I was listening to the radio a few hours ago and caught myself completely engaged in some words spoken on this show. So I did some research and found the excerpt I was looking for. These are three writings by Unknown Authors about Belief. Everyone should read them and see what you can take from them.
Beliefs–Author Unknown.
“I believe –that we don’t have to change friends if we understand that friends change.
I believe–that no matter how good a friend is they’re going to hurt you every once in a while and you must forgive them for that.
I believe–that true friendship continues to grow, even over the longest distance. Same goes for true love.
I believe–that you can do something in an instant that will give you heartaches for life.
I believe–that it’s taken me a long time to become the person I want to be.
I believe–that you should always leave loved ones with loving words. It may be the last time you see them.
I believe–that we are responsible for what we do–no matter how we feel.
I believe–that either you control your attitude or it controls you.
I believe–that regardless of how hot and steamy a relationship is at first, the passion fades and there had better be something else to take its place.
I believe–that my best friend and I can do anything or nothing, and have the best time.
I believe–that sometimes the people you expect to kick you when you’re down, will be the ones to help you get back up.
I believe–that sometimes when I’m angry I have the right to be angry, but that doesn’t give me the right to be cruel.
I believe–that it isn’t always enough to be forgiven by others. Sometimes you have to learn to forgive yourself.
I believe–that no matter how bad your heart is broken, the world doesn’t stop for your grief.
I believe–that you shouldn’t be so eager to find out a secret. It could change your life forever.
I believe–that your life can be changed in a matter of hours by people who don’t even know you.
I believe–that even when you think you have no more to give, when a friend cries out to you, you will find the strength to help.
I believe–that the people you care about most in life are taken from you too soon.”
Believe–Author Unknown
“I believe that all life is connected
I believe that human consciousness is not confined to the physical being
I believe that beauty is life displaying the essence of its true being.
I believe that love is the act that tries to bring beauty into being
I believe that love is the glue and the bridge.
I believe that real heroes in life are battlers and the givers, and those that are both are extra special
I believe in the worth of little things–in smiles, in hugs, in laughs, in ’well done!’ ‘You’re good,’ ‘Thanks’
I believe that when I have enjoyed myself, I should tell those who have made it so
I believe in the joy in a sparkling eye
I believe that the whole is much bigger than the sum of the parts
I believe in being one’s own best friend
I believe in facing each day anew and leaving behind the troubles and mistakes of yesterday
I believe that one of the best things I can do for others is to show them I believe in them
I believe all women are treasures
I believe in helping people up
I believe that the worth of my life will depend on how I have loved and laughed, cared and shared and not on the length of my years or the balance in my account
I believe that no matter what my circumstances, I can succeed, for success is how I face life
I believe that if I do not give my best, I cheat only myself
I believe that fortune favors me much more when I have a goal
I believe in balance and harmony, that at some time during the day it is important to rest and be still and enjoy the moment
I believe everyone is somebody and somebody is everyone.”
Writing by an Unknown Author
"I wish for you…
Comfort on difficult days, Smiles when sadness intrudes, Rainbows to follow the clouds, Laughter to kiss your lips, sunsets to warm your heart, Gentle hugs when spirits sag, Friendships to brighten your being, Beauty for your eyes to see, Confidence for when you doubt, Faith, so that you can believe, Courage to know yourself, Patience to accept the truth…”
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
People in my life
Today's one of those days that has reminded me of a harsh reality - that our world has SOME truly ignorant and disrespectful people. However, it also brings to mind the blessings of true friendship. I am grateful more than ever before for having been introduced to each person in my life. Every relationship built - whether it be briefly shaking hands with someone and sharing a smile, or chatting for 3 hours over coffee about heartfelt issues - has meaning and purpose. Every person who has entered my life has helped me, inspired me, changed me, and taught me.
It's times like today, when my ears, eyes, and mind are exposed to how cruel the world can be, that I can look at the people around me and be thankful that my true friends would never intentionally disrespect a fellow human being...a fellow brother or sister. It helps to renew that hope that with great friends and people like them still alive in this world - we CAN and WILL change it for the better. This world we live in, we live in together, it's EVERYBODY'S home, for now. Why not just treat everyone you meet with the same respect you'd like in return?
