
journey. We headed to another hostel for a nice buffet breakfast and
then down to the water to get in the boats. Our raft guide was
hilarious, spewing out a routine of jokes I imagine he says on every
trip. Needless to say he made the experience a lot more comfortable
and fun... We started out with training in how to reflip the boat, and
how to pull ourselves and others in, how to hold the paddle, how to
sit in the water if you fall out, call signs to be saved, how to call
for a kayaker to help you, etc. Soon after we were in our first rapid.
One of the girls on our raft flew out and was swept down. She was
extremely shook up. It only created a more extreme energy in the boat.
We were all pumped after the first waterfall and thirsty for more (at
this point I was not physically thirstly as I had swallowed quite a
lot of water already. haha) This was the first of 12 rapids. Over the
entire day our raft flipped twice (pretty intense flips). The first
time we went down a rapid called chop suey (all other rafts opted out
of taking this rapid.. Our guide wanted to show us the best time
possible, so he daringly took us down). We went off a 6 foot waterfall
into a huge pit that had an 8 foot wave (this is not an uncle
bob/jessica exageration. It literally was 8 feet). I was in the front
of the boat, and gladly took the mammoth wave in my face. Before I
knew it I was flipping through the air, and trapped under the boat. I
quickly reached for the ropes on the side of the raft, pulled myself
out of the rapid, and just as I surfaced to get a quick breath of air,
I was shot under the water again as we rolled over waterfalls, over
bolders, rushing downstream at full speed. Our guide mounted the boat,
and flipped it over and we all quickly pulled ourselves into the boat
(with the guide yelling, get back in the boat quickly, this area has
crocodiles.. Still unsure whether he was messing with us, or serious).
My heart has never beaten so fast, I have never felt so much
adrenaline, and never felt so alive. The second flip was not as
extreme, mainly because I didnt wait to flip this time, i actually
jumped out of the boat into the rapids and went for the ride of my
life. Overall the whole rafting experience was well worth it, and if i
decide to go within the next 3 months, I get to go at half price.
The river rafting company supports an organization called Soft Power
Education. They do a lot to build and refurbish schools, dig and
install pit latrines and water and sanitation systems, and other
programming for orphans,etc. They have a slew of volunteers coming and
going, and I was thus thinking that when my contract ends on Januarey
28 with UCA, I have 3 weeks before I fly home to Canada, so I will
travel out to stay in the region and volunteer with the organization.
They are in need of small grant proposals and anyone to help out with
the manual labour and gritty work of installation, as well as bringing
new ideas to the table. I talked with the program officer and she is
going to reserve me a spot for early february. While my work
experience at UCA has not been the best it could have been so far, I
think finishing up what I can accomplish here and then doing something
much more hands on, will be a good wrap up to my trip. super excited
for this. I think the website is www.softpowereducation.com.
After another early night on saturday (mainly caused by the extreme
sulphur burps and toots I was having. I get short spouts of Jiardia
that seem to clear up on their own), I watched the full moon and stars
for a bit, and then passed out. Woke up late on Sunday and walked down
to the falls, and then headed into Jinja to a beautiful restaurant on
the river. Returned to the hostel soon after to play some pool and
frisbee, and then headed home on the shuttle back to Kampala. Feeling
a little tired and worn down today from the paddling, but overall it
was an incredible trip, and I will for sure be returning their in feb
to raft again and volunteer
I am running a 10km marathon this upcoming sunday with MTN (giant
cellphone provider here). We'll see if I can make it through with the
heat and pollution.
Lots of Love!
(about 2 hours east of Kampala) to stay at a place called "Nile River
Explorers" to go rafting down the Nile river. What an intense
experience. It was a non stop rush. We took a sardine can of a bus
out to Jinja, and then reached the junction to get up to the hostel.
We were told that it was only .75km to the camp, so matt and I decided
to walk it, while the others took motorcycles. I wish we had followed
their lead. Matt and I walked and eventually reached a sign that said
4km to the camp. So Matt and I decided to finally take a Boda, as
storm clouds were riding in quickly. We got on a boda and within 20
seconds we were in the middle of torrential, monsoon like rain. I had
never seen rain this heavy. I couldnt even keep my eyes open on the
motorcycle. We were sliding all over the road, nearly hitting a man on
a bicycle, which caused us to fishtail, nearly losing balance. We
finally got control back, and headed down the final stretch to the
hostel. Again he started sliding, fishtailing left, then right, and
finally skidding onto the side of the road and into a ditch. Matt and
I flew off the side and into the ditch. Luckly there was really long
grass, no rocks, and a big puddle to land into to break our fall. No
one was hurt, but it was once again a crazy accident. I swore off
Bodas after my first accident, but there was literally no other option
out there in the middle of no where. We also ended up hitting a goat
on another boda the following day. Crazy drivers, crazy obstacles. It
always makes for an interesting experience. Unless it is the only
option, I don't ride them anymore.
We reached the hostel to a jam packed outdoor bar of about 100 white people, all laughing and clapping as matt and I arrived like wet dogs, shivering in the rain.
Wet shoes were the one thing I did not want this weekend (remembering
how miserable they had made me the previous weekend in Murchison
falls... Luckily it was sunny on saturday and I could dry them in the sun.)
I went to bed early that night, wanting to escape the madness of rowdy
mzungus. They seemed like a whole other breed of people. People seemed so care free, also lacking cultural appropriateness (throwing bottles on the floor, laughing as the local staff sweptit up). Even the music selection of purely alternative music, some heavy metal, and absolutely nothing that resembled anything East African (which I have come absolutely love). It did not feel like I was in Uganda.
Before passing out, they showed a video compilation of that days rafting trip. My stomach was in my throat. Rafts being flipped in the rapids, people hurled
downstream, lost in the waves, , only to pop up on screen 10-15
seconds later. People whipped over waterfalls, boats vertically
flipping. I was terrified. I went to bed that night rolling in my
sleep, anticipating the intense experience to come the following day.
We woke up 7 to meet the bus and the other rafters and begin our
journey. We headed to another hostel for a nice buffet breakfast and
then down to the water to get in the boats. Our raft guide was
hilarious, spewing out a routine of jokes I imagine he says on every
trip. Needless to say he made the experience a lot more comfortable
and fun... We started out with training in how to reflip the boat, and
how to pull ourselves and others in, how to hold the paddle, how to
sit in the water if you fall out, call signs to be saved, how to call
for a kayaker to help you, etc. Soon after we were in our first rapid.
One of the girls on our raft flew out and was swept down. She was
extremely shook up. It only created a more extreme energy in the boat.
We were all pumped after the first waterfall and thirsty for more (at
this point I was not physically thirstly as I had swallowed quite a
lot of water already. haha) This was the first of 12 rapids. Over the
entire day our raft flipped twice (pretty intense flips). The first
time we went down a rapid called chop suey (all other rafts opted out
of taking this rapid.. Our guide wanted to show us the best time
possible, so he daringly took us down). We went off a 6 foot waterfall
into a huge pit that had an 8 foot wave (this is not an uncle
bob/jessica exageration. It literally was 8 feet). I was in the front
of the boat, and gladly took the mammoth wave in my face. Before I
knew it I was flipping through the air, and trapped under the boat. I
quickly reached for the ropes on the side of the raft, pulled myself
out of the rapid, and just as I surfaced to get a quick breath of air,
I was shot under the water again as we rolled over waterfalls, over
bolders, rushing downstream at full speed. Our guide mounted the boat,
and flipped it over and we all quickly pulled ourselves into the boat
(with the guide yelling, get back in the boat quickly, this area has
crocodiles.. Still unsure whether he was messing with us, or serious).
My heart has never beaten so fast, I have never felt so much
adrenaline, and never felt so alive. The second flip was not as
extreme, mainly because I didnt wait to flip this time, i actually
jumped out of the boat into the rapids and went for the ride of my
life. Overall the whole rafting experience was well worth it, and if i
decide to go within the next 3 months, I get to go at half price.
The river rafting company supports an organization called Soft Power
Education. They do a lot to build and refurbish schools, dig and
install pit latrines and water and sanitation systems, and other
programming for orphans,etc. They have a slew of volunteers coming and
going, and I was thus thinking that when my contract ends on Januarey
28 with UCA, I have 3 weeks before I fly home to Canada, so I will
travel out to stay in the region and volunteer with the organization.
They are in need of small grant proposals and anyone to help out with
the manual labour and gritty work of installation, as well as bringing
new ideas to the table. I talked with the program officer and she is
going to reserve me a spot for early february. While my work
experience at UCA has not been the best it could have been so far, I
think finishing up what I can accomplish here and then doing something
much more hands on, will be a good wrap up to my trip. super excited
for this. I think the website is www.softpowereducation.com.
After another early night on saturday (mainly caused by the extreme
sulphur burps and toots I was having. I get short spouts of Jiardia
that seem to clear up on their own), I watched the full moon and stars
for a bit, and then passed out. Woke up late on Sunday and walked down
to the falls, and then headed into Jinja to a beautiful restaurant on
the river. Returned to the hostel soon after to play some pool and
frisbee, and then headed home on the shuttle back to Kampala. Feeling
a little tired and worn down today from the paddling, but overall it
was an incredible trip, and I will for sure be returning their in feb
to raft again and volunteer
I am running a 10km marathon this upcoming sunday with MTN (giant
cellphone provider here). We'll see if I can make it through with the
heat and pollution.
Lots of Love!
11/10/08
Muggy Murchison Safari Madness!
Recently decided to take a Safari vacation up to Murchison Falls game reserve. Was looking for affordable tour companies and heard from many that Red Chili was one of the greatest tour companies and offered the cheapest camping accommodations in the park. Me, I love spending as little money as possible, so I jumped right on it.
To be honest, I was a little weary about it at first. Leaving the base camp in Kampala on a small safari bus with 7 other Mzungus felt a bit strange. Living here is a much different experience then doing the short term tourist type deals that a lot of travelers do, so it was a bit of an awkward feeling at first taking on a tourist role. It can feel very superficial at times, almost as if you are really not getting a cultural glimpse of where you are headed but more of a fabricated, surface level glimpse of an experience that has been built to form to the needs and fancies of the tourist market. Anyways, I consciously tried to overcome these feelings, but they remained with me the entire trip, a trip that almost didn’t feel real. It felt, as I said above, extremely fabricated and predetermined. Beside these feelings, I still had an incredible time.
It is currently the short rainy season in the north western region of Uganda. This year has been extremely strange, many people stating that it has been the rainiest short rainy season they have ever experienced; a key indicator that climate change is in fact very real. The first night we were there we walked down to the Nile river and took in the scenery, looking like a patient bird watcher for the glimpse of a bathing Hippo, or possibly a bush Elephant grazing on some vegetation. At this point the animals seemed to be in hiding. We did find a giant metal globe, with hugely misrepresented countries painted on them. North Korea seemed to be about the size of Sudan. Haha maybe it was painted by Kim Gung-Il? We headed back to the camp with haste as the torrential rains were clouding the sky in dark hues of grey; winds blowing in a well needed coolness to the evening.
The food at Red Chili was incredible. Pumpkin curries, pork sausage pastas, chocolate custard cakes, mmm, lovely food. The best part is that there are no fences around the camp, so while you are eating your dinner, you get to enjoy the lovely company of scavenging warthogs. Pumba from the Lion King was there in numbers. Sadly enough they weren’t singing Hakuna Matata and scavenging for grubs. They were turning over garbage cans, leaving terd-mines that always became a lovely treat trying to avoid while walking aimlessly to the bathrooms at 4 in the morning in the pitch black. Hippos also come to the camps to graze on the grass at night. Unfortunately I didn’t get to stumble upon one while there.
The first night, I had unpacked my bag and laid out my clothes so that I could quickly leave the tent in the morning to shower and not wake up my tent mate. Really pays off to be considerate these days!! Haha the rains flooded our tent that night, and literally everything I brought was drenched like a sad little wet dog. Socks, Underwear, shirts, jeans, shorts, shoes, all saturated, and because it was raining all weekend, nothing dried out. Nothing dampens the soul like the lovely feel of wet socks on your feet. Haha
We woke up at 5:30 that morning to make it out for our 6:30 game drive. Drove down to the river by the Kim Gung-Il globe, and waited for the ferry to carry all the trucks across to the game park. There was this one Mzungu lady in an SUV behind us who was trucking around 8 teenagers to go on the game drive in her SUV. The look on this ladies face was if she had woken up with warthog dung in her mouth. She was sour, cold and gave off the worst energy imaginable. Beginning our drive through the park, she drove behind us, and became the laugh of our morning seeing just how contorted (almost as if she was constipated) her face would become and how frustrated she was at our van getting stuck on wet hills, fishtailing and spinning in the mud. It was a hoot. Our van had a detachable roof, so we were able to fully stand up and take in the fresh air and smell of Elephant dung as we wizzed through the park, going up and down hills, overlooking the beautiful Ugandan Plane, giraffes in the distance grazing on Accacia trees, Antelopes and Jackson Heartabeasts running at the sound of our van approaching, only to leave and sight of their behinds trotting away. Even the sight of their behinds was nicer then the look the lady in the SUV behind was giving us. She was almost as interesting to watch as the animals we sought to see. I even took pictures of her from the top of our van. haha
Due to the rain a lot of the animals were hiding, so we weren’t able to see the full extent of the wildlife present there, but we still did see some amazing animals. The Giraffes were extremely majestic and almost mythical, with such a noble presence and strength. Pulling up to take a look, they would stare back in a similar adoration that I was feeling for them. Eyes connecting, we looked deeply into each other and there was a connection I had never quite felt with an animal before. An understanding of some sort of a recognition that we felt welcome and warm in each others company. It was heartwarming and seemed to keep me warm in my tired, damp state. The Elephants also had quite a presence. The game drive was about 4 hours, with a lot of attention placed on searching to see Lions and Leopards. Unfortunately none were around to see.
Upon arriving back at the Ferry (which was out of commission) we spent some time waiting on the river bank (in hopes it would get fixed). There were 2 Baboons there that would jump into the windows of the vans looking for scraps of food to eat. I sat down on the ground by one of them (3-4 feet away) and again just sat in her presence and stared deeply into here eyes and felt that same connection again. They were so human like, eyes looking around taking in the surrounding environment and assessing the situation. It was such a strange feeling to be that close to a wild animal, yet feel so comfortable and at home with them. I loved it. Soon after the male baboon jumped onto the lip of a garbage can to find some scraps and like a clumsy ass, fell right off onto his back. Haha seems like something my tall clumsy self would do if I was an animal. He was extremely intelligent, grabbing a rubbished chip bag, and tactfully opening it with his hands and licking the crumbs out. Again so human like. I could see my Uncle John doing something like that if he was an animal. Hahaha The man loves leftovers and food scraps.. Love ya UJ!
