Responding

I was asked “How do you reconcile the great disparity you see there with what we have here?” I really think this will be a question I’ll really begin to process when I get home and am bombarded with the materialistic/overconsumption cultural that dominates life in the United States. My experience here will shape lifestyle and purchasing choices that I make. Obviously, living here makes me realize that I can get by on so much less than what I use in the States. But, its implementing a living less lifestyle that becomes much more of a challenge.

Coming here as a part of a program with a purpose (teacher exchange) really helps me feel much more positive about my experience. For example, if I were simply a tourist and not being active in empowering those around me, I’m sure the above mentioned concerns would bother me more, but I know that I’m doing something about it (regardless, of the effectiveness of what I’m doing).

It is hard to see the poverty and the effects of war, but I don’t feel depressed or hopeless. I do see hopeful moments and people acting with vision that helps keep me from feeling depressed or hopeless. But more than that is having faith and hoping in spite of what I see or don’t see. And, knowing that I won’t stop being an advocate and seeking to empower (even though I don’t know the shape that will take in the future) is probably what is the most helpful. I can be compassion and I have a life to live out that doesn’t have to be all for me, I can use it to think for others. I know I can’t eliminate all the effects of 23 years of war by the LRA . But, wherever I am and whatever I’m doing I can choose good and I can choose love (in whatever shape that may take).

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My aunt made a comment to me that some teachers in the States focus on EOCs, not student needs, and that lets to a pass-the-test mentality and rote learning would be their game plan. I agree with that in the States. I think here that’s the case because it’s the system and so ingrained in teachers and they don’t know anything different. Also, I think much of it comes from the circumstances of people. For example, for many (and I can’t generalize) teaching is a job, not a passion. This idea is apparent in other aspects of life here. Because of the poverty that exists and the war with the LRA for so long, life has just been about surviving and existing.