With our lives taking on such busy schedules, we forget to thank those important people for stepping in and just being themselves - their AMAZING selves! The friendship you give someone is a true gift and can mean the world to them and you would never know how much good you've done. So here's a huge shout-out to EVERYONE who's entered my life...whether it was a brief encounter, or an extended journey - Thank you! I truly appreciate all the advice, the support, the reality checks, the pep-talks, the shoulders to lean on, the jokes that make my stomach and cheeks hurt, the ideas, the experiences, the prayers... NEVER STOP! You've made me stronger and wiser. Thank you.
A special thank you to some incredible, awe-inspiring, extraordinary, fabulous, far-out, adventurous, and spectacular people that have recently entered my life and consequently lifted me up to enjoy life with them. I like to call them my "HOMIES" - you know who you are. This group of people who've given me so much more that I would have dreamed for friendship to be, truly beleive in unconditional love. The generosity, the care, the smiles, the laughs, the inclusiveness, the honesty, the uniqueness of every individual, their talents, their strengths, their weaknesses, their wise words, their not-so wise words... ALL of that, packed together in a group of people who I hope I can inspire and help, as much as they have touched me.
Thank you.
It's times like today, when my ears, eyes, and mind are exposed to how cruel the world can be, that I can look at the people around me and be thankful that my true friends would never intentionally disrespect a fellow human being...a fellow brother or sister. It helps to renew that hope that with great friends and people like them still alive in this world - we CAN and WILL change it for the better. This world we live in, we live in together, it's EVERYBODY'S home, for now. Why not just treat everyone you meet with the same respect you'd like in return?
With our lives taking on such busy schedules, we forget to thank those important people for stepping in and just being themselves - their AMAZING selves! The friendship you give someone is a true gift and can mean the world to them and you would never know how much good you've done. So here's a huge shout-out to EVERYONE who's entered my life...whether it was a brief encounter, or an extended journey - Thank you! I truly appreciate all the advice, the support, the reality checks, the pep-talks, the shoulders to lean on, the jokes that make my stomach and cheeks hurt, the ideas, the experiences, the prayers... NEVER STOP! You've made me stronger and wiser. Thank you.
A special thank you to some incredible, awe-inspiring, extraordinary, fabulous, far-out, adventurous, and spectacular people that have recently entered my life and consequently lifted me up to enjoy life with them. I like to call them my "HOMIES" - you know who you are. This group of people who've given me so much more that I would have dreamed for friendship to be, truly beleive in unconditional love. The generosity, the care, the smiles, the laughs, the inclusiveness, the honesty, the uniqueness of every individual, their talents, their strengths, their weaknesses, their wise words, their not-so wise words... ALL of that, packed together in a group of people who I hope I can inspire and help, as much as they have touched me.
Thank you.
Sunday, September 23, 2007
I want...
The people I consider safe are my Mom, my Dad, and Royston - my family. I know that my safety and happiness is exteremly important to them. I cannot begin to express in words how thankful I am to them for the support they have given me throughout my life. If I could have dinner with two people dead or alive, they would be J.B Lobo (my mom's father), and Mary D'Souza (my dad's mother). Two incredible people who I did not get to spend much time with and whose wisdom and knowledge I'd like to witness for myself. Royston (my brother) is my go-to guy here on earth. Jesus is my hero.
[The above is an exercise I was asked to do before my trip to Kenya - I believe that questions similar to the ones above are important to think about when you decide to begin a journey of self-exploration. It's sort of a starting point. You look inside yourself and ask yourself "Who am I?". You look at the people closest to you and identify them. Ask yourself WHY you picked them? Think about the people you'd like to learn from. WHY them? Who is that person you ALWAYS turn to for help, or to share that funny story with, or to talk about an issue dear to your heart? Who is your hero? How do you define what constitutes a 'hero'? Everyone's going to have a different definition]
My goal is to go on another trip like the one to Kenya, every year - but to a different place each time.
I want to travel to India, East Asia, South America, Europe, Australia, and more of Africa.
I want to work with children with special needs. The looks on their faces when they succeed at something is PRICELESS...however big or small their task is.
I want to expose my friends and family to my goals and the issues I care about.