After the game drive we returned to the camp for lunch. Everyone in the camp seemed to eat and then pass out in their chair. The rains came, and came with strength. Even the little Warthogs retreated to the undergrowth of the bush to hide from its strength. We roughed the rains and went back down to the river and boarded an 18 passenger metal boat. Something didn’t click being in a fully metal boat, in the middle of a thunderstorm and torrential rain on the river. I love how anything goes in Africa!! Haha We got to see some lovely lazy hippos, yawning with their giant mouths, dipping under the water upon our intrusion into their habitat, only to pop their cute little heads up again twitching their ears as if to say hello. Giant crocs speckled the banks at certain points, again swiftly plunging into the water at the sight of our metal monster of a boat. The sides of the boat really didn’t keep the rains out, so I became soaked, with soggy shoes and socks (enough to make even the Dalai Lama miserable. Haha) It’s fine being drenched, but as soon as your feet become wet, something changes. It’s like the feeling when a baby keeps crying in church and the parents aren’t considerate enough to take the baby for a walk. So s/he just keeps crying and crying, and the whole parish gets this subsurface agitated feeling like “SOMEONE GIVE THAT BABY A NIPPLE”. Yeah the nipple for me would have been a nice hot shower and some dry clothes, but neither were available this weekend, so I like the baby, was crying inside. Haha
The boat ride was fun, although I found myself feeling rather lonely, detached from the experience I was in, finding myself thinking about Lynne and family, wishing I could be sharing the experience with those I loved most. Could have been this, or the 10 or so rowdy American kayakers that were on our boat, drinking lots of beers, peeing off the side of the boat. While the ride to the falls wasn’t the greatest for me, what paid off was the amazing view of Murchison falls. I have never seen such a powerful river with so much strength. This huge volume of water narrows in from a couple hundred meters, down to about 6 meters, gushing through the cracks in the rock, spewing out at intense pressure. It was beautiful.
After seeing the falls, all I was interested in was returning to the camp for a cup of tea. The boat driver for some reason put the boat on turtle pace, and it took ages to get back to the dock. Not wanting to take part in the river pee festival that the Americans proudly displayed, haha I waited with my legs clinched together to get back to shore. We finally reached back and like a tapped fire hydrant on the streets of Brooklyn in the 50’s, I blasted the side of a tree. I am pretty sure the pressure could have taken the paint off of a car. Hahaha Would have loved to be able to write my name in the snow back home. Probably could have written a chapter of a novel with how full my tank was. We went back to the camp and sat by the bar in my drenched clothes. It was Jeremy’s 25th birthday (a friend of Emily; a girl I went to high school with in India who happens to be working here). We celebrated his birthday and everyone rang in the night with drinks. Was a fun night but being drenched and cold, I soon retreated to my tent to warm up under the blanket and soon passed out.
The joke of the night that has stuck with me, was told by one of my British friend’s, Justine. She comes off as this very proper English girl, so this joke came with howls and howls of laughter, coming from her of all people. “Why are there so many Pedophiles in the World?—Sexy Kids!” She followed up saying this by coyfully covering her mouth and raising her eyebrows. Haha was a hilarious moment.
Our last day was probably the most spectacular for me. We woke up early, packed our stuff, had a nice bagged breakfast and headed off to Murchison falls in our van to go for a hike. The hike was easy enough for a toddler to do (I was looking for something a little more challenging), but the views of the falls from atop the canyon ridges were beautiful. We then hiked down to the falls where I really got to see the power of the rapids and the water. Got absolutely soaked again from the mist, but luckily it was hot enough to dry before getting back in the van. I sat on a protruding rock that jetted into the river, and watched in adoration of the rapids, and the extreme power and rawness of nature. It was beautifully captivating and regrounded and recharged my energy. We were quickly rushed through the experience and asked to get back to the vans (the staff seemed to do a lot of that this trip). I could have stayed there for days and just sat and watched the water. It felt like home being there.
I passed out for the majority of the ride home, except for lunch, and of course when arriving at the roasted cassava stand (mmm can never get enough roasted cassava.. Love the stuff). Arrived home to some lovely roommates, exchanging stories of our trips and our weekends and passed out early.
I might be off to Bujugali Falls next weekend in Jinja to do some white water rafting, before the world bank dams up the Nile in December and ends the rapids there (hopefully it does more good then harm to Uganda).
Will write again soon hopefully.
Sorry for the gap in writing.
love you all
oh and my camera broke just before leaving, so i have no pictures.. Hoping on the kindness of others to give me their pics :)
To be honest, I was a little weary about it at first. Leaving the base camp in Kampala on a small safari bus with 7 other Mzungus felt a bit strange. Living here is a much different experience then doing the short term tourist type deals that a lot of travelers do, so it was a bit of an awkward feeling at first taking on a tourist role. It can feel very superficial at times, almost as if you are really not getting a cultural glimpse of where you are headed but more of a fabricated, surface level glimpse of an experience that has been built to form to the needs and fancies of the tourist market. Anyways, I consciously tried to overcome these feelings, but they remained with me the entire trip, a trip that almost didn’t feel real. It felt, as I said above, extremely fabricated and predetermined. Beside these feelings, I still had an incredible time.
It is currently the short rainy season in the north western region of Uganda. This year has been extremely strange, many people stating that it has been the rainiest short rainy season they have ever experienced; a key indicator that climate change is in fact very real. The first night we were there we walked down to the Nile river and took in the scenery, looking like a patient bird watcher for the glimpse of a bathing Hippo, or possibly a bush Elephant grazing on some vegetation. At this point the animals seemed to be in hiding. We did find a giant metal globe, with hugely misrepresented countries painted on them. North Korea seemed to be about the size of Sudan. Haha maybe it was painted by Kim Gung-Il? We headed back to the camp with haste as the torrential rains were clouding the sky in dark hues of grey; winds blowing in a well needed coolness to the evening.
The food at Red Chili was incredible. Pumpkin curries, pork sausage pastas, chocolate custard cakes, mmm, lovely food. The best part is that there are no fences around the camp, so while you are eating your dinner, you get to enjoy the lovely company of scavenging warthogs. Pumba from the Lion King was there in numbers. Sadly enough they weren’t singing Hakuna Matata and scavenging for grubs. They were turning over garbage cans, leaving terd-mines that always became a lovely treat trying to avoid while walking aimlessly to the bathrooms at 4 in the morning in the pitch black. Hippos also come to the camps to graze on the grass at night. Unfortunately I didn’t get to stumble upon one while there.
The first night, I had unpacked my bag and laid out my clothes so that I could quickly leave the tent in the morning to shower and not wake up my tent mate. Really pays off to be considerate these days!! Haha the rains flooded our tent that night, and literally everything I brought was drenched like a sad little wet dog. Socks, Underwear, shirts, jeans, shorts, shoes, all saturated, and because it was raining all weekend, nothing dried out. Nothing dampens the soul like the lovely feel of wet socks on your feet. Haha
We woke up at 5:30 that morning to make it out for our 6:30 game drive. Drove down to the river by the Kim Gung-Il globe, and waited for the ferry to carry all the trucks across to the game park. There was this one Mzungu lady in an SUV behind us who was trucking around 8 teenagers to go on the game drive in her SUV. The look on this ladies face was if she had woken up with warthog dung in her mouth. She was sour, cold and gave off the worst energy imaginable. Beginning our drive through the park, she drove behind us, and became the laugh of our morning seeing just how contorted (almost as if she was constipated) her face would become and how frustrated she was at our van getting stuck on wet hills, fishtailing and spinning in the mud. It was a hoot. Our van had a detachable roof, so we were able to fully stand up and take in the fresh air and smell of Elephant dung as we wizzed through the park, going up and down hills, overlooking the beautiful Ugandan Plane, giraffes in the distance grazing on Accacia trees, Antelopes and Jackson Heartabeasts running at the sound of our van approaching, only to leave and sight of their behinds trotting away. Even the sight of their behinds was nicer then the look the lady in the SUV behind was giving us. She was almost as interesting to watch as the animals we sought to see. I even took pictures of her from the top of our van. haha
Due to the rain a lot of the animals were hiding, so we weren’t able to see the full extent of the wildlife present there, but we still did see some amazing animals. The Giraffes were extremely majestic and almost mythical, with such a noble presence and strength. Pulling up to take a look, they would stare back in a similar adoration that I was feeling for them. Eyes connecting, we looked deeply into each other and there was a connection I had never quite felt with an animal before. An understanding of some sort of a recognition that we felt welcome and warm in each others company. It was heartwarming and seemed to keep me warm in my tired, damp state. The Elephants also had quite a presence. The game drive was about 4 hours, with a lot of attention placed on searching to see Lions and Leopards. Unfortunately none were around to see.
Upon arriving back at the Ferry (which was out of commission) we spent some time waiting on the river bank (in hopes it would get fixed). There were 2 Baboons there that would jump into the windows of the vans looking for scraps of food to eat. I sat down on the ground by one of them (3-4 feet away) and again just sat in her presence and stared deeply into here eyes and felt that same connection again. They were so human like, eyes looking around taking in the surrounding environment and assessing the situation. It was such a strange feeling to be that close to a wild animal, yet feel so comfortable and at home with them. I loved it. Soon after the male baboon jumped onto the lip of a garbage can to find some scraps and like a clumsy ass, fell right off onto his back. Haha seems like something my tall clumsy self would do if I was an animal. He was extremely intelligent, grabbing a rubbished chip bag, and tactfully opening it with his hands and licking the crumbs out. Again so human like. I could see my Uncle John doing something like that if he was an animal. Hahaha The man loves leftovers and food scraps.. Love ya UJ!
After the game drive we returned to the camp for lunch. Everyone in the camp seemed to eat and then pass out in their chair. The rains came, and came with strength. Even the little Warthogs retreated to the undergrowth of the bush to hide from its strength. We roughed the rains and went back down to the river and boarded an 18 passenger metal boat. Something didn’t click being in a fully metal boat, in the middle of a thunderstorm and torrential rain on the river. I love how anything goes in Africa!! Haha We got to see some lovely lazy hippos, yawning with their giant mouths, dipping under the water upon our intrusion into their habitat, only to pop their cute little heads up again twitching their ears as if to say hello. Giant crocs speckled the banks at certain points, again swiftly plunging into the water at the sight of our metal monster of a boat. The sides of the boat really didn’t keep the rains out, so I became soaked, with soggy shoes and socks (enough to make even the Dalai Lama miserable. Haha) It’s fine being drenched, but as soon as your feet become wet, something changes. It’s like the feeling when a baby keeps crying in church and the parents aren’t considerate enough to take the baby for a walk. So s/he just keeps crying and crying, and the whole parish gets this subsurface agitated feeling like “SOMEONE GIVE THAT BABY A NIPPLE”. Yeah the nipple for me would have been a nice hot shower and some dry clothes, but neither were available this weekend, so I like the baby, was crying inside. Haha
The boat ride was fun, although I found myself feeling rather lonely, detached from the experience I was in, finding myself thinking about Lynne and family, wishing I could be sharing the experience with those I loved most. Could have been this, or the 10 or so rowdy American kayakers that were on our boat, drinking lots of beers, peeing off the side of the boat. While the ride to the falls wasn’t the greatest for me, what paid off was the amazing view of Murchison falls. I have never seen such a powerful river with so much strength. This huge volume of water narrows in from a couple hundred meters, down to about 6 meters, gushing through the cracks in the rock, spewing out at intense pressure. It was beautiful.
After seeing the falls, all I was interested in was returning to the camp for a cup of tea. The boat driver for some reason put the boat on turtle pace, and it took ages to get back to the dock. Not wanting to take part in the river pee festival that the Americans proudly displayed, haha I waited with my legs clinched together to get back to shore. We finally reached back and like a tapped fire hydrant on the streets of Brooklyn in the 50’s, I blasted the side of a tree. I am pretty sure the pressure could have taken the paint off of a car. Hahaha Would have loved to be able to write my name in the snow back home. Probably could have written a chapter of a novel with how full my tank was. We went back to the camp and sat by the bar in my drenched clothes. It was Jeremy’s 25th birthday (a friend of Emily; a girl I went to high school with in India who happens to be working here). We celebrated his birthday and everyone rang in the night with drinks. Was a fun night but being drenched and cold, I soon retreated to my tent to warm up under the blanket and soon passed out.
The joke of the night that has stuck with me, was told by one of my British friend’s, Justine. She comes off as this very proper English girl, so this joke came with howls and howls of laughter, coming from her of all people. “Why are there so many Pedophiles in the World?—Sexy Kids!” She followed up saying this by coyfully covering her mouth and raising her eyebrows. Haha was a hilarious moment.
Our last day was probably the most spectacular for me. We woke up early, packed our stuff, had a nice bagged breakfast and headed off to Murchison falls in our van to go for a hike. The hike was easy enough for a toddler to do (I was looking for something a little more challenging), but the views of the falls from atop the canyon ridges were beautiful. We then hiked down to the falls where I really got to see the power of the rapids and the water. Got absolutely soaked again from the mist, but luckily it was hot enough to dry before getting back in the van. I sat on a protruding rock that jetted into the river, and watched in adoration of the rapids, and the extreme power and rawness of nature. It was beautifully captivating and regrounded and recharged my energy. We were quickly rushed through the experience and asked to get back to the vans (the staff seemed to do a lot of that this trip). I could have stayed there for days and just sat and watched the water. It felt like home being there.
I passed out for the majority of the ride home, except for lunch, and of course when arriving at the roasted cassava stand (mmm can never get enough roasted cassava.. Love the stuff). Arrived home to some lovely roommates, exchanging stories of our trips and our weekends and passed out early.
I might be off to Bujugali Falls next weekend in Jinja to do some white water rafting, before the world bank dams up the Nile in December and ends the rapids there (hopefully it does more good then harm to Uganda).
Will write again soon hopefully.
Sorry for the gap in writing.
love you all
oh and my camera broke just before leaving, so i have no pictures.. Hoping on the kindness of others to give me their pics :)
10/24/08
The Food That Makes My World Go 'Round
So I just finished lunch, and food is still fresh on the mind. I have been in love with food my whole life and quite frankly eating is one of my favourite things to do (besides giving hugs). The food here has fully captivated me. To the majority of expat pallettes, Ugandan food is bland, boring and a bucket of starch. To me, I have found pure beauty in it. It is some of the freshest food I have ever had. Everyday at the office I am blessed with a giant plate or rice, freshly cooked beans in tomato sauce and onions, a slice of steamed sweet potato, and a large helping of steamed plantain (matouke). AHH it is incredible. I usually get the symptoms of "dosing" as many Ugandans do after eating this carb loaded delight. haha but it is all part of the joy of eating here.
