Monday, September 15, 2008

There's no combination of words I can put on a blog post

This weekend, preschool teachers from around Lesotho gathered in the capital of Maseru to compete in sports. We all met at the Lesotho Convention Center and paraded our way through the streets to the field of play. All were dressed in their districts' colors (mine being green and white) singing spirit songs and dancing through the metropolis. We couldn't afford a proper escort, so we just took up part of the road and prayed not to get hit by the approaching cars. In the States, a large crowd obstructing the flow of traffic would make me irate; the drivers and passersby joined in the songs and cheered our wave of color, becoming especially enthusiastic when their home district passed. Our field was next to the taxi rank, a place I avoid unless absolutely necessary. Crowded, smelly, (relatively) dangerous. The field was mostly dirt, rocks, and maybe some broken glass so here's hoping I didn't contract some kind of communicable disease. I competed with my district teachers in events like a zig-zag race, cross hopping (similar to hopscotch), a traditional relay, and the main event: soccer. It reminded me of larger five year olds playing with a crowd of people around the ball and a goal transpiring after a pin ball like game between the clutter of players in front of the posts. There were great passes and plays too though. And handballs and whiffs. We played three games (1-1-1). Regardless I had a fabulous time and did well; my teachers carried me off the field and two men gave me 7 rand ($1) for the good show. Didn't know how I felt about that, but I'm a poor PCV so appreciated the funds. My district, Leribe, claimed the trophy for this year. Very proud.
To celebrate, I attended a PCV party at the beautiful Irish Ambassador's residence; thanks to them for hosting! It was a blast. Quality drinks, exquisite company, a swing from a big tree, good food. The education group before mine is preparing to leave and I am quite sad about that. They trained us and equipped us with the skills we use daily. Including dish washing technique and the best way to prepare rice and beans, and along with the technical education skills. I wish them all the best in the future and will miss them terribly. You guys are amazing.
Things at site are great. I'm adjusted, integrated into my community, creating a busy but do-able schedule. The weather's getting warmer although it hasn't rained in months. The dry weather is invading my respiratory system causing lots of coughing and sinus problems. It could be a tropical disease like giardia though so I'm thankful Lesotho is immune to those conditions.
On a personal note, my heart goes out to the Frerichs family. I'm thinking of you all and hoping you find comfort in this difficult time. Marsha was an amazing, warm and strong, vibrant woman and will be missed by all who knew her. Take care all.

6 comments:

Wonder Twin said...

I bet the dirt/rock/broken glass combo put a hamper on your slide tackling...Glad to hear about the 1$. You must be on your way to be a professional soccer player now.....

katie said...

You're awesome. Good work.

mamajens said...

I'd have paid $2 to see it - so very proud of you, little one.......

mamajens said...
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Dave said...

what's this i hear about a giant diamond found in Lesotho? I'm sure you have some down time here and there... invest in a shovel and get crackin'!

Jane said...

Nora, I agree with Dave, find out where that Giant Diamond Mine is ASAP!

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/26819593/?GT1=43001

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