I want to live more actively as a Christian. My trip to Kenya definately helps me start, but I want to bring it home with me everyday, and take it to work with me everyday.
I want to complain less, and work harder
I want to capture and remember every smile I made happen
I want to absorb as much of our planet's beauty and share it with others
Reflect upon who you are, who you want to be, commit yourself to something and have faith that you alone can make it happen. Nothing's better than saying, "I DID IT!"
Peace n' Love,
- Falon
[The above is an exercise I was asked to do before my trip to Kenya - I believe that questions similar to the ones above are important to think about when you decide to begin a journey of self-exploration. It's sort of a starting point. You look inside yourself and ask yourself "Who am I?". You look at the people closest to you and identify them. Ask yourself WHY you picked them? Think about the people you'd like to learn from. WHY them? Who is that person you ALWAYS turn to for help, or to share that funny story with, or to talk about an issue dear to your heart? Who is your hero? How do you define what constitutes a 'hero'? Everyone's going to have a different definition]
My goal is to go on another trip like the one to Kenya, every year - but to a different place each time.
I want to travel to India, East Asia, South America, Europe, Australia, and more of Africa.
I want to work with children with special needs. The looks on their faces when they succeed at something is PRICELESS...however big or small their task is.
I want to expose my friends and family to my goals and the issues I care about.
I want to live more actively as a Christian. My trip to Kenya definately helps me start, but I want to bring it home with me everyday, and take it to work with me everyday.
I want to complain less, and work harder
I want to capture and remember every smile I made happen
I want to absorb as much of our planet's beauty and share it with others
Reflect upon who you are, who you want to be, commit yourself to something and have faith that you alone can make it happen. Nothing's better than saying, "I DID IT!"
Peace n' Love,
- Falon
Final Words on the African Experience
This trip has taken me on a journey which has allowed me to tap into emotions on a new level. The joy and happiness I've experienced during my stay at Salabwek is a different, and more satisfying feeling than anything I've ever felt. I truly understand the power of a smile after receiving countless numbers of genuine smiles from the community.
My eyes that I have struggled to capture truth with in the past, have now seen true beauty in the African landscapes as well as in each child's face; true gratefulness in each welcome received from the community; true love shared between my group as visitors and each community member as we worked alongside in partnership toward the same goal.
I have been extremely humbled by my experience in Kenya, and I would encourage everyone to take risks like I did, to explore your world, experience it, and share it with others.
Peace n' Love,
- Falon
My eyes that I have struggled to capture truth with in the past, have now seen true beauty in the African landscapes as well as in each child's face; true gratefulness in each welcome received from the community; true love shared between my group as visitors and each community member as we worked alongside in partnership toward the same goal.
I have been extremely humbled by my experience in Kenya, and I would encourage everyone to take risks like I did, to explore your world, experience it, and share it with others.
Peace n' Love,
- Falon
A lil' bit of Africa - Part 3
Here the final part of my journal entries while in Kenya
June 2, 2007 (In Salabwek)
Sitting here on top of this small mountain we've hiked up to. The view is sensational. The breeze is so fresh & clean. It puts you in a whole different world of your own. I find myself falling in love with this country more each day. There is something special about being amidst God's natural gifts that are untouched and uncorrupted by humans, that gives me a sense of joy and hope that our world still has a chance at preserving its beauty.
A prayer seems so fitting right now. The silence is sometihng I am going to miss.
This opportunity to reflect on changes I want and need to make in my life is great. I can think so much more clearly. I want to take risks and speak about what I feel. I want the world to know that I love them, that I will make a difference, that I will leave it slightly if not a lot better after I leave it. I make this promise today, right here, to take it upon myself to be the change I want to see in the world.
June 3, 2007 (Maasai Mara)
Safari! Wake up was at 5am - NOT COOL! Missed my spot on the lorry and ended up in the jeep. I hate the jeep for the bumps, but we definately ended up having a better view of all the animals because we could drive up closer. We saw a lot of gazelles, impala, wilderbeest, 4 elephants, buffalo, 2 jackals, hippos. Our lion hunts were SO exciting and bumpy! We never found lions but it was really cool being so close - a rush! Bush pee-stops were hilarious - especially being worried that a lion was going to show up. One of the odd hi-lights was losing Raj (the travelling elephant) for 10 minutes. I definately wanted to breakdown and cry (was 2 seconds from doing so). Ming looked like she was going to cry too. We almost stopped the jeep in the middle of the savannah in Kenya to turn back around and look for Raj - a lil' marble elephant. AN IMPORTANT ELEPHANT! Raj was found by Alan in the jeep - PHEW!