Yesterdays lunch was a shocker. I am eating my beans, rice, matouke and sweet potato as usual, reading the news on my latop. Halfway through my meal, I looked down and there were 5 thumbnail sized worms squigglin around in my beans, and a bunch of thin long clear worms in the mix with them. haha I have really come to not care about things here, as I found myself pick out the large worms and throw them out the window, mix in the rest, and continue on eating as if nothing had happened. haha I could definately see myself stranded in a rainforest, turning over rotten logs, eating grubs to survive. I now know I have it in me.. :)
On to the ROLEX!! AHH Uganda's most amazing cuisine treasure. The streets are dotted with little tiny food stands advertising "rolex and chapati". When I first arrived here I literally thought they were selling watches and bread. hahaha Upon closer look I discovered a little piece of heaven. Chopped cabbage, tomato, green pepper and onion fried with 2 eggs and rolled up into a fresh chapati. This has become by far my most favourite food globally. Of all the places I have lived and all the food I have been exposed to, nothing hits home and satisfies the gut and soul like a Rolex. I am currently considering bringing this ingenious delicacy to the streets of Canada, where profit margins for this treat would skyrocket. (if you are reading this please dont steal the idea. hahahah)
Ahhhh food. How I love you!!!
Yesterdays lunch was a shocker. I am eating my beans, rice, matouke and sweet potato as usual, reading the news on my latop. Halfway through my meal, I looked down and there were 5 thumbnail sized worms squigglin around in my beans, and a bunch of thin long clear worms in the mix with them. haha I have really come to not care about things here, as I found myself pick out the large worms and throw them out the window, mix in the rest, and continue on eating as if nothing had happened. haha I could definately see myself stranded in a rainforest, turning over rotten logs, eating grubs to survive. I now know I have it in me.. :)
On to the ROLEX!! AHH Uganda's most amazing cuisine treasure. The streets are dotted with little tiny food stands advertising "rolex and chapati". When I first arrived here I literally thought they were selling watches and bread. hahaha Upon closer look I discovered a little piece of heaven. Chopped cabbage, tomato, green pepper and onion fried with 2 eggs and rolled up into a fresh chapati. This has become by far my most favourite food globally. Of all the places I have lived and all the food I have been exposed to, nothing hits home and satisfies the gut and soul like a Rolex. I am currently considering bringing this ingenious delicacy to the streets of Canada, where profit margins for this treat would skyrocket. (if you are reading this please dont steal the idea. hahahah)
Ahhhh food. How I love you!!!
10/15/08
Little Man Syndrome
This is probably going to be a Debby Downer post so brace yourself. Hahaha
Work has recently been a little frustrating. These CIDA internships seem to be hit or miss in terms of the quality of the supervisor you are given and how much they put into your development as an employee. It appears that I got the extreme shit end of the stick on this placement. I knew from the start that it was going to be a challenge, but never thought that my supervisor could be so disinterested and unengaged in my role here. Not to place any judgment, but more just outlining the truth of the matter, he is a man with a huge ego of his own intelligence and abilities, with not a care for what others are capable of and can bring to the table. He suffers from extreme little man syndrome, overcompensating in hubris and self love for his mini stature. He has, without a lie, not given me one piece of work, one piece of advice, one ounce of guidance, no resources, no direction or identification of priorities and barely gives me the time of day when I go to communicate with him. A couple of weeks ago I went in to talk to him and he literally handed me his business card and said “if you need to speak to me please send me an email and I will get back when I have the time.” Do you think he ever responds to my e-mails? Nope!! Haha
If my organization were made into an office drama, this guy would for sure be the topic of shit talking at the candy machine/water jug. Haha I don’t really have anyone at the office I can openly express my feelings on this matter with, hence why you all have to put up with it.
Think my priorities might change here from being a field worker, going out and working hands on with the farmers (which I love), to focusing my energy on creating an inclusive environmental policy and a standardized environmental assessment approach for UCA’s programming. I can only go on my own assessments of the needs, as the direction and leadership just isn’t there to guide me towards something.
On top of that things move at the slowesssssst pace. Even just to get a ripped internet line repaired took 2.5 weeks to get done, so you can imagine on the bigger stuff, it just lags, gets pushed to the bottom of the pile, and resurfaces when you have already begun to work on something else. It’s a system I am slowly learning my place in and learning how to get around.
On to some more positive things. Life has been grand. Getting to become closer with friends I have met here has been a blessing. There are a great many amazing souls here in the NGO community that I have been fortunate to meet and that side of life here has been beautiful. The people I have met love to dance, and the majority are beginning to really embrace the hugs, which is great because it is something I have been missing since leaving home. Back home the daily hug quota was about 15-20 people per day. Here it is usually maybe one a day if that, with maybe 10 per day on the weekends. The hug army is slowly building and it is something I would love to see grow in Ugandan society. Hugs connect hearts, they bridge barriers, they break down negative emotions, they are rejuvenating, invigorating and by far my favourite thing to do.
Went to the first International Jazz Festival this weekend at a resort along the banks of Lake Victoria. Had some of the most incredible Afro Jazz fusion blasting into the night. I have never danced so much in my life. It surprised me how few people were dancing. Had so many people pointing and laughing, guys running over and imitating my moves and then running back and laughing with their friends about it. Security guards giving me thumbs up, female resort workers covering their mouths and giggling, whispering to their friends. Oh well, couldn’t care whether I looked like a complete knob, I was having a blast. My friend Pete joined for dinner last night and he asked if anyone has come up to me for an autograph yet. I was confused.. Apparently the whole festival was being filmed (about 8 hours in all) and he said the camera was focused on my dancing for about 40% of the time. Hahaha It was broadcast on all the major Ugandan tv stations. Was really embarrassing to find out, as I was fully just giving it for the entire 8 hours, drenched in sweat, serious swamp ass in my jeans. Hope that wasn’t visible. “Hey Mzungu swamp ass, I really liked your dancing” haha
There was this incredible South African artist Miriam Makeba. The energy she put out, the wittiness, her jokes, her lively dancing, her singing, her ability to carry on for an hour.. It all amazed me. This lady gave it her all and was 76.. I was stunned the whole night and it only served to further keep me going with the full-on drenched dancing.
I head up to Nebbi and Arua come Monday for 11 days to implement some of the water and soil conservation trainings I have been developing. It should be a nice trip. I was very excited, as for a long time now I have been pushing for my co-worker Ronah to come to the field and implement some gender training workshops. My supervisor has denied her application twice, saying that there is no funding available for her to go. I took it into my own hands and contacted my boss in Ottawa asking if some of my travel allotment could be given to ronah so she could come to the field. After a couple of emails back and fourth they agreed, and Ronah was on cloud nine, soooo excited to see upcountry and get out and get some more hands on experience. I went to inform my supervisor that the funding had gone through and he told me that he will put a stop on it going through, as he doesn’t feel she is qualified ( even though she has done about 5 gender training workshops already elsewhere) and doesn’t feel it is appropriate for a Ugandan to be using my funding.. It has completely set me off, hence the motivation for writing this downer post about him, Ronah had so much hope in her eyes hearing that CCA had approved her to go to the north. She was the most excited I had seen her, smiling from ear to ear, energy at an all time peak. She was then devastated hearing she wouldn’t be going. This goes back to my supe. Not noticing the capacities and strengths of others. Ronah has so much potential and so many skills, but it seems like so many of the management staff here are holding her back and not allowing her to foster this potential. Drives me nuts!!!!
Anywho just some frustrations and good things I am going through..
Think I might end all communication with my supervisor. It is pointless to try and only puts a hamper on my energy. Not really losing anything by doing so. We shall see where things go in the next 4 months. Will keep you posted.
Love Love Love
Work has recently been a little frustrating. These CIDA internships seem to be hit or miss in terms of the quality of the supervisor you are given and how much they put into your development as an employee. It appears that I got the extreme shit end of the stick on this placement. I knew from the start that it was going to be a challenge, but never thought that my supervisor could be so disinterested and unengaged in my role here. Not to place any judgment, but more just outlining the truth of the matter, he is a man with a huge ego of his own intelligence and abilities, with not a care for what others are capable of and can bring to the table. He suffers from extreme little man syndrome, overcompensating in hubris and self love for his mini stature. He has, without a lie, not given me one piece of work, one piece of advice, one ounce of guidance, no resources, no direction or identification of priorities and barely gives me the time of day when I go to communicate with him. A couple of weeks ago I went in to talk to him and he literally handed me his business card and said “if you need to speak to me please send me an email and I will get back when I have the time.” Do you think he ever responds to my e-mails? Nope!! Haha
If my organization were made into an office drama, this guy would for sure be the topic of shit talking at the candy machine/water jug. Haha I don’t really have anyone at the office I can openly express my feelings on this matter with, hence why you all have to put up with it.
Think my priorities might change here from being a field worker, going out and working hands on with the farmers (which I love), to focusing my energy on creating an inclusive environmental policy and a standardized environmental assessment approach for UCA’s programming. I can only go on my own assessments of the needs, as the direction and leadership just isn’t there to guide me towards something.
On top of that things move at the slowesssssst pace. Even just to get a ripped internet line repaired took 2.5 weeks to get done, so you can imagine on the bigger stuff, it just lags, gets pushed to the bottom of the pile, and resurfaces when you have already begun to work on something else. It’s a system I am slowly learning my place in and learning how to get around.
On to some more positive things. Life has been grand. Getting to become closer with friends I have met here has been a blessing. There are a great many amazing souls here in the NGO community that I have been fortunate to meet and that side of life here has been beautiful. The people I have met love to dance, and the majority are beginning to really embrace the hugs, which is great because it is something I have been missing since leaving home. Back home the daily hug quota was about 15-20 people per day. Here it is usually maybe one a day if that, with maybe 10 per day on the weekends. The hug army is slowly building and it is something I would love to see grow in Ugandan society. Hugs connect hearts, they bridge barriers, they break down negative emotions, they are rejuvenating, invigorating and by far my favourite thing to do.
Went to the first International Jazz Festival this weekend at a resort along the banks of Lake Victoria. Had some of the most incredible Afro Jazz fusion blasting into the night. I have never danced so much in my life. It surprised me how few people were dancing. Had so many people pointing and laughing, guys running over and imitating my moves and then running back and laughing with their friends about it. Security guards giving me thumbs up, female resort workers covering their mouths and giggling, whispering to their friends. Oh well, couldn’t care whether I looked like a complete knob, I was having a blast. My friend Pete joined for dinner last night and he asked if anyone has come up to me for an autograph yet. I was confused.. Apparently the whole festival was being filmed (about 8 hours in all) and he said the camera was focused on my dancing for about 40% of the time. Hahaha It was broadcast on all the major Ugandan tv stations. Was really embarrassing to find out, as I was fully just giving it for the entire 8 hours, drenched in sweat, serious swamp ass in my jeans. Hope that wasn’t visible. “Hey Mzungu swamp ass, I really liked your dancing” haha
There was this incredible South African artist Miriam Makeba. The energy she put out, the wittiness, her jokes, her lively dancing, her singing, her ability to carry on for an hour.. It all amazed me. This lady gave it her all and was 76.. I was stunned the whole night and it only served to further keep me going with the full-on drenched dancing.
I head up to Nebbi and Arua come Monday for 11 days to implement some of the water and soil conservation trainings I have been developing. It should be a nice trip. I was very excited, as for a long time now I have been pushing for my co-worker Ronah to come to the field and implement some gender training workshops. My supervisor has denied her application twice, saying that there is no funding available for her to go. I took it into my own hands and contacted my boss in Ottawa asking if some of my travel allotment could be given to ronah so she could come to the field. After a couple of emails back and fourth they agreed, and Ronah was on cloud nine, soooo excited to see upcountry and get out and get some more hands on experience. I went to inform my supervisor that the funding had gone through and he told me that he will put a stop on it going through, as he doesn’t feel she is qualified ( even though she has done about 5 gender training workshops already elsewhere) and doesn’t feel it is appropriate for a Ugandan to be using my funding.. It has completely set me off, hence the motivation for writing this downer post about him, Ronah had so much hope in her eyes hearing that CCA had approved her to go to the north. She was the most excited I had seen her, smiling from ear to ear, energy at an all time peak. She was then devastated hearing she wouldn’t be going. This goes back to my supe. Not noticing the capacities and strengths of others. Ronah has so much potential and so many skills, but it seems like so many of the management staff here are holding her back and not allowing her to foster this potential. Drives me nuts!!!!
Anywho just some frustrations and good things I am going through..
Think I might end all communication with my supervisor. It is pointless to try and only puts a hamper on my energy. Not really losing anything by doing so. We shall see where things go in the next 4 months. Will keep you posted.
Love Love Love
10/10/08
Building Trust for Global Solutions
Hey.. Had this discussion with a friend here in Uganda recently, and thought it beneficial to share..
The world we live in today is becoming a well defined mosaic of life; diversity resplendently expressing itself as it paints an intricate portrait of the larger picture of the world on an open, boundless canvas. Each culture, each community, each individual expressing different views of the workings of life and the world, but what one can notice, if one searches that there are vast underlining meaning and shared realities that connect all our hearts as one.
Looking into religion. The world has become so divided, each religion pushing for its' place on a global scale, spreading messages to gain entitlement in their own mission, ideology and purpose. Dogma and tradition have divided humanity so much that it makes the purpose of religion—the unification of mankind and looking out for our brothers and sisters—extremely obsolete and non-existent. Each one so blinded by the institution that they have conformed to, and what it means on a surface level to be part of that institution, forgetting more on the real lessons and guides of action that they are grounded in that can connect us all. Religion is a personal search for ultimate truth, rather then a blind following of the masses to interpretations laid out by individuals claiming to have a higher connection to this ultimate truth. People are so forceful on defining themselves in a predetermined box, that it hinders the development of a world where we see the shared similarities existing between the human fabric of mankind, and see rather the world from a much narrower view, a view of division and segregation from one another. In the search for this personal truth, one can see that all paths lead to the same ultimate reality, yet the majority of these paths are so reinforced by giant walls and barbed wire, that people lack seeing that they all run parallel to one another. If tradition and dogma could be looked beyond I think so many of the worlds problems could be solved in collaboration. The majority of the west has come to see Islam solely as a radical, fanatical religion, with people who don't value life and seek to terrorize the world. This drives me wild, as Islam is a faith of peace, grounded again on global collaboration and ultimate peace building and unity. Evangelical Christians are just as fanatical as Muslim extremists, yet the world has not come to generalize Christianity in the same light. Religion should be done away with if the truth of it is to be consistently covered over by surface level identity.
