Monday, June 20, 2011

Day 18 in Ghana

I stare at the clock in the bottom right corner of my laptop and see the time is 7:13PM, this clock is still set to the time it is in Lexington, KY, so the current time in Tamale is 11:14PM. I am writing at a time where I usually get ready for bed because the internet here is about as reliable as the wind blowing my 8th eyelash on my left eye. Probable. So I figure I should write before I lose my connection again!
It's hard for me to believe I have been in Ghana for almost three weeks now. Time seems to be moving so quickly. I am still working with the Zo-Simli students on speech writing. The topic is for them to give speeches on what they would like to see improved at their school. I secretly wished I could give my own speech to an audience of individuals of anyone who would listen... Once again, considering all of the factors that help students learn from an American perspective. The air conditioning, cushioned chairs (it's easy to squirm a lot while sitting on hard wood), new chalkboards, new desks, bathrooms, more books for the library, transportation system, computers, a place to eat lunch such as a cafeteria, and the list goes on. However, I am sensitive to the fact that I am looking through my lens through an American perspective. A place where the students' comfort and resources are the main priority. It seems as if many of the girls are discussing in their speeches some of the above mentioned ideas. So this poses the question: How does one propose ideas of improvement without the incredible stench of an American way of doing things? Food for thought, and believe me, I am still "chewing" on this one.
I find that some of my best experiences in Ghana come about when I take walks with some of my Ghanaian peers into town. The interactions I have with these people are the most wonderful encounters. Whether it be a seamstress, a cook, a drummer, a child, or a goat, I always seem to walk away with something different whether it be a simple thought or a smile.