So the last 2 hours of my 14 hour day in that jeep was the worst. A migraine hit and I checked out for that night. Worst feeling that whole trip. Everyone was so helpful, and caring...so loving.
June 4, 2007 (In Salabwek)
No migraine this morning! WOOHOO! Our very last build session was sweet! Pushed my last wheelbarrow in Africa (for now). Pouring out that sand onto that mound was... a feeling I can't put into words. Laying that last brick on that school... again, I can't find the words. It something deep inside me, it brings a smile to my face, even a tear. It is SUCH a hard task to walk away from that build site. Everyone clapped, we got our last picture taken as we walked away from the site with our shovels thrown over our shoulders.
Prepping for closing ceremonies went smoothly. I can't beleive we decided on singing "We Will Rock You".
Closing ceremonies was even MORE emotional that opening. The tears just never stopped with anyone. With so little that each family of Salabwek has, they invited EACH one of us individually BY NAME to dance with them and they presented us with a Maasai bracelet of our own. The generosity is incredible. I'll never forget these people. The school teachers also gave us a bracelet each. After our performance (which we ROCKED!), there were some really touching speeches. Pastor Wilson spoke about the children not being able to recover after we leave, and I was more worried about us having separation anxiety.
The Team N. America vs. Team Kenya football game started at 4pm. I played forward the whole game until I got smacked in the face with a goal kick that deflected off some Grade 8 Kenyan's foot! Knocked out... don't remember getting off the field...out of commission the rest of the day. Was woken up in the middle of the night in case of a concussion. Everything's cool!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
That's the END of my Kenya journal entries!
June 2, 2007 (In Salabwek)
Sitting here on top of this small mountain we've hiked up to. The view is sensational. The breeze is so fresh & clean. It puts you in a whole different world of your own. I find myself falling in love with this country more each day. There is something special about being amidst God's natural gifts that are untouched and uncorrupted by humans, that gives me a sense of joy and hope that our world still has a chance at preserving its beauty.
A prayer seems so fitting right now. The silence is sometihng I am going to miss.
This opportunity to reflect on changes I want and need to make in my life is great. I can think so much more clearly. I want to take risks and speak about what I feel. I want the world to know that I love them, that I will make a difference, that I will leave it slightly if not a lot better after I leave it. I make this promise today, right here, to take it upon myself to be the change I want to see in the world.
June 3, 2007 (Maasai Mara)
Safari! Wake up was at 5am - NOT COOL! Missed my spot on the lorry and ended up in the jeep. I hate the jeep for the bumps, but we definately ended up having a better view of all the animals because we could drive up closer. We saw a lot of gazelles, impala, wilderbeest, 4 elephants, buffalo, 2 jackals, hippos. Our lion hunts were SO exciting and bumpy! We never found lions but it was really cool being so close - a rush! Bush pee-stops were hilarious - especially being worried that a lion was going to show up. One of the odd hi-lights was losing Raj (the travelling elephant) for 10 minutes. I definately wanted to breakdown and cry (was 2 seconds from doing so). Ming looked like she was going to cry too. We almost stopped the jeep in the middle of the savannah in Kenya to turn back around and look for Raj - a lil' marble elephant. AN IMPORTANT ELEPHANT! Raj was found by Alan in the jeep - PHEW!
So the last 2 hours of my 14 hour day in that jeep was the worst. A migraine hit and I checked out for that night. Worst feeling that whole trip. Everyone was so helpful, and caring...so loving.
June 4, 2007 (In Salabwek)
No migraine this morning! WOOHOO! Our very last build session was sweet! Pushed my last wheelbarrow in Africa (for now). Pouring out that sand onto that mound was... a feeling I can't put into words. Laying that last brick on that school... again, I can't find the words. It something deep inside me, it brings a smile to my face, even a tear. It is SUCH a hard task to walk away from that build site. Everyone clapped, we got our last picture taken as we walked away from the site with our shovels thrown over our shoulders.