Of most importance is personal investigation and personal initiative to wholeheartedly embrace ourselves in a light that empowers us to grow both spiritually and mentally in understanding both the falsity of many of the thoughts that our minds stir up about ourselves and others, and to allow these thoughts to dissipate through remaining connected to a state of higher consciousness that exists in and around ourselves right here, right now.
Judgment, an a aspect of the human reality, direly needs to change. There exists so much judgment in the world, and at the onset of seeing something negative or bad in someone, we ultimately place judgment on people and further the divide of collaborating and building global trust. Looking and focusing on the goodness of people is what truly matters. Negativity and bad things exist in all people, but if they are not on a level that significantly impacts others lives and wellbeing, then why do they matter? They are insignificant. What is of the greatest importance are the amazing qualities that exist in peoples hearts, and there are many. We must become grounded in seeing the goodness of others and embracing the goodness of ourselves. We will always have things we want to change in our life and about ourselves. An approach for doing this is noticing the good things that are going on in yourself and in your life and putting full energy into fostering their growth. The growth of these attributes inevitably will lead to the things you want to change about yourself, to do just that, change. This approach embraces the beauty, letting the light grow. “Even the smallest candle brings light to any darkness.” Imagine if that candle turned into a giant bonfire, fueled by a positive drive to see the goodness in yourself and others. Before you know it the darkness is less visible, and the bright light of yourself and others is what you begin to focus on. This is not the ego, as this is grounded in truth and humbleness. The ego is a product of the mind. This positive progression is solely an expression and revelation of the heart, which is who we truly are as humans. The mind will continuously confuse us and create internal chaos. With our heart as the compass of our lives, deep intuition leads our life on a much more truthful path, clear to what directions our lives are headed and what we need to do to progress together, in oneness. With the heart strong, it begins to influence thoughts and puts up an ever expanding filter that begins to purify our thoughts, speeding up the time it takes to get over negative things in our lives and returning our intentions and focus to the positive--grass is greener right where I am--side of life. The ending of judgment of others and ourselves, as well as the focus on revealing the positive attributes of others and ourselves rather then focusing on the negative is deeply essential. We can have the most sustainable, holistic approaches to solving the worlds' problems, but if trust in our fellow (wo)man is not present, it won't matter how smart and strategic our plans are. It is my view that lack of true trust building is one of the key root problems to the current global strife.
Nature, the world, its’ people, exist in so much beauty. We taint this beauty by our narrow views, our judgment, our own personal lens’. We must broaden our lens’ to see the truth in ourselves, others and the world around us. If we are to forge global solutions, it is essential that we find foundations in an approach grounded in trust building and opening our perception to the real world around us.
Hope you are all well..
Much love
The world we live in today is becoming a well defined mosaic of life; diversity resplendently expressing itself as it paints an intricate portrait of the larger picture of the world on an open, boundless canvas. Each culture, each community, each individual expressing different views of the workings of life and the world, but what one can notice, if one searches that there are vast underlining meaning and shared realities that connect all our hearts as one.
Looking into religion. The world has become so divided, each religion pushing for its' place on a global scale, spreading messages to gain entitlement in their own mission, ideology and purpose. Dogma and tradition have divided humanity so much that it makes the purpose of religion—the unification of mankind and looking out for our brothers and sisters—extremely obsolete and non-existent. Each one so blinded by the institution that they have conformed to, and what it means on a surface level to be part of that institution, forgetting more on the real lessons and guides of action that they are grounded in that can connect us all. Religion is a personal search for ultimate truth, rather then a blind following of the masses to interpretations laid out by individuals claiming to have a higher connection to this ultimate truth. People are so forceful on defining themselves in a predetermined box, that it hinders the development of a world where we see the shared similarities existing between the human fabric of mankind, and see rather the world from a much narrower view, a view of division and segregation from one another. In the search for this personal truth, one can see that all paths lead to the same ultimate reality, yet the majority of these paths are so reinforced by giant walls and barbed wire, that people lack seeing that they all run parallel to one another. If tradition and dogma could be looked beyond I think so many of the worlds problems could be solved in collaboration. The majority of the west has come to see Islam solely as a radical, fanatical religion, with people who don't value life and seek to terrorize the world. This drives me wild, as Islam is a faith of peace, grounded again on global collaboration and ultimate peace building and unity. Evangelical Christians are just as fanatical as Muslim extremists, yet the world has not come to generalize Christianity in the same light. Religion should be done away with if the truth of it is to be consistently covered over by surface level identity.
Of most importance is personal investigation and personal initiative to wholeheartedly embrace ourselves in a light that empowers us to grow both spiritually and mentally in understanding both the falsity of many of the thoughts that our minds stir up about ourselves and others, and to allow these thoughts to dissipate through remaining connected to a state of higher consciousness that exists in and around ourselves right here, right now.
Judgment, an a aspect of the human reality, direly needs to change. There exists so much judgment in the world, and at the onset of seeing something negative or bad in someone, we ultimately place judgment on people and further the divide of collaborating and building global trust. Looking and focusing on the goodness of people is what truly matters. Negativity and bad things exist in all people, but if they are not on a level that significantly impacts others lives and wellbeing, then why do they matter? They are insignificant. What is of the greatest importance are the amazing qualities that exist in peoples hearts, and there are many. We must become grounded in seeing the goodness of others and embracing the goodness of ourselves. We will always have things we want to change in our life and about ourselves. An approach for doing this is noticing the good things that are going on in yourself and in your life and putting full energy into fostering their growth. The growth of these attributes inevitably will lead to the things you want to change about yourself, to do just that, change. This approach embraces the beauty, letting the light grow. “Even the smallest candle brings light to any darkness.” Imagine if that candle turned into a giant bonfire, fueled by a positive drive to see the goodness in yourself and others. Before you know it the darkness is less visible, and the bright light of yourself and others is what you begin to focus on. This is not the ego, as this is grounded in truth and humbleness. The ego is a product of the mind. This positive progression is solely an expression and revelation of the heart, which is who we truly are as humans. The mind will continuously confuse us and create internal chaos. With our heart as the compass of our lives, deep intuition leads our life on a much more truthful path, clear to what directions our lives are headed and what we need to do to progress together, in oneness. With the heart strong, it begins to influence thoughts and puts up an ever expanding filter that begins to purify our thoughts, speeding up the time it takes to get over negative things in our lives and returning our intentions and focus to the positive--grass is greener right where I am--side of life. The ending of judgment of others and ourselves, as well as the focus on revealing the positive attributes of others and ourselves rather then focusing on the negative is deeply essential. We can have the most sustainable, holistic approaches to solving the worlds' problems, but if trust in our fellow (wo)man is not present, it won't matter how smart and strategic our plans are. It is my view that lack of true trust building is one of the key root problems to the current global strife.
Nature, the world, its’ people, exist in so much beauty. We taint this beauty by our narrow views, our judgment, our own personal lens’. We must broaden our lens’ to see the truth in ourselves, others and the world around us. If we are to forge global solutions, it is essential that we find foundations in an approach grounded in trust building and opening our perception to the real world around us.
Hope you are all well..
Much love
10/8/08
An Ode to Co-operatives
Ode to Co-operatives
Co-operatives; collectivized, member driven, they truly pave the way,
Building the global co-operative paradigm is essential for solving our problems today.
Like a stream under a bridge, co-ops challenge the current global economic scheme,
This current is rising, working tirelessly to build collaboration, contributing to a unified team…
A group of individuals with a common purpose, a shared vision, and a destined drive,
Sowing the seeds for long term livelihood improvement, communities begin to thrive.
This movement is truly alive, with improvements to the model consistently underway,
Evolving towards strong, holistic enterprises; building foundations for peace today.
With values grounded in equality, transparency, accountability and integrity,
A model that empowers those in vulnerability, paving a successful path for the entire world to see.
One must see that the current economic paradigm is one that’s withering under its’ feet,
Co-ops are becoming powerful contenders; soon the current system won’t be able to compete.
We must all refocus the co-operative spirit, distributing the values at a heightened pace.
Further enabling community driven approaches to come out on top in the economic rat race.
We are on the brink of great change, threats exist, but with clear sight, opportunities are born,
Building unity in diversity, fostering development in peace, mending communities that were once torn.
Let us come together and give thanks to the people who dedicate their lives to building this positive direction,
Building strong cooperative societies founded in virtues and values since the movements’ inception.
Let us continue moving forward, laying bricks, paving paths that lead the cooperative way,
The sky is the limit in collectivized action, the fuel burning the fire for community driven development is here to stay.
In this day and age let us reflect on where we have come thus far, and have great faith in where we can go,
Be confident and proud, knowing at heart that this beautiful movement will only continue to grow.
Co-operatives; collectivized, member driven, they truly pave the way,
Building the global co-operative paradigm is essential for solving our problems today.
Like a stream under a bridge, co-ops challenge the current global economic scheme,
This current is rising, working tirelessly to build collaboration, contributing to a unified team…
A group of individuals with a common purpose, a shared vision, and a destined drive,
Sowing the seeds for long term livelihood improvement, communities begin to thrive.
This movement is truly alive, with improvements to the model consistently underway,
Evolving towards strong, holistic enterprises; building foundations for peace today.
With values grounded in equality, transparency, accountability and integrity,
A model that empowers those in vulnerability, paving a successful path for the entire world to see.
One must see that the current economic paradigm is one that’s withering under its’ feet,
Co-ops are becoming powerful contenders; soon the current system won’t be able to compete.
We must all refocus the co-operative spirit, distributing the values at a heightened pace.
Further enabling community driven approaches to come out on top in the economic rat race.
We are on the brink of great change, threats exist, but with clear sight, opportunities are born,
Building unity in diversity, fostering development in peace, mending communities that were once torn.
Let us come together and give thanks to the people who dedicate their lives to building this positive direction,
Building strong cooperative societies founded in virtues and values since the movements’ inception.
Let us continue moving forward, laying bricks, paving paths that lead the cooperative way,
The sky is the limit in collectivized action, the fuel burning the fire for community driven development is here to stay.
In this day and age let us reflect on where we have come thus far, and have great faith in where we can go,
Be confident and proud, knowing at heart that this beautiful movement will only continue to grow.
10/5/08
Love
Had the chance to talk with my brother today for a half hour and like a light switch, he was able to flip me right back to feeling grounded, aware and awake again. Thank you Bren! love you with all my heart.
As I sit here all kinds of thoughts of peace, love and diversity are racing through my head, thinking of the great potential that each individual human being has. While energy prospetors are looking to tap into new renewable resources, we should be looking at how we can tap into our collectively shared resources of the heart, the positive mind and the shared bonds that connect us. While contemplation only serves to outline the reality of the world, it fails to take action towards the issues we contemplate on. Going to therefore outline some extremely simple daily actions you can share with others to bridge the natural/fabricated gaps that exist between each other.
1. make today a day to say something positive to 5 people in your day who you usually don't communicate with regularly. Be creative with your approach..
2. Give a hug to a random person. It can be very uncomfortable at first, but with practice you will honestly begin to not care about their reaction, and focus more on the fact that love is being spread. and oh will you get some funny reactions. haha
3. write a positive card about life, about positive change, about the power of humanity coming together, put it in an envelope and hand it off to someone that you pass while walking on the street. at the end of the letter have instructions to pass it on to another person.
4. if you are a religious person, converse with people of other religions and focus discussion on the shared similarities and positive messages existant between faiths, building on global collaboration. This especially needs to happen between religions.
5. Exchange smiles while driving, walking, sitting at your desk. wherever you work, play make an effort to show people you!! A smile is like a persons book cover. It reveals what is beneath.. make that book cover damn beautiful and share smiles.
6. have read in scientific research that giving/recieving 5-10 hugs a day is groundbreaking in terms of positively effecting ones mood and those around.
7. Think positive. The thoughts we have on a daily basis, truly create the world we see. More positive our thinking becomes, the more beauty we will start to see grow around us.
Anywho, love love and more love!
As I sit here all kinds of thoughts of peace, love and diversity are racing through my head, thinking of the great potential that each individual human being has. While energy prospetors are looking to tap into new renewable resources, we should be looking at how we can tap into our collectively shared resources of the heart, the positive mind and the shared bonds that connect us. While contemplation only serves to outline the reality of the world, it fails to take action towards the issues we contemplate on. Going to therefore outline some extremely simple daily actions you can share with others to bridge the natural/fabricated gaps that exist between each other.
1. make today a day to say something positive to 5 people in your day who you usually don't communicate with regularly. Be creative with your approach..
2. Give a hug to a random person. It can be very uncomfortable at first, but with practice you will honestly begin to not care about their reaction, and focus more on the fact that love is being spread. and oh will you get some funny reactions. haha
3. write a positive card about life, about positive change, about the power of humanity coming together, put it in an envelope and hand it off to someone that you pass while walking on the street. at the end of the letter have instructions to pass it on to another person.
4. if you are a religious person, converse with people of other religions and focus discussion on the shared similarities and positive messages existant between faiths, building on global collaboration. This especially needs to happen between religions.
5. Exchange smiles while driving, walking, sitting at your desk. wherever you work, play make an effort to show people you!! A smile is like a persons book cover. It reveals what is beneath.. make that book cover damn beautiful and share smiles.
6. have read in scientific research that giving/recieving 5-10 hugs a day is groundbreaking in terms of positively effecting ones mood and those around.
7. Think positive. The thoughts we have on a daily basis, truly create the world we see. More positive our thinking becomes, the more beauty we will start to see grow around us.
Anywho, love love and more love!
CRASH
So Matt (from my IPMP program at
As we approached the hill up to my house, a car pulled out in front of us, cutting us off, causing the boda driver to come to a halt. He than failed to put the bike back in first gear, revved it and sent us all flying backwards, bike whipping into the air. Bam, crunch, my ass hits the pavement, matt lands on me, the guy lands on matt and the bike lands on the guy. It was rather shocking at first, especially with the onlookers laughing at us, no concern to be found. Within a split second I was up and walking hastily up the street to get away from the scene. Looking back I literally didn’t even take a second to make sure everyone was ok. Hopefully I can learn from this reaction and be more aware of the situation and those involved next time.
