I just want to post a little addendum to my previous post: I think I need to make it clear to my readers that I have not resolved to completely shut myself off from Burkinabé society. Indeed, that's impossible, because you're culturally integrating here in every single thing that you do, whether that be taking a taxi, haggling over garlic at the marché, or squatting over your latrine. You're meeting and interacting with people here constantly. These interactions are, by and large, wonderful and fulfilling. However, there come times for EVERY Peace Corps Volunteer when they need a release from all the integration and keep to themselves for awhile and let the stress level mellow out. That's what I've been doing for the past week or so since I posted my last entry. The cultural exchanges are still going on constantly, but I'm making sure to take extra opportunities to be by myself (or with other PCVs), watch some quality American films like Chopping Mall, and eat au gratin potatoes (thanks, Mom and Dad).
So thanks again for your concern, everyone. I'm in Ouagadougou right now, where I'm fulfilling my duties as one of Peace Corps' AIDS Task Force representatives. Later today, we'll be meeting with members of a fantastic British organization called Coaching for Hope to discuss potential collaborative projects.
Oh, and my beard's still around:
That's all the news I have for now. Catch you on the flipside!
4 comments:
Don't have a Whitney Houston style freakout! Crack is whack.
I'm certainly nowhere like Burkino Faso, but I know it's very unsettling trying to integrate into a new culture. It's a ton easier in Hong Kong because there's an expat culture in place already. Anyway don't get down on yourself. You're not Burkinabe so so what if you can't be comfortable fitting in completely. You've got a right to be annoyed at annoying things, and sometimes the nicest people really can be THE most frustrating. Starting work will be helpful. Work offers a small community.
Nothing is exotic for long if you see it everyday. At least at work you'll have a chance to be old news soon.
Dear Sad Sally
I've been reading and I'm sorry I lacked on the commenting side. I sent you another letter, but it may never get there because I question myself over how much postage I put on it. It's fabulous if you do get it.
Until then, I love you. You are VERY HAIRY. VERY CHUCK NORRIS. Ha. XOOX. I will send you more letters soon!
I wish there was something I could do to help out other than the occasional package (hint!hint!) but I can't. I'm sure it's hard and I know you can tough it out.
One of my neighbors just left a couple of months back to head to Botswana for a year to work with the AIDS Project there.
That school is huge compared to standards in my rural area. There are only about 400 students in our local high school.
I love au gratin potatoes.
The beard is looking really nice, too.
I know I'm commenting late. I'm catching up on my Google Reader subscriptions.
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