Prepping for closing ceremonies went smoothly. I can't beleive we decided on singing "We Will Rock You".
Closing ceremonies was even MORE emotional that opening. The tears just never stopped with anyone. With so little that each family of Salabwek has, they invited EACH one of us individually BY NAME to dance with them and they presented us with a Maasai bracelet of our own. The generosity is incredible. I'll never forget these people. The school teachers also gave us a bracelet each. After our performance (which we ROCKED!), there were some really touching speeches. Pastor Wilson spoke about the children not being able to recover after we leave, and I was more worried about us having separation anxiety.
The Team N. America vs. Team Kenya football game started at 4pm. I played forward the whole game until I got smacked in the face with a goal kick that deflected off some Grade 8 Kenyan's foot! Knocked out... don't remember getting off the field...out of commission the rest of the day. Was woken up in the middle of the night in case of a concussion. Everything's cool!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
That's the END of my Kenya journal entries!
Thursday, September 6, 2007
A lil' bit of Africa - Part 2
Thanks for taking the interest in reading about my journey in Kenya. These are special memories... I'm happy to share.
May 21, 2007 (In Salabwek)
Our first day building on site. INCREDIBLE! So painful...so worth it! I never thought I could, or would do the things I did today. I shovelled sand, rocks, concrete; I pushed some HEAVY wheel barrows; I lifted 2 bags of cement on my back!!! Let's just say, I felt like a BEAST! LoL! The fwendis (workers) were super helpful and amazing at their work. They did everything with such ease.
After lunch, the day got even better! I've said before that the community is really warm and welcoming. Well today, was the opening ceremonies where we were greeted by 2000 people with singing, clapping, smiles, handshakes... I was brought to tears. The speeches were engaging. One speaker said, "I hope that you will learn from us and in turn, we can learn from you too". Seeing everyone so happy to greet us was almost like poverty's mask during this ceremony. You don't see poverty in their character, you see it in their washrooms, classrooms, physical body (their eyes, teeth, hair) and it's like poverty's mask is lifted all of a sudden and takes you back to why you're there.
The children's performances were sensational! One of the coolest things we got to do was get up and DANCE with the mamas! These are incredibly hardworking women, with so much wisdom. You see it in their eyes, and in their wrinkles. It's SO humbling.
As part of sharing our culture with the community, we prepared a performance which seemed disastrous compared to their singing and dancing. We sang "In the jungle"!
More interesing things happened later. It was time to leave and we got mobbed bu ALL the children. They grabbed our hands, wanted to touch us, smell us, say hello/Jambo, give us high-5's! We took it to the field and all 800-something kids were following and giggling, and asking us to team them songs. Each person from our group was attached to at LEAST 10 kids at one time! SO COOL! Sherwin and Charlotte spoke to a boy who said "It doesn't matter that my skin is black and your skin is white. When we cut our skin, we have the same blood." This coming from a young highschool boy! :)
OKAY! So something EVEN cooler that happened to me. The principal of the school invited me to run the 200m with the boys from that school. And if it wasn't for my ankle, I would have GLADLY accepted to eat some Kenyan dust! So, knowing me, I couldn't hold out too long and I, along with others from the group, ran a relay with the Kenyan boys and girls. I don't know why, but I found this particular experience COOL! I guess it brought back memories of track & field in Dubai. So my team was the only majority N.American team, with one Kenyan named Wesley, who started us off! I ran 2nd, Kevin ran 3rd, and Jenny ran anchor. AND... we didn't come last!!
May 24 (In Salabwek)
...Back at the camp, we got together and laid down in the grass in a circle facing the sky, and we all just took a moment to get lost. I really did... almost forgot where I was...the clouds were slow, and the mood was just slightly visible. I took the deepest breaths and loved it! The burning wood, tree smells, dirt...oddly refreshing! - Ended with a 30-person group hug. Sweet time spent together.
... A lil' homesick today :(
May 25 (In Salabwek)
...The facilitation team missed the wake up call this morning! WOOHOO! 15 extra minutes of sleep!