Just when we thought the crazy day was over, we were on another boda that day driving about 70 km in between traffic on both sides of the road. I had my bag held on the side with my hand on top. BAM!! My hand slams into the back of a car and the boda goes all wobbly. Thank god he regained balance. All in all no one got hurt, and its just one other crazy experience to add to the palette of life in
Hope you are all well.
Chat soon,
9/29/08
Homesick
Hi everyone!! Sorry I haven't written a post in some time now. To be honest, I think I have past the honeymoon phase of living abroad and have moved into adjustment now. I have been extremely homesick the last week and have definitely found it takes its' toll on my overall energy, feeling somewhat fatigued and down. Don't get me wrong, I still absolutely love living here and the experiences and vividness of Uganda. This is just a reality one must go through in leaving loved ones, familiarity and comfort back home.
It is an experience I am also valuing as it adds more insight into the feelings I have for family and friends back home and the palette of emotions of the human experience. It is refreshing to go through these times as it reminds us of the trials and tests of being alive. It reminds us to appreciate more the times that we are grounded, in tune and aware with ourselves and the lives we lead. It brings about deeper self reflection, knowledge of the self, and a wider scope of emotional introspection. Although I hope to swing back soon, for now I will push through these times and take them as lessons.
I hope everyone is doing well, adjusting to the change in seasons (both back home with the changing of leaves and the onset of fall and winter, and those entering into the dry or rainy season.. Oh how I love torrential rain :)
May the change in the elements also signify a change within ourselves. The shedding of a skin we have been putting off, blooming of ourselves, bearing the fruits we seek to create.
So much love...
PEACE
It is an experience I am also valuing as it adds more insight into the feelings I have for family and friends back home and the palette of emotions of the human experience. It is refreshing to go through these times as it reminds us of the trials and tests of being alive. It reminds us to appreciate more the times that we are grounded, in tune and aware with ourselves and the lives we lead. It brings about deeper self reflection, knowledge of the self, and a wider scope of emotional introspection. Although I hope to swing back soon, for now I will push through these times and take them as lessons.
I hope everyone is doing well, adjusting to the change in seasons (both back home with the changing of leaves and the onset of fall and winter, and those entering into the dry or rainy season.. Oh how I love torrential rain :)
May the change in the elements also signify a change within ourselves. The shedding of a skin we have been putting off, blooming of ourselves, bearing the fruits we seek to create.
So much love...
PEACE
9/19/08
Nebbified!
This field trip to Nebbi has been a complete eye-opener.. It is hard to sum up the experiences in words, for many of them were felt with the heart. The drive up to Nebbi was eventful, roads under construction (some sections had a speed bump every 20 feet for 2 miles. Hahaha) Needless to say a trip that was estimated to take 4 hours, ended up taking over 9. It was fun though, had an amazing chance to get to know my driver Martin really well, and to hear a lot of his personal stories and experiences of the past presidents and the wars that have consumed Uganda. His insight into the past events were really revealing. People in Uganda share very different opinions of certain issues/events from where they are from in the country. Martin is native to Gulu but has been living in Kampala for many years, so his perspectives are a fusion between the two regions. Was extremely interesting to listen to.
The landscape and scenery along the way was simply breathtaking. So nice to get out of the city and breath in some fresh air, looking to the horizon to see as far as the eye can go, clear beautiful African Skies, low lands with Elephants grazing on Palm Tree Fruits, Baboons and Monkeys roaming the roadsides for food that people throw them, seeing the immense brute power and force of the Nile River crashing over boulders, leaping over waterfalls, Hills upon hills lush with extreme diversity in plant life, tree species, birds and soil types, thatch roof huts with amazing homestead farming, goats roaming the streets and villages, Cows with huge horns dictating the flow of traffic, mothers and children carrying 100L water hugs (sometimes 2) on their heads---It was beautifulll!!!!
I think the hardest and most revealing (in terms of grander gleanings) part of the trip (which occurred very early on in the travels) was driving through 3 IDP (Internally Displaced People) camps new GULU and seeing people who after 20 years of struggle and readjustment to life after war were fullys returning to regular life, things were picking up, people were returning to their villages and re-establishing themselves. The ones that have stayed are rebuilding agriculture in the region, re-establishing strong markets, rebuilding regional trust, and re-mending the beauty of the human fabric of life. There was such hope, such joy and happiness on the peoples faces and in the interaction with one another. It astounds me, the healing process is long and with many obstacles along the way, but at the same time I think it brings about a sort of social enlightenment in a sense. It now solidifies a strong yearning and initiative for long lasting peace. An evolving of society towards true communal values on a broader scale. This at least is the course I am seeing develop and the path that many humans are craving in this time of global strife, war, poverty, hunger, disease, climate change. We are all yearning for change, for a sense of real, stable and truthful global peace and cooperation. The people of Uganda and the strength they have had on this path should inspire us all…
On to the rest of the trip, Nebbi was incredible. Every day I would meet Martin and George (UCA Field Officer in Nebbi, who just had his 6th child today, yay!!) at 8:30, we would stop by the field office and then head out for 2-3 hour jdrives into the middle of nowhere. Not knowing where I was headed or who I would meet always made the ride even more enticing. Our first day we headed up to Zeu.. Have never seen such views. The road to the village was through the Highlands of Nebbi, basically cradling the ridge of a series of mountainous hilly ranges, down side streets, up 70 degree slopes (have no clue how the driver did it. Felt like the car was going to tip backwards, travelling down random paths fit for a bicycle (needless to say with the windows down I got smacked in the head quite the many times with 8 foot high grass. Haha).
Looking out the window to the right are endless hills, covered in pockets of thatch roof huts, sunlight lighting up the coloration in the hillside (deep green grass and trees from the heavy rainfall this year, deep browns covered in arrays of crops) It almost looked as if the hills were covered with decorative quilts. Looking out the window out the left, and you see hills of the Democratic Republic of Congo, until the horizon broke. Arriving at the first village I met Mary, quite the entrepreneur. She grows beans, maize, Cassava, coffee, pumpkin, bee hives, cows, goats and chickens, all on different plots that you intricately walk to through secret little paths through the bush. It was an agricultural jungle.. So lovely. Felt like I was in Lord of the Rings, feeling somewhat of a fulfilment to a nostalgic life as a farmer that I have always dreamed about.
The most amazing thing happened, we were walking to see her bee hives (quite a hike down a hill) and it started to pour (full-on monsoon style). It was incredible walking in the middle of nowhere, on the side of a huge hill, overlooking the valleys and hills, with soulful rain pouring down. I wish I had a lamp post (I would have jumped around singing “I’m singing in the rain”).. I had the biggest smile on both my heart and face. It was liberating and thrilling, it livened my spirit and calmed my soul, it reconnected me to so many feeling and thoughts of openness and enjoying the simple things in life that we have been blessed with on earth (like getting to smile when it rains. Here it is a blessing, for it allows for good harvests, back home we complain because it might mess up our hair. Hahaha).
Second , third and fourth day were spent on similar trips, but all to different regions of Nebbi, all different soil types, topography and crops that farmers were growing. I saw farmers who produced Mangoes, Oranges, Lemon, Okra, A variety of tree species in makeshift tree nurseries, banana, and other crops (really too many to type). All had different sloping plots, all different soil make ups, different environmental impacts (from too much rain, to to little, from fertile rich black loamy soil to sandy and rocky, you name it agriculturally it was there.) Enough of agriculture, as I am going to have several more posts to relay the learning’s and observations of that side of things later on….
Jump to a rather funny, but embarrassing story (got to share these ones. They’re what make traveling such a great time). I was out about 3 hours in the middle of nowhere, and then down a super long random side road, again further into the middle of nowhere. I was tentatively listening to the agricultural wisdom of Orambi (a farm manager in one of the project sites). He was telling me about pruning, propagating and grafting exotic mango cuttings onto native mango root stalks (was really interesting to me), but boom, bam, blurp, slush, slosh, owwweeee I got a sudden stab in my stomache-- the most explosive, nuclear meltdown diarrhea arrived on the scene, and like a firefighter, it was rushing quickly to get out of the fire station, haha. I tried to continue listening but my knees were shaking, I was losing focus and I felt the sweats coming on. I quickly excused myself and ran off to the nearest patch of bush, quickly squatted and like Harry (in Dumb and Dumber when he’s in Jasper on the toilet after mistakenly taking laxatives), I was off like horses at a race fresh out of the gates. Hahaha It gets better… I got bit in the temple by a giant beetle, scratched my legs on thorns, and best of all….. NO TP!! OHH the joy of using freshly picked tall grass and its' non absorptive capacity. Hahahahahahaha
Enough of grossing you out. It was intended for a laugh, hope it served it’s purpose well. I MUST STOP EATING ROADSIDE ROASTED MAIZE, BANANA AND CASSAVA ROOT!!! Apparently it has taken me several times to realise this. It's just soooo tasty.
I think that is a good note to end on. Will be much much more to post on in the next coming days. Will continue to relay thoughts as I reflect on things and break down experiences/gleanings.
Wish you all an amazing weekend.
Hope you are well
Peace and Love
The landscape and scenery along the way was simply breathtaking. So nice to get out of the city and breath in some fresh air, looking to the horizon to see as far as the eye can go, clear beautiful African Skies, low lands with Elephants grazing on Palm Tree Fruits, Baboons and Monkeys roaming the roadsides for food that people throw them, seeing the immense brute power and force of the Nile River crashing over boulders, leaping over waterfalls, Hills upon hills lush with extreme diversity in plant life, tree species, birds and soil types, thatch roof huts with amazing homestead farming, goats roaming the streets and villages, Cows with huge horns dictating the flow of traffic, mothers and children carrying 100L water hugs (sometimes 2) on their heads---It was beautifulll!!!!
I think the hardest and most revealing (in terms of grander gleanings) part of the trip (which occurred very early on in the travels) was driving through 3 IDP (Internally Displaced People) camps new GULU and seeing people who after 20 years of struggle and readjustment to life after war were fullys returning to regular life, things were picking up, people were returning to their villages and re-establishing themselves. The ones that have stayed are rebuilding agriculture in the region, re-establishing strong markets, rebuilding regional trust, and re-mending the beauty of the human fabric of life. There was such hope, such joy and happiness on the peoples faces and in the interaction with one another. It astounds me, the healing process is long and with many obstacles along the way, but at the same time I think it brings about a sort of social enlightenment in a sense. It now solidifies a strong yearning and initiative for long lasting peace. An evolving of society towards true communal values on a broader scale. This at least is the course I am seeing develop and the path that many humans are craving in this time of global strife, war, poverty, hunger, disease, climate change. We are all yearning for change, for a sense of real, stable and truthful global peace and cooperation. The people of Uganda and the strength they have had on this path should inspire us all…
On to the rest of the trip, Nebbi was incredible. Every day I would meet Martin and George (UCA Field Officer in Nebbi, who just had his 6th child today, yay!!) at 8:30, we would stop by the field office and then head out for 2-3 hour jdrives into the middle of nowhere. Not knowing where I was headed or who I would meet always made the ride even more enticing. Our first day we headed up to Zeu.. Have never seen such views. The road to the village was through the Highlands of Nebbi, basically cradling the ridge of a series of mountainous hilly ranges, down side streets, up 70 degree slopes (have no clue how the driver did it. Felt like the car was going to tip backwards, travelling down random paths fit for a bicycle (needless to say with the windows down I got smacked in the head quite the many times with 8 foot high grass. Haha).
Looking out the window to the right are endless hills, covered in pockets of thatch roof huts, sunlight lighting up the coloration in the hillside (deep green grass and trees from the heavy rainfall this year, deep browns covered in arrays of crops) It almost looked as if the hills were covered with decorative quilts. Looking out the window out the left, and you see hills of the Democratic Republic of Congo, until the horizon broke. Arriving at the first village I met Mary, quite the entrepreneur. She grows beans, maize, Cassava, coffee, pumpkin, bee hives, cows, goats and chickens, all on different plots that you intricately walk to through secret little paths through the bush. It was an agricultural jungle.. So lovely. Felt like I was in Lord of the Rings, feeling somewhat of a fulfilment to a nostalgic life as a farmer that I have always dreamed about.
The most amazing thing happened, we were walking to see her bee hives (quite a hike down a hill) and it started to pour (full-on monsoon style). It was incredible walking in the middle of nowhere, on the side of a huge hill, overlooking the valleys and hills, with soulful rain pouring down. I wish I had a lamp post (I would have jumped around singing “I’m singing in the rain”).. I had the biggest smile on both my heart and face. It was liberating and thrilling, it livened my spirit and calmed my soul, it reconnected me to so many feeling and thoughts of openness and enjoying the simple things in life that we have been blessed with on earth (like getting to smile when it rains. Here it is a blessing, for it allows for good harvests, back home we complain because it might mess up our hair. Hahaha).
Second , third and fourth day were spent on similar trips, but all to different regions of Nebbi, all different soil types, topography and crops that farmers were growing. I saw farmers who produced Mangoes, Oranges, Lemon, Okra, A variety of tree species in makeshift tree nurseries, banana, and other crops (really too many to type). All had different sloping plots, all different soil make ups, different environmental impacts (from too much rain, to to little, from fertile rich black loamy soil to sandy and rocky, you name it agriculturally it was there.) Enough of agriculture, as I am going to have several more posts to relay the learning’s and observations of that side of things later on….
Jump to a rather funny, but embarrassing story (got to share these ones. They’re what make traveling such a great time). I was out about 3 hours in the middle of nowhere, and then down a super long random side road, again further into the middle of nowhere. I was tentatively listening to the agricultural wisdom of Orambi (a farm manager in one of the project sites). He was telling me about pruning, propagating and grafting exotic mango cuttings onto native mango root stalks (was really interesting to me), but boom, bam, blurp, slush, slosh, owwweeee I got a sudden stab in my stomache-- the most explosive, nuclear meltdown diarrhea arrived on the scene, and like a firefighter, it was rushing quickly to get out of the fire station, haha. I tried to continue listening but my knees were shaking, I was losing focus and I felt the sweats coming on. I quickly excused myself and ran off to the nearest patch of bush, quickly squatted and like Harry (in Dumb and Dumber when he’s in Jasper on the toilet after mistakenly taking laxatives), I was off like horses at a race fresh out of the gates. Hahaha It gets better… I got bit in the temple by a giant beetle, scratched my legs on thorns, and best of all….. NO TP!! OHH the joy of using freshly picked tall grass and its' non absorptive capacity. Hahahahahahaha
Enough of grossing you out. It was intended for a laugh, hope it served it’s purpose well. I MUST STOP EATING ROADSIDE ROASTED MAIZE, BANANA AND CASSAVA ROOT!!! Apparently it has taken me several times to realise this. It's just soooo tasty.
