I woke up this morning to the first substantial rain we've seen (it was very misty yesterday but beautiful, while we toured the beautiful Kirstenbosch gardens - I filled up my camera and ran the battery out in 4 hours). I also woke up to cats howling at each other, which I haven't heard in years!
Today reminds me that those who are reading this are probably lucky to have a roof over their heads that doesn't leak, enough food that they can eat what they want, and more importantly the opportunity to do something better for themselves and their family. It has been very interesting meeting with people involved in many different levels of community services and improvement - and I am struck by the strong, formalized planning, communications and implementation processes that they have in place - meanwhile there is a second tier where conditions are so bad that it is nearly impossible to actually make any long term plans (for the residents themselves and for the government as well).
Last night we were asked what our best moment of the trip was. Each project and activity we have visited thus far, has had a different impact on me, so it is hard to make a comparison. Some give me ideas for my own profession at home; others show how we can make a difference in the lives of those who are the most fragile in our societies. This is a package tour, folks!
Last night I finally was able to sleep for a good 6 hours. This trip has been so busy, to the point that the days seem to run together and I think that we have packed in at least a months' worth of activities into a week's time. That's Rotary - perhaps combined with South African - passion and efficiency at work! It's so energizing to be with our team, and on this fast-paced trip. They also keep us well-fed (though on a European schedule) so that keeps our engines running all day and well into the night.
The rainy weather today may force us to take a more leisurely approach to things. We'll see how the day gets improvised!
Please take care,
BJ
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