...The morning build session was wheelbarrowing rocks from pile to pile, and throwing them into the middle for the floor of the school. Easy!
...We did a bunch of activities: To-do lists, time suckers, negotiation, debate: "Kenyan students should do a trip to N. America". Cold showers followed, and then dinner. Theater games at night were SUPER fun!
... So today was pretty chill, but I did find out that what I priorotize at the top of my list (God) is what I spend the least time on, and my job which is at the end of my list, is what I spend the most time on in a day. Sad! But I'm glad I've realized it, and I hope I change things.
May 26 (In Salabwek)
...A LOT of people are sick today, and I feel a bit queasy myself. We checked out the Free the Children permanent center - pretty fancy! We ate lunch there and got a tour and headed off to Monica's for a talk. I felt bad I couldn't pay much attention to her or ask questions 'cause I felt so sick and dizzy in that classroom. Not to mention the mutant sized bee trying to escape through the skylight. I bought 3 bracelets and 2 necklaces from Monica's shop - "The Women's coop". Getting back to the lorry was dreadful. It was about 3 hours of nausea and bumps and swaying. There was lots of throwing up that followed, and then came GRAVOL! WOOHOO! Slept like a baby!
May 27 (In Salabwek)
...Woke up feeling great. Today's a chill day for chatting, recovering, roasting marshmellows, reading, playing, etc. All the sick people are missing/sleeping in. Apparantly last night was punctuated all over with barf sounds! EEW! The healthy tent (Steph, Jane, Lyndsay, Sara) are still going strong! Good for them! They were doing sit-ups while we were throwing up! LOL!
...Being sick makes me miss mom even more :(
... I reaching that point where I really want to talk to someone from home. It would probably bring me to tears but I just want to tell someone about my time here. I know I'll get that chance when I get back home, but... I don't KNOW! So homesick right now. Probably because we're not working today and I have so much free time.
May 28 (In Salabwek)
It's Kenya Day! We have to eat food that an average Kenyan would ear. This is HARD! Especially when you're still kind of sick. The porridge of corn mixture was hard to down in the morning, but I managed :) Lunch was really good - potatoes, lentils and corn. Dinner was hard again with the same corn mixture but in solid form (ugali) and cabbage. NOT the best day for my stomach. It's sad that I ended up being so picky though. I was a little disappointed in myself for complaining about the lack of familiar food. With all the poverty and hungry around me right now I just wish I kept that in mind more often.
...The people here get very little to eat, and the portions we're being served are quite generous for "Africa Day". Kids often wake up, have a cup of tea, walk long distances to school and get one cooked meal at school. For some kids, this is all they will eat in a day.
May 30 (In Salabwek)
...Today's 1st day of teaching my Grade 1 class made me miss work back home. The passion these kids have for learning is great!
...Reading The Alchemist is making me seriously regret not pursuing track & my Olympic dream! I do not want to say that it's impossible, but I would have to start small. I am definately going to train for a triathlon next spring/summer.
...I am SO happy "Phones" was a hit for tonight's facilitation game! Everyone LOVED IT!
May 31 (In Salabwek)
...Today has been indredibly emotional and I cannot bring myself to accept the fact that I have to leave these children. Teaching them today was 100X more fulfilling because it felt like we bonded so much in just 2 days. Bringing us corn from their homes was so generous, given that they have very little to eat themselves.
...They look out for eachother like family. They are so fascinated with the camera flashes! haha! They are so eager to learn our songs, to write answers on the board, to help me if I couldn't get Madame Ann's attention, to turn the book toward me so I could see better. It's incredible, the love they have for eachother, as well as their guests. Leaving them today was not easy.
...I met one girl from my class. Geradine who brought me to tears as I was saying goodbye. In the middle of all the maddness of kids screaming, running, and jumping, she made her way through the crowd, held both my hands and looked up at me. She is beautiful. There was something in her eyes that "Thank you" and without one word exchanged, I looked at her and told her through my eyes and squeezing her hands gently that I'll miss her. And she began to cry and hugged me, and we stood there in the middle of this field feeling that power communication, and... the power of love.
...Separating myself from them at the campsite was sad. I found myself feeling like I just was not doing enough for these kids. I know that their new school is something amazing for them, but it's just still so sad to know that there are so many more kids that need the same help, and more. And It's frustrating that so much some easily to me, and I take it for granted.