I think that is a good note to end on. Will be much much more to post on in the next coming days. Will continue to relay thoughts as I reflect on things and break down experiences/gleanings.
Wish you all an amazing weekend.
Hope you are well
Peace and Love
9/12/08
Lovely September
So I kind of just felt like having a purge of info on what Is going on here. Will be just a quick update on some things. Hope it doesn’t come off as boring. Haha
Things have been great here the last couple of weeks (and generally overall). I just returned from a workshop out west in Mbarara, where we studied the Swedish development tool of using study circles as a means to participatory, grassroots development. Very simple concept of collectivizing people who have identified a shared problem/issue/need, identifying capacities, resources, knowledge within the group to address the issue, coming up with a formal study plan, and hosting weekly meetings on various micro topics to the larger issue on approaches to alleviating the issue at hand. It is extremely cost effective and extremely effective in planting the seeds for the development of cooperatives, and savings and credit unions. I have loved learning the approach and did it ever come with perks. Haha Got to stay at a lovely 5 star resort hotel in the middle of no where, with 45 really great field staff and partners of the Uganda Cooperative Alliance. It was a nice chance to meet the field officers in my project areas and to identify some solid needs that the cooperatives are identifying, so now I can get going on developing some training materials for my trips to the West Nile (up north along the Sudanese/DRC borders). The drive out to Mbarara was so beautiful. We drove through a national park (didn’t see any exotic animals), but got to see lots of small farms, huge plots of banana and kasava farms, beautiful hills and valleys, and the ultimate joy of holding on a pseudo-“Oh Shit” handle (ie, the headrest of the seat in front of me) as the crazy (Daloo) bus driver sped down pot-hole infested roads, swerving to dodge speed bumps, and oncoming cars, buses, trucks, bicycles, motorcycles all driven by other Daloo drivers. Felt my stomach in my throat many times, but it was all part of the adventure. Nothing like being crammed in the back row of a bus, where there should be a row of 5 people (in this case 8) sitting like sardines in a can (a very small can. Haha) I loved it though, shared lots of laughs with the fellow passengers, had the cutest baby cry every time she looked at me (I guess seeing your first white person can be a little daunting at times. Haha), and played peekaboo with the kids on the bus. Didn’t know such a simple game could last so long and keep kids engaged. That is something I love here, how children can stay engaged and enjoy the simplest activities, and be so extremely crafty in making toys from the most random material (my favourite is the old bicycle tired and stick push.. Tried my hand at it.. Kids laughed as I couldn’t get into the groove of making it roll for very long.. Kids love how high I can throw things, so they bring me all kinds of stones, tires, balls, leaves (yeah those didn’t go too high when I threw them. Haha) and all sorts of other things)..
I will head up to West Nile this Monday. Really looking forward to it. The village supposedly has 1 street, 1 hotel, 1 TV, and it’s always football on the screen. Can’t wait. This is exactly the opportunity I have been waiting. To escape the city, see the beautiful countryside, meet as many people as I can, connect with the community members (trainings don’t start until about 3PM as farmers will be working their land in the morning. I am full planning on picking up a hoe, or learning to plow with an oxen and get involved in the farming with them. Hoping this will strengthen our relationships as well and foster trust). Was supposed to go up to Nebbi and Arua, but turns out I will be spending the whole week in Nebbi, which I really like as I can fully get engaged in some activities there, get to know the field officer really well, and form a closer relationship with the cooperative members to foster more inclusive trainings down the road when I return again. I am thinking I will focus on water and soil conservation as well as tea composting this time. Going to do a ad hoc needs assessment of the needs and see if there is more I can focus on as well. Will keep you updated on how the trip goes and will hopefully be able to post some pics (seems to take about 30 minutes to post 1 picture here. Painstakingly slow, but it makes you appreciate the internet more).
Tis it for now.. Hope you all are doing well and loving life..
Will report again soon
Love you lots
p.s- Happy Birthday Lynne. Have an incredible day!!!
Things have been great here the last couple of weeks (and generally overall). I just returned from a workshop out west in Mbarara, where we studied the Swedish development tool of using study circles as a means to participatory, grassroots development. Very simple concept of collectivizing people who have identified a shared problem/issue/need, identifying capacities, resources, knowledge within the group to address the issue, coming up with a formal study plan, and hosting weekly meetings on various micro topics to the larger issue on approaches to alleviating the issue at hand. It is extremely cost effective and extremely effective in planting the seeds for the development of cooperatives, and savings and credit unions. I have loved learning the approach and did it ever come with perks. Haha Got to stay at a lovely 5 star resort hotel in the middle of no where, with 45 really great field staff and partners of the Uganda Cooperative Alliance. It was a nice chance to meet the field officers in my project areas and to identify some solid needs that the cooperatives are identifying, so now I can get going on developing some training materials for my trips to the West Nile (up north along the Sudanese/DRC borders). The drive out to Mbarara was so beautiful. We drove through a national park (didn’t see any exotic animals), but got to see lots of small farms, huge plots of banana and kasava farms, beautiful hills and valleys, and the ultimate joy of holding on a pseudo-“Oh Shit” handle (ie, the headrest of the seat in front of me) as the crazy (Daloo) bus driver sped down pot-hole infested roads, swerving to dodge speed bumps, and oncoming cars, buses, trucks, bicycles, motorcycles all driven by other Daloo drivers. Felt my stomach in my throat many times, but it was all part of the adventure. Nothing like being crammed in the back row of a bus, where there should be a row of 5 people (in this case 8) sitting like sardines in a can (a very small can. Haha) I loved it though, shared lots of laughs with the fellow passengers, had the cutest baby cry every time she looked at me (I guess seeing your first white person can be a little daunting at times. Haha), and played peekaboo with the kids on the bus. Didn’t know such a simple game could last so long and keep kids engaged. That is something I love here, how children can stay engaged and enjoy the simplest activities, and be so extremely crafty in making toys from the most random material (my favourite is the old bicycle tired and stick push.. Tried my hand at it.. Kids laughed as I couldn’t get into the groove of making it roll for very long.. Kids love how high I can throw things, so they bring me all kinds of stones, tires, balls, leaves (yeah those didn’t go too high when I threw them. Haha) and all sorts of other things)..
I will head up to West Nile this Monday. Really looking forward to it. The village supposedly has 1 street, 1 hotel, 1 TV, and it’s always football on the screen. Can’t wait. This is exactly the opportunity I have been waiting. To escape the city, see the beautiful countryside, meet as many people as I can, connect with the community members (trainings don’t start until about 3PM as farmers will be working their land in the morning. I am full planning on picking up a hoe, or learning to plow with an oxen and get involved in the farming with them. Hoping this will strengthen our relationships as well and foster trust). Was supposed to go up to Nebbi and Arua, but turns out I will be spending the whole week in Nebbi, which I really like as I can fully get engaged in some activities there, get to know the field officer really well, and form a closer relationship with the cooperative members to foster more inclusive trainings down the road when I return again. I am thinking I will focus on water and soil conservation as well as tea composting this time. Going to do a ad hoc needs assessment of the needs and see if there is more I can focus on as well. Will keep you updated on how the trip goes and will hopefully be able to post some pics (seems to take about 30 minutes to post 1 picture here. Painstakingly slow, but it makes you appreciate the internet more).
Tis it for now.. Hope you all are doing well and loving life..
Will report again soon
Love you lots
p.s- Happy Birthday Lynne. Have an incredible day!!!
9/2/08
Deliberations of Liberation
This is a day of beauty. One where the world looks a brighter place. Blazened with the joy of humanities new breath, people look to one another for a shared expression of what we are all longing for in our hearts; Love. Opening hearts to one another, rebuilding trust between people, families, communities, and Countries, is the only inevitable possibility for humanity to move towards. How long now have we been digressing and putting this planet in peril; war, disease, poverty, HIV, Gender violence, climate change, mass environmental pollution and degradation. This is no longer something we can leave in the hands of governments and organizations to solve. These issues take a global initiative. One where people place power back in themselves, get over the giant list of differences that separate us apart and seek to distance us, and look to the similarities upon the horizon that we all share. The blatant truth is that humanity is truly at a pinnacle point. A point where climate change is already heavily underway, the planet has passed its’ carrying capacity and multiple economic, political, and social issues are on the rise.
All things return to the goodness in ones heart. This is one thing all of humanity shares, deep down we are all inherently good. We all came into this world pure hearted. We must believe in our hearts that we can work towards this state again. Deep within our hearts and minds we each have the conscious intuitive choice that needs to be listened to more often. An intuition that if we shared our hearts more often and opened our eyes to shared experiences and similarities as citizens of (wo)mankind, we would develop lasting solutions collectively.
Shared love starts with a seed. A shared smile upon passing someone, the heightened energy exchange, only to continue on through another shared smile with another. These subtle exchanges of open expression are boundless in their chain reaction impact. Trickling through person after person like a free flowing stream. One thing I have come to love in Uganda (is similar in India) is how men will hold hands with male friends, and the same goes for women. It is something so nice to see; this very simplistic approach to heightening connection between one another.
We must foster this new age of love today. In the long run it is all that truly matters, and a lasting thing we can leave behind for the new generations of humanity to come. These planted seeds of small scale open expression, sprout into trees of hope, deep, strong roots strengthening the ties that connect our hearts, our minds, our actions. From these trees bear fruit of the sweetest essence of potential; a potential so bountiful, it feeds the hearts of all of humanity. The more trees of hope that are planted, the more fruit that is shared within humanity, only to further plant the seeds for future trees to continue to expand through mankind; a forest of love and hope replanting across the globe.
Today, if you are reading this, reflect on what is needed in humanity, and what approaches we can take to further foster love.
8/28/08
These Hips Don't Lie
Had such an amazing time last night. A friend of mine, Justine, had invited me a couple of days ago to go take Latin dance lessons. I was debating it for days, thinking if these white boy hips would really fancy taking on Latin movement. I usually stick to the unstructured, hop around type of dancing, and have had no formal training in any styles. I decided why not give it a try. Am I ever glad that I did. It was to start at 6PM, and I showed up on the dot, to nearly hear the sound of crickets chirping....haha the place was empty, and the class consisted of the cutest 75 year old dance instructor (he used to compete Internationally in Latin dance competitions) and 3 other students. In the crowd of employees at this bowling alley (and for some reason there were plenty), I stuck out like a sore thumb, trying to get my hips to move to some cha cha. Before I knew it, more and more people piled in, and sure enough we had a group of 15-20 people all giving it their all. My inhibitions dropped, and I found myself liberated on the dance floor, sweating buckets, and letting out tons of laughs and smiles. Was partnered up with Prosy, a lady with quite a charm and nack for Latin dancing. She taught me all she knew and before we knew it, we were creating our own little spotlight, taking huge strides all around the dancefloor, bumping into other couples, over exaggerating the Latin flare, flipping of the head, over extension of the legs, stiff upright posture, I felt Latino. Aai Yaai Yaai!!! We learned the Cha Cha, the Waltz, the Jive and finished up with some Salsa. Before I knew it I was mixing styles, and acting like a goof, again, onlookers cracking up that a Mzungu was strutting his stuff.
Movement is a wonderment, and now that my hips have been initiated, they crave for next Wednesday to roll around, so I can let lose once again. It is taking these chances, stepping outside of what we normally conform to in our regular life activities, and embracing something new that really livens the soul. I love it!
Movement is a wonderment, and now that my hips have been initiated, they crave for next Wednesday to roll around, so I can let lose once again. It is taking these chances, stepping outside of what we normally conform to in our regular life activities, and embracing something new that really livens the soul. I love it!
8/27/08
Kampala: A wonderful Place to Live
Streets bursting at the seams, traffic creating a chaos of cars unbound by lanes, motorcycles and bikes swerving in and out between cars, filling any gaps and space that exist on the roads, cars spewing thick clouds of black smoke, police in their berets whistling loudly with arms waving hastily as if it is going to make things move any quicker, large hordes of Matouke (plantain) traveling on bikes and trucks, grassy nooks with ladies selling bags of groundnuts and the most random trinkets, Matatu (small buses) with the coach screaming locations loudly from the window, Maraboo storks awkwardly flying (looks like a mix between a giant vulture, a pelican and a flamingo) perching themselves on the most fragile branches, people dressed in the most professional business attire, zebra crossings (cross walks) with people dodging traffic like we’re part of the frogger game, security guards everywhere you look sporting a rifle, shotgun or AK47, lovely red dust everywhere, pot holes and speed bumps making any transport journey a case for minor whiplash… hahah. this is Kampala. A place I have truly come to love. A place where the chaos seems to bring me to a deeper state of peace, where with all the hustle, bustle and busyness, one can detach and observe. It is exciting, enthralling and forever a surprise around each corner. I wish I could better articulate and describe this place. This place of ultimate beauty and excitement.
On a completely random note, I may be going up to visit projects next week for a week or so. I will be traveling up to Nebbi and Arua (check out a map on google image). It’s my hope to become acquainted with the field officers, further understand the implementation side and where things can be improved/where new opportunities exist, get a deeper view of the beauty of the countryside and the hearts of the people, do an ad hoc assessment of the impact of tractor use on soil compaction, nutrient leaching, sub soil fungal networks, biodiversity, erosion, etc through interviews with non project farmers (currently the project wants to pilot tractor use to upscale production, but an environmental assessment has not been done and thus this is on hold. I really would like to know the impacts and be able to advise whether tractor use would be viable both economically and environmentally for the given context). Should be an exciting trip and will be really nice to get outside the city and see the Uganda I have been told so highly about.
Will keep you updated on things.
Love ya lots
On a completely random note, I may be going up to visit projects next week for a week or so. I will be traveling up to Nebbi and Arua (check out a map on google image). It’s my hope to become acquainted with the field officers, further understand the implementation side and where things can be improved/where new opportunities exist, get a deeper view of the beauty of the countryside and the hearts of the people, do an ad hoc assessment of the impact of tractor use on soil compaction, nutrient leaching, sub soil fungal networks, biodiversity, erosion, etc through interviews with non project farmers (currently the project wants to pilot tractor use to upscale production, but an environmental assessment has not been done and thus this is on hold. I really would like to know the impacts and be able to advise whether tractor use would be viable both economically and environmentally for the given context). Should be an exciting trip and will be really nice to get outside the city and see the Uganda I have been told so highly about.
