We arrived back in Dakar around noon on Saturday to gather, share about our experiences and rest a bit before a few more cultural expeditions.
We all shared, told funny memories, discussed how awesome Senegalese kids are, what stood out the most, but mainly of the way we all felt so welcomed by our host communities. As we went off in pairs to different cities the weekend prior, many were nervous, but the hosts and locals made us feel so welcome, even though to many we could not speak the language, it was like nothing we had all really felt before.
A few things we all agreed on:
1 We all have never had that much tea before! It is so much apart of their culture, as not just a drink but as a time to catch up with your family, extended family and neighbors. But it is also important to get you moving after a large meal, as that food coma definitely sets in. And at the schools, it is so important that it is even a persons job to make the tea for the teachers. So here is few photos of Carmen and myself embracing this throughout the week.
2. Senegal is full of beautiful sounds. People speaking with love and passion in both French and Wolof... and then translated into English for us American teachers. Drumming and singing at festivals. Music from the Mosques play to signal the call the to prayer. Donkeys, goats and sheep voicing their opinion throughout the evening. Taxi's honking at toubabs (the white people) to see if they want a ride. Never a quiet moment.
3. We all have a different story of Senegal and maybe even of Africa as well. And we never could have gotten that without this experience. To really be in the culture, to become part of a Senegalese family and go through their day life. We are all touched, moved and forever grateful. Carmen and I shared a hotel, in Theis with a group of American Soldiers, who completely agreed. They were here helping to train their army and couldn't believe the kindness, generosity and spirit of the Senegalese. There is something about Senegal, I tell you, which makes you feel like they are one of the richest societies.
4. The women here are beautiful! Amazing skin, eyes and charm. And you can't even guess their age because they all look fantastic.
5. We can't wait to share this experience with with our schools and community!
We have 2 more days here, which are busy and will be sad, as we prepare to go home; but Im pretty excited to see my students (and cats!).