...I need to take more action. I need to inspire. I need to make this a bigger part of my life. The time is now... I can start within my soul.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
END of Part 2
Come back for Part 3
May 21, 2007 (In Salabwek)
Our first day building on site. INCREDIBLE! So painful...so worth it! I never thought I could, or would do the things I did today. I shovelled sand, rocks, concrete; I pushed some HEAVY wheel barrows; I lifted 2 bags of cement on my back!!! Let's just say, I felt like a BEAST! LoL! The fwendis (workers) were super helpful and amazing at their work. They did everything with such ease.
After lunch, the day got even better! I've said before that the community is really warm and welcoming. Well today, was the opening ceremonies where we were greeted by 2000 people with singing, clapping, smiles, handshakes... I was brought to tears. The speeches were engaging. One speaker said, "I hope that you will learn from us and in turn, we can learn from you too". Seeing everyone so happy to greet us was almost like poverty's mask during this ceremony. You don't see poverty in their character, you see it in their washrooms, classrooms, physical body (their eyes, teeth, hair) and it's like poverty's mask is lifted all of a sudden and takes you back to why you're there.
The children's performances were sensational! One of the coolest things we got to do was get up and DANCE with the mamas! These are incredibly hardworking women, with so much wisdom. You see it in their eyes, and in their wrinkles. It's SO humbling.
As part of sharing our culture with the community, we prepared a performance which seemed disastrous compared to their singing and dancing. We sang "In the jungle"!
More interesing things happened later. It was time to leave and we got mobbed bu ALL the children. They grabbed our hands, wanted to touch us, smell us, say hello/Jambo, give us high-5's! We took it to the field and all 800-something kids were following and giggling, and asking us to team them songs. Each person from our group was attached to at LEAST 10 kids at one time! SO COOL! Sherwin and Charlotte spoke to a boy who said "It doesn't matter that my skin is black and your skin is white. When we cut our skin, we have the same blood." This coming from a young highschool boy! :)
OKAY! So something EVEN cooler that happened to me. The principal of the school invited me to run the 200m with the boys from that school. And if it wasn't for my ankle, I would have GLADLY accepted to eat some Kenyan dust! So, knowing me, I couldn't hold out too long and I, along with others from the group, ran a relay with the Kenyan boys and girls. I don't know why, but I found this particular experience COOL! I guess it brought back memories of track & field in Dubai. So my team was the only majority N.American team, with one Kenyan named Wesley, who started us off! I ran 2nd, Kevin ran 3rd, and Jenny ran anchor. AND... we didn't come last!!
May 24 (In Salabwek)
...Back at the camp, we got together and laid down in the grass in a circle facing the sky, and we all just took a moment to get lost. I really did... almost forgot where I was...the clouds were slow, and the mood was just slightly visible. I took the deepest breaths and loved it! The burning wood, tree smells, dirt...oddly refreshing! - Ended with a 30-person group hug. Sweet time spent together.
... A lil' homesick today :(
May 25 (In Salabwek)
...The facilitation team missed the wake up call this morning! WOOHOO! 15 extra minutes of sleep!
...The morning build session was wheelbarrowing rocks from pile to pile, and throwing them into the middle for the floor of the school. Easy!
...We did a bunch of activities: To-do lists, time suckers, negotiation, debate: "Kenyan students should do a trip to N. America". Cold showers followed, and then dinner. Theater games at night were SUPER fun!
... So today was pretty chill, but I did find out that what I priorotize at the top of my list (God) is what I spend the least time on, and my job which is at the end of my list, is what I spend the most time on in a day. Sad! But I'm glad I've realized it, and I hope I change things.
May 26 (In Salabwek)
...A LOT of people are sick today, and I feel a bit queasy myself. We checked out the Free the Children permanent center - pretty fancy! We ate lunch there and got a tour and headed off to Monica's for a talk. I felt bad I couldn't pay much attention to her or ask questions 'cause I felt so sick and dizzy in that classroom. Not to mention the mutant sized bee trying to escape through the skylight. I bought 3 bracelets and 2 necklaces from Monica's shop - "The Women's coop". Getting back to the lorry was dreadful. It was about 3 hours of nausea and bumps and swaying. There was lots of throwing up that followed, and then came GRAVOL! WOOHOO! Slept like a baby!