Will keep you updated on things.
Love ya lots
8/26/08
African Leaders
Today was an interesting day at the office. Right before lunch a colleague (john) came in and talked to another colleague (Rohna), and somehow the issue of the government came up in discussion between the three of us.
John made a very convincing point. He said "the ongoing success of dictators maintaining power in Africa is to get people to sing Poverty." He was saying that governments preach about ending poverty, yet it is in their grander plan to keep poverty expanding, for the more you allow poverty to exist, the more people begin to become desensitized to it, and for people living in poverty to just accept poverty as a reality, something that can't be changed, something that people dont have rights to rise above out of. He followed much of the maltheusian theory of the hierarchy of needs, stating that while people are in poverty, all they can think about is their basic needs and can't begin to think about collectively demanding democracy, and trying to change the current system. He said leaders strategically keep poverty to maintain their dominance. He was also telling me of the opposition towards the leader. That if he stepped down from power, he would not be able to stay in the country as he would have a death warrant with most people and people would beat him in the streets, his family would denounce him, etc. It has always confused me about these scenarios, that if so many people dislike oppose a leader, and were being neglected by the system, why an undercurrent hasn't arisen. John was also talking about the fact that even if you don't believe in the leader, you must always support them and become part of the majority. If you don't you face the possibility of being picked up by secret men and never seen again. This was a shock to me. In my head I truly thought Uganda was much more liberal. Freedom of speech here is like walking on egg shells. Newspapers poke and jab at the government, but in a way that isn't too controversial and is just behind the lines of overstepping. They really fear being arrested and detained. I really had no idea things were this way. I guess arriving here at first, I saw things as very liberal, and there were political cartoons so I figured freedom of speech was a given right, but hearing John talk about needing to really watch what you say and where you say it really suprised me. He was telling me that since Uganda has taken on the British system of rule, whoever is in power is not accountable to anyone for anything, and cannot be called out on issues.
We also got talking about how divided Uganda is from region to region and between tribes. He was saying that the number one issue of not having a national identity among the tribes is the lack of a universal language. Yes English is present, from the ties of colonialism, but tribal dialects and languages are still the majority of languages used outside of kampala.
In my head all of this is a blur. My thoughts on universalism and citizenship to mankind, all being one are by no means an accepted notion here. what is good is that things are ripe to spread this message, and spread it I shall!!! :)
Anyways just wanted to share what I have gleaned on the political system here so far. I know this is just a surface glance at the system, but it is what I have hear thus far. Will try and get more info and learn more about it through discussions with people.
Will relay more info soon.
Lubs ya
John made a very convincing point. He said "the ongoing success of dictators maintaining power in Africa is to get people to sing Poverty." He was saying that governments preach about ending poverty, yet it is in their grander plan to keep poverty expanding, for the more you allow poverty to exist, the more people begin to become desensitized to it, and for people living in poverty to just accept poverty as a reality, something that can't be changed, something that people dont have rights to rise above out of. He followed much of the maltheusian theory of the hierarchy of needs, stating that while people are in poverty, all they can think about is their basic needs and can't begin to think about collectively demanding democracy, and trying to change the current system. He said leaders strategically keep poverty to maintain their dominance. He was also telling me of the opposition towards the leader. That if he stepped down from power, he would not be able to stay in the country as he would have a death warrant with most people and people would beat him in the streets, his family would denounce him, etc. It has always confused me about these scenarios, that if so many people dislike oppose a leader, and were being neglected by the system, why an undercurrent hasn't arisen. John was also talking about the fact that even if you don't believe in the leader, you must always support them and become part of the majority. If you don't you face the possibility of being picked up by secret men and never seen again. This was a shock to me. In my head I truly thought Uganda was much more liberal. Freedom of speech here is like walking on egg shells. Newspapers poke and jab at the government, but in a way that isn't too controversial and is just behind the lines of overstepping. They really fear being arrested and detained. I really had no idea things were this way. I guess arriving here at first, I saw things as very liberal, and there were political cartoons so I figured freedom of speech was a given right, but hearing John talk about needing to really watch what you say and where you say it really suprised me. He was telling me that since Uganda has taken on the British system of rule, whoever is in power is not accountable to anyone for anything, and cannot be called out on issues.
We also got talking about how divided Uganda is from region to region and between tribes. He was saying that the number one issue of not having a national identity among the tribes is the lack of a universal language. Yes English is present, from the ties of colonialism, but tribal dialects and languages are still the majority of languages used outside of kampala.
In my head all of this is a blur. My thoughts on universalism and citizenship to mankind, all being one are by no means an accepted notion here. what is good is that things are ripe to spread this message, and spread it I shall!!! :)
Anyways just wanted to share what I have gleaned on the political system here so far. I know this is just a surface glance at the system, but it is what I have hear thus far. Will try and get more info and learn more about it through discussions with people.
Will relay more info soon.
Lubs ya
8/22/08
Be open to the Universe
I can't even describe the emotions I feel today in what has unraveled. A lot of the time I try to remain open and in tune with what the universe can bring. Open to the positive things that arrive in life, the negative things, the challenges, and the moments for personal growth to evolve. I went for a long walk today, deep breathing along the way, keeping my eyes open for people who gave off a certain energy that I was drawn to and really trying to open up and connect with these people as I walked. Met a lady randomly walking in my direction and got her to teach me some Luganda. Exchanged some laughs, smiles and a shared joy for living in Kampala. Continued on my way and asked a lady (Connie) with her child (Miracle) "wasuze otya" (literally how was your sleep, as a greeting to ask in the morning). She didn't understand me as she had just recently moved to Kampala from Tororo (an eastern city in Uganda). She had told me about her life and moving here, some of the frustrations of leaving her husband and how people in her neighbourhood won't mind their business. I guess in many cases with society being so communal here, it is very common for people to constantly be in others business. She told me it has been a dream of hers to move to Canada, where one can live alone and not be judged, and can just live out their life in peace and happiness. she told me of her joy of trying to build a new life and striving to find happiness in the struggles she is facing. Connies heart was wide open, and the connection I felt with her, I have not experienced anywhere else here. It was as if I was talking to my own mother. There was an extreme level of comfort, trust, openess and beauty in the way we were talking and exchanging energy and her eyes remained in contact with me the whole time (a rare thing to find here. Eye contact is much less directive here). I got introduced to her daughter Miracle, and through interacting with her, really noticed she was not doing well and was extremely sick. I asked Connie if she was sick, and she informed me that she believed that Miracle had Malaria, and had a high fever for days and has been very out of it, staring into space. She was telling me of the burden this has placed on her, as she truly thought it was malaria, and had no means of paying for treatment or doctors visit. The look in Connie's eyes was of true fright, a look of sorrow at the thought that it may be a reality that she loses her daughter. I suggested we walk to a clinic together and get things checked out, offering to pay for things if it would help her. We went to the clinic and it did turn out that she was positive for Malaria. The doctor informed me of the severity of the situation. My heart purged all these emotions that this serendipitous moment arrived out of nowhere, where I truly could make an impact in the lives of a small family that really desperately needed help. We got Miracle the treatment and prescriptions she needed and got a bed net to prevent further problems down the road. Hugging is very much a cultural taboo in public in Uganda, and almost never between man and woman. We left the clinic and Connie broke out into tears and gave me the biggest hug I have ever gotten. It was a moment of blessing, a moment where the universe brought two souls together where a real positive, immediate impact could be made on the gift of life. This is a moment I will never forget. A moment I will cherish for life, and a time where it really hit home that the smallest action can have the biggest impact imaginable.
We parted paths shortly after and our gaze continued to connect as the distance between us extended. Her smile, and the open expression of her heart will always stay with me.
Words really can't describe what today's gift means to me.. :)
We parted paths shortly after and our gaze continued to connect as the distance between us extended. Her smile, and the open expression of her heart will always stay with me.
Words really can't describe what today's gift means to me.. :)
8/20/08
Football Frenzy
Today was by far the most fun I have had so far in Kampala. It was a blessing.. After work I got home and wanted to go out for a walk and check out the neighbourhood some more. Right next to our house, where there is usually a security guard training camp, I noticed a big group of kids playing football (soccer), around 8 of them.. These kids were so full of spirit, so in love with the game, so interested that a Mzungu knew how to play. I had the absolute time of my life. I can't remember all their names, but Heillery, Peter, Samuel, Amwani, Assan, and Ian were soo soo cute. I have found my after work activity. They said they play everyday from 4-sunset, so if I can make it, I will be there everyday. I was looking for a chance to get to know some neighbors better, and the doors have fully opened. Onlookers and parents laughing their heads off at my weak football skills, kids lifting their arms above their head screaming "OHHH Mzungu" when I would miss the ball, or get the ball stolen. hahaha The passion, innocence and playfullness in a childs eyes, with the curiousity, freedom from bias or judgement and the love of just playing and having fun, makes connecting with children an ultimate bliss. I forgot all else. Forgot about the problems in the world, forgot about everything else in life but that exact moment. I was in the now, was full-heartedly connected with the children, and in that I found a level of happiness I have not yet experienced here. I have found my engagement. One of the fathers Tony Braxtons was heavily interested in making a Canadian friend. When I told him I was Canadian, his eyes lit up like wildfire. I am really hoping to form a close relationship with Tony and these kids. See a side of life and Kampala I have never seen before..... a side I want to see much much more of!!!
:)
8/18/08
Droplets Daze
When it rains here, it literally pours buckets. It is the most soothing sound of heavy, Forest Gump style raindrops pounding away at metal sheeted roofs. It is rhythmic and melodic in form; natures’ wondrous symphony and percussion playing for all the onlookers that seek to escape its wetness. This is no light rain, this is torrential, monsoon style rain and just when you thought it couldn’t get any heavier, it seems to pick up in intensity, banging even louder as it hit’s the roof. I have heard that the rain dictates life here. That if it is raining, all activity for the day is an instant right off. Meetings get cancelled, arrangements for lunch literally call for a rain cheque. In Kampala, this phenomenon is year round, unpredictable and oh so exciting. I love it when it rains. The change in pressure, temperature and mood all leads one to the wondrous craving of curling up under a blanket on the couch with a good book or a movie. I love to sit and close my eyes and just listen; listen to the quiet voice of plants letting out a tiny sigh of relief that they can be replenished and grow further to the skies. There is nothing more soothing, comforting and relaxing then the sound of rain. Even the smell of a rainy day is relaxing.
So on this rainy day, I hope your spirits are soothed too, and that you find time to take in the relaxing feelings that accompany natures beautiful gift.
So on this rainy day, I hope your spirits are soothed too, and that you find time to take in the relaxing feelings that accompany natures beautiful gift.
8/17/08
Inevitable Horizon
Thoughts of the highest contemplation, emotions flowing with mountainous sensation,
Democratic intention, falling to the wayside at the onset of wars mention.
Bullets flying past baby’s bottles,
the jarheads’ adrenaline junkie fix at full throttle,
and all for resource gain,
for expanding the hegemonic geopolitical plane?
It’s a measureless shame,
and it’s all of humanity to blame.
Human rights violations at an all time peak,
so many silenced by force, with no voice to speak.
Liberties taken away with oppression as the beasts force,
a timeline of humanities history shows consistent remorse.
Each voice must be heard, for this world belongs to all,
Governments ears need to open, leaders listening to humanities call.
The golden age is nearing its long awaited appearance,
but in your own heart you must usher in its’ clearance.
Must embrace the loving nature that humanity has always intended to live,
must open the gates to your heart and soul and continuously strive to give.
Give in any way possible, for the nature of giving multiplies,
paying it forward lifts the veil of illusion from our own eyes.
We are on a path that needs positive reinforcement,
one that embraces unified cooperative endorsement.
One that places idealism at the forefront of visionary progression,
one that acts on realism, leading to widespread positive succession.
Each positive action forming the foundation for the golden age,
Beauty growing out of scars, universal love taking center stage.
Keep hope at the forefront of your outlook and intention,
And a world of peace and prosperity will gain its’ retention.
The stepping stones are being laid, the path is clearly paved,
The seeds of change have sprout, an action many have craved.
A new dawn is arising, the horizon of possibility is breaking,
Share of your heart, and take part in the World Peace staking.
Go now in peace and find yourself in a world positively evolving,
Spin your world of hope with others, and the reaction will continue revolving.
Love you all lots!!
Democratic intention, falling to the wayside at the onset of wars mention.
Bullets flying past baby’s bottles,
the jarheads’ adrenaline junkie fix at full throttle,
and all for resource gain,
for expanding the hegemonic geopolitical plane?
It’s a measureless shame,
and it’s all of humanity to blame.
Human rights violations at an all time peak,
so many silenced by force, with no voice to speak.
Liberties taken away with oppression as the beasts force,
a timeline of humanities history shows consistent remorse.
Each voice must be heard, for this world belongs to all,
Governments ears need to open, leaders listening to humanities call.
The golden age is nearing its long awaited appearance,
but in your own heart you must usher in its’ clearance.
Must embrace the loving nature that humanity has always intended to live,
must open the gates to your heart and soul and continuously strive to give.
Give in any way possible, for the nature of giving multiplies,
paying it forward lifts the veil of illusion from our own eyes.
We are on a path that needs positive reinforcement,
one that embraces unified cooperative endorsement.
One that places idealism at the forefront of visionary progression,
one that acts on realism, leading to widespread positive succession.
Each positive action forming the foundation for the golden age,
Beauty growing out of scars, universal love taking center stage.
Keep hope at the forefront of your outlook and intention,
And a world of peace and prosperity will gain its’ retention.
The stepping stones are being laid, the path is clearly paved,
The seeds of change have sprout, an action many have craved.
A new dawn is arising, the horizon of possibility is breaking,
Share of your heart, and take part in the World Peace staking.
Go now in peace and find yourself in a world positively evolving,
Spin your world of hope with others, and the reaction will continue revolving.
Love you all lots!!
8/15/08
Passion fruit
Had a rather funny conversation with my roomie Aafke about passion fruit. As we sat there spoons digging into seeds that seemed to be covered with sugary phlegm, we decided upon passion fruit being the oyster of fruit. Hard exterior shell, gucky inside that resembles what my brother and I call lung butter; thick, stringy mucus. While this isn’t the most pleasant topic to write on, I do believe it deserves attention. The passion fruit, small and unnoticed, I believe to be a much underappreciated member of the fruit family. If oysters are to be praised for their deliciousness (all else about them is somewhat disgusting), then I think passion fruit should also gain a prestigous position on the podium of fruit. :)
Completely random, this I know, haha, but I promised Aafke I would make a posting about this.
Promise to write something more profound soon. ;)
Love ya
Completely random, this I know, haha, but I promised Aafke I would make a posting about this.
Promise to write something more profound soon. ;)
Love ya
8/13/08
The Goldfish and Me
Living like a goldfish in a fishbowl with no rocks, caves or fake plants to hide among, I feel like I’m continuously being observed. It’s as if there is one giant neighbourhood watch program underway and I have been scribed as the main suspect. I know this is a sheer reality of living abroad, being a Mzungu minority, but at the same time it can feel extremely uncomfortable from time to time. I was just thinking today while walking, that I felt like some strange animal on display at a Zoo. Walking the streets, eyes continuously staring in curiosity, children screaming “Muzungu Muzungu” (white white), being asked why my skin is this colour, so ugly, why is it not brown like everyone else. While it is for the most part playful in nature, I now feel through these experiences, that I now wholeheartedly understand the inner emotional crippling that racial discrimination causes.
I passed one young man, and said hi to him and smiled, asking how his day was going. He stared at me with the most hostile eyes, burning me deeply to the core. A look of hatred, a look of disgust at my presence in his space. We maintained contact for a good 15 seconds and his face and energy has found itself engraved in my mind. It is a frustration when you want to just be yourself and be open and expressive and you meet a wall of assumptive preconceptions from others. It may be he was just having a bad day and my friendliness was an annoyance, or it could have been a deeper racial stereotype of me just being another white visitor to his native land, a link to a colonial past that still has scars in the minds of a painful history. It is these kinds questions that float through the mind of a visitor to a distant land. I am however, noticing that this sort of contemplation is pointless and serves me no purpose but to further cloud an already confused mind. Haha However, they are thoughts that are hard to avoid, in a time when one is trying to find their place, their position, their sort of niche in a new land.
I wonder if it will ever be possible for this fish to jump outside of the bowl!!! Only time will tell..
I passed one young man, and said hi to him and smiled, asking how his day was going. He stared at me with the most hostile eyes, burning me deeply to the core. A look of hatred, a look of disgust at my presence in his space. We maintained contact for a good 15 seconds and his face and energy has found itself engraved in my mind. It is a frustration when you want to just be yourself and be open and expressive and you meet a wall of assumptive preconceptions from others. It may be he was just having a bad day and my friendliness was an annoyance, or it could have been a deeper racial stereotype of me just being another white visitor to his native land, a link to a colonial past that still has scars in the minds of a painful history. It is these kinds questions that float through the mind of a visitor to a distant land. I am however, noticing that this sort of contemplation is pointless and serves me no purpose but to further cloud an already confused mind. Haha However, they are thoughts that are hard to avoid, in a time when one is trying to find their place, their position, their sort of niche in a new land.
I wonder if it will ever be possible for this fish to jump outside of the bowl!!! Only time will tell..
8/12/08
The Beauty of Life
My heart feels like an open canvas, letting the random strokes and colours of life paint the canvas as it progresses, each day revealing a little bit more vibrancy and detail to the larger picture of life. Each stroke coming with a different purpose, some much deeper and darker, representing the subtle hardships that we go through on a day to day basis, and other lighter strokes, rich in wholesome colour signifying the onset of a lesson learned or a passionate truth discovered, or the depth of having an engaging, somewhat enlightening conversation with a fellow human being. This canvas is endless, continuously evolving, and forever becoming more and more beautiful as we sail ourselves down the river of life.
A river greatly represents oneself, and ones path here on Earth. A river is formless, moving in one general direction, but able to branch off into streams and tributaries, each lending itself to new directions, new possibilities, unbounded and undiscovered territory where ANYTHING is possible. This shapeless, formless, open-directional reality is what makes living so amazing. It’s what makes this very moment in time so special. I am now discovering that when we place a dam on our life, a point in the river where we harbour future directions from freely developing, we find ourselves in a state of stillness, of motionless life, where the amazement of the world becomes ordinary, where excitement turns to drab, where ones ability to look outside oneself becomes crippled. I am excited to break free of my subconscious dams that have kept me in a state of clingy comfort, and to go boundless into the open, hoping that my river leads me to the vast depths of the limitless ocean of life and the universe beyond.
As I sit here, sniffling away my flu, chugging back copious amounts of cough syrup, bails of Kleenex stretching the landscape of my room, I pause in great thanks for the world around us. The intricacy of life is mind boggling. Take a moment to look inside yourself, look around the room where you currently are, peer outside a window, take a long heartfelt gander at the world in your presence. Think just how intricate, detailed and in clockwork everything is. It is a constant wonder how any of this is possible. How humanity has come so far in innovation that I can sit here in Africa with my thoughts, and relate them to the rest of the world with a click of a button. It is an ever fascinating time to be alive and an extremely significant time to take what we have been given and truly shape ourselves and the world around us into the most caring, collaborative, humble place we can create.
Random Thought!!!!
I was thinking that what we truly believe is the world that is shaped in reality. It has been said by Darwin that the survival of the fittest is the reality of nature and is inherent in all aspects of life. This universally shared notion of reality maintains us being pegged against one another, lacking a sense of cooperative sharing on a universal scale. Humanity is constantly plagued by unending self interest, by a burning desire to benefit oneself over the needs of all those around us. Is this inherent, or has this become reality because of a universally share notion that we have all come to accept? What would the world be like if we all stepped back and gave collaboration, cooperation and sharing a chance. A place where we consistently step outside ourselves and into the lives and needs of others. People may say, “then my own needs wont be met”. But if we were all reaching out to one another, other peoples kind efforts would be meeting our relative needs. It is also important for us to define need in this case. Do we really need all the false illusions that championed marketing campaigns tell us we need to live life? How often do you see people slaving away to make a top notch income, so that they can go buy things that they don’t need in the first place. Does it bring happiness, fulfilment, a greater sense of meaning? We are all part of this vicious cycle, and it is deeply engrained in our minds. No doubt the world would become a brighter place if we rebuilt communities in our midst, placed focus on sharing with one another rather then the fear that has been fabricated to separate us apart. People may say this is extreme idealism, but what is a future without having a positive vision of what we want to become as citizens of this Earth.
May we all begin to wake up,
May we all begin to cooperate,
May we all see the shared benefit of one another,
May we all see that this planet is for ALL, not a select few,
May we all just be…
Sorry for the randomness. Peace and lots of Love
A river greatly represents oneself, and ones path here on Earth. A river is formless, moving in one general direction, but able to branch off into streams and tributaries, each lending itself to new directions, new possibilities, unbounded and undiscovered territory where ANYTHING is possible. This shapeless, formless, open-directional reality is what makes living so amazing. It’s what makes this very moment in time so special. I am now discovering that when we place a dam on our life, a point in the river where we harbour future directions from freely developing, we find ourselves in a state of stillness, of motionless life, where the amazement of the world becomes ordinary, where excitement turns to drab, where ones ability to look outside oneself becomes crippled. I am excited to break free of my subconscious dams that have kept me in a state of clingy comfort, and to go boundless into the open, hoping that my river leads me to the vast depths of the limitless ocean of life and the universe beyond.
As I sit here, sniffling away my flu, chugging back copious amounts of cough syrup, bails of Kleenex stretching the landscape of my room, I pause in great thanks for the world around us. The intricacy of life is mind boggling. Take a moment to look inside yourself, look around the room where you currently are, peer outside a window, take a long heartfelt gander at the world in your presence. Think just how intricate, detailed and in clockwork everything is. It is a constant wonder how any of this is possible. How humanity has come so far in innovation that I can sit here in Africa with my thoughts, and relate them to the rest of the world with a click of a button. It is an ever fascinating time to be alive and an extremely significant time to take what we have been given and truly shape ourselves and the world around us into the most caring, collaborative, humble place we can create.
Random Thought!!!!
I was thinking that what we truly believe is the world that is shaped in reality. It has been said by Darwin that the survival of the fittest is the reality of nature and is inherent in all aspects of life. This universally shared notion of reality maintains us being pegged against one another, lacking a sense of cooperative sharing on a universal scale. Humanity is constantly plagued by unending self interest, by a burning desire to benefit oneself over the needs of all those around us. Is this inherent, or has this become reality because of a universally share notion that we have all come to accept? What would the world be like if we all stepped back and gave collaboration, cooperation and sharing a chance. A place where we consistently step outside ourselves and into the lives and needs of others. People may say, “then my own needs wont be met”. But if we were all reaching out to one another, other peoples kind efforts would be meeting our relative needs. It is also important for us to define need in this case. Do we really need all the false illusions that championed marketing campaigns tell us we need to live life? How often do you see people slaving away to make a top notch income, so that they can go buy things that they don’t need in the first place. Does it bring happiness, fulfilment, a greater sense of meaning? We are all part of this vicious cycle, and it is deeply engrained in our minds. No doubt the world would become a brighter place if we rebuilt communities in our midst, placed focus on sharing with one another rather then the fear that has been fabricated to separate us apart. People may say this is extreme idealism, but what is a future without having a positive vision of what we want to become as citizens of this Earth.
May we all begin to wake up,
May we all begin to cooperate,
May we all see the shared benefit of one another,
May we all see that this planet is for ALL, not a select few,
May we all just be…
Sorry for the randomness. Peace and lots of Love
The excitement of Travel
Traveling is one of the most enriching, eye opening, educational experiences you will encounter, far beyond the reach of any text book, any descriptive novel, any told story. When the mind and body step out of the realm of comfort experienced through living in our own culture, or own social niche, or own enclosed bubble that we call home, we become absorptive like a sponge, become as receptive as an eye to light in the darkness,open to possibility, to random synchronicity, to inner growth and change. An unseen world opens and although we experience "culture shock" as we adapt to the new environmental stimuli, we find ourselves in a place where we can begin to share in differing global realities, further discovering the ultimate truth.
Having the opportunity to live in a developing country again, has reawakened a part of myself that has been shoved deep down within myself, veiled in the falseness of the cushy lives we take for granted in the developed world. Emphasis is placed more on the collective, helping one another, diving into each other lives on a deeper level, much more so then the mainstream individualistic focus of life back home. While this individualistic model may spread with the increasing scope of capitalism and materialism that is taking the globe by storm, for now it is a blessing to be living in a more collaborative society. A society where even greetings take minutes as each party asks the other about the health of their families and things going on in their lives. It is not my intention to seem like I am bashing Canadian or North American "culture", for I do love living in Canada. I do, however wish we could be living in a model, much like that of Uganda..
Enough of that stuff. :) I went to the Baha'i temple the other day.. All I can say is WOW.. The temple was extremely beautiful, not to the size or magnitude of the Lotus temple in India, but so so beautiful with an amazing energy. Kampala is a very loud, busy city, so to get away to a place of peace and quiet and to sit in a temple (no one else around) and pray and meditate, was just what I needed. While praying in the temple, I could almost hear my thoughts echo off of the walls, reverberating peaceful intentions and vibes into the cosmos. if not for the distance, and the terrible road to the temple, I could see myself visiting everyday. Walking the gardens, and getting the opportunity to meet some of the local Baha'i's was just what I needed to feel even further connected to Uganda. Hearing stories of whole villages discovering the faith and coming in the hundreds to convert to this beautiful, inclusive faith brought a smile to my heart.
It consistently amazes me with the constant hardships many Ugandans have gone through in the recent past, how resilient Ugandans are as a people and how inspired they are at creating and maintaining a peaceful society for now and the generations to come... I remember walking past a church on my way to catching a boda to the temple and hearing the passion, enthusiasm and sheer energy coming out of the voices of the parish almost brought me to tears. The energy was something I had never felt before. Again it goes to that true sense of collaboration and cooperation here among people.
I have the flu now and have been bed-ridden for 2 days now. It is quickly making its' way through Kampala and many people are falling Ill. Once I recover I will have more stories to tell as the richness of experiences continue to unfold.
I have to make a 30 minutes presentation next week on incorporating environmental issues into NGO programming and the modalities of doing such. It is going to be a very senior level partnership meeting with CCA, UCA, Swedish Cooperative Centre and a Norwegian organization.Little nervous, but hoping I can pull it off. Wish me luck!!! ;)
Love you all
Having the opportunity to live in a developing country again, has reawakened a part of myself that has been shoved deep down within myself, veiled in the falseness of the cushy lives we take for granted in the developed world. Emphasis is placed more on the collective, helping one another, diving into each other lives on a deeper level, much more so then the mainstream individualistic focus of life back home. While this individualistic model may spread with the increasing scope of capitalism and materialism that is taking the globe by storm, for now it is a blessing to be living in a more collaborative society. A society where even greetings take minutes as each party asks the other about the health of their families and things going on in their lives. It is not my intention to seem like I am bashing Canadian or North American "culture", for I do love living in Canada. I do, however wish we could be living in a model, much like that of Uganda..
Enough of that stuff. :) I went to the Baha'i temple the other day.. All I can say is WOW.. The temple was extremely beautiful, not to the size or magnitude of the Lotus temple in India, but so so beautiful with an amazing energy. Kampala is a very loud, busy city, so to get away to a place of peace and quiet and to sit in a temple (no one else around) and pray and meditate, was just what I needed. While praying in the temple, I could almost hear my thoughts echo off of the walls, reverberating peaceful intentions and vibes into the cosmos. if not for the distance, and the terrible road to the temple, I could see myself visiting everyday. Walking the gardens, and getting the opportunity to meet some of the local Baha'i's was just what I needed to feel even further connected to Uganda. Hearing stories of whole villages discovering the faith and coming in the hundreds to convert to this beautiful, inclusive faith brought a smile to my heart.
It consistently amazes me with the constant hardships many Ugandans have gone through in the recent past, how resilient Ugandans are as a people and how inspired they are at creating and maintaining a peaceful society for now and the generations to come... I remember walking past a church on my way to catching a boda to the temple and hearing the passion, enthusiasm and sheer energy coming out of the voices of the parish almost brought me to tears. The energy was something I had never felt before. Again it goes to that true sense of collaboration and cooperation here among people.
I have the flu now and have been bed-ridden for 2 days now. It is quickly making its' way through Kampala and many people are falling Ill. Once I recover I will have more stories to tell as the richness of experiences continue to unfold.
I have to make a 30 minutes presentation next week on incorporating environmental issues into NGO programming and the modalities of doing such. It is going to be a very senior level partnership meeting with CCA, UCA, Swedish Cooperative Centre and a Norwegian organization.Little nervous, but hoping I can pull it off. Wish me luck!!! ;)
Love you all
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