May 27 (In Salabwek)
...Woke up feeling great. Today's a chill day for chatting, recovering, roasting marshmellows, reading, playing, etc. All the sick people are missing/sleeping in. Apparantly last night was punctuated all over with barf sounds! EEW! The healthy tent (Steph, Jane, Lyndsay, Sara) are still going strong! Good for them! They were doing sit-ups while we were throwing up! LOL!
...Being sick makes me miss mom even more :(
... I reaching that point where I really want to talk to someone from home. It would probably bring me to tears but I just want to tell someone about my time here. I know I'll get that chance when I get back home, but... I don't KNOW! So homesick right now. Probably because we're not working today and I have so much free time.
May 28 (In Salabwek)
It's Kenya Day! We have to eat food that an average Kenyan would ear. This is HARD! Especially when you're still kind of sick. The porridge of corn mixture was hard to down in the morning, but I managed :) Lunch was really good - potatoes, lentils and corn. Dinner was hard again with the same corn mixture but in solid form (ugali) and cabbage. NOT the best day for my stomach. It's sad that I ended up being so picky though. I was a little disappointed in myself for complaining about the lack of familiar food. With all the poverty and hungry around me right now I just wish I kept that in mind more often.
...The people here get very little to eat, and the portions we're being served are quite generous for "Africa Day". Kids often wake up, have a cup of tea, walk long distances to school and get one cooked meal at school. For some kids, this is all they will eat in a day.
May 30 (In Salabwek)
...Today's 1st day of teaching my Grade 1 class made me miss work back home. The passion these kids have for learning is great!
...Reading The Alchemist is making me seriously regret not pursuing track & my Olympic dream! I do not want to say that it's impossible, but I would have to start small. I am definately going to train for a triathlon next spring/summer.
...I am SO happy "Phones" was a hit for tonight's facilitation game! Everyone LOVED IT!
May 31 (In Salabwek)
...Today has been indredibly emotional and I cannot bring myself to accept the fact that I have to leave these children. Teaching them today was 100X more fulfilling because it felt like we bonded so much in just 2 days. Bringing us corn from their homes was so generous, given that they have very little to eat themselves.
...They look out for eachother like family. They are so fascinated with the camera flashes! haha! They are so eager to learn our songs, to write answers on the board, to help me if I couldn't get Madame Ann's attention, to turn the book toward me so I could see better. It's incredible, the love they have for eachother, as well as their guests. Leaving them today was not easy.
...I met one girl from my class. Geradine who brought me to tears as I was saying goodbye. In the middle of all the maddness of kids screaming, running, and jumping, she made her way through the crowd, held both my hands and looked up at me. She is beautiful. There was something in her eyes that "Thank you" and without one word exchanged, I looked at her and told her through my eyes and squeezing her hands gently that I'll miss her. And she began to cry and hugged me, and we stood there in the middle of this field feeling that power communication, and... the power of love.
...Separating myself from them at the campsite was sad. I found myself feeling like I just was not doing enough for these kids. I know that their new school is something amazing for them, but it's just still so sad to know that there are so many more kids that need the same help, and more. And It's frustrating that so much some easily to me, and I take it for granted.
...I need to take more action. I need to inspire. I need to make this a bigger part of my life. The time is now... I can start within my soul.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
END of Part 2
Come back for Part 3
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
A lil' bit of Africa! - Part 1
Jambo!
One of the reasons I started this blog was to share my experiences with you, including my thoughts and feelings during each experience. This past May (2007), I embarked on a safari (journey) that changed my life. This 3 week trip in Kenya, Africa put passion and fire back into my life. I returned feeling empowered, ready to challenge myself, ready to conquer anything, ready to change.
To share what I truly felt during my days in Africa, I figure, what better way, than to post a few excerpts from my journal. Some of these are really emotional, some of these are just plain funny (to me anyway :P ). It'll give you a brief run-through of my 3 weeks and the rollercoaster ride of emotions!
May 18 (In Nairobi)
Pretty pooped right now...but today was cool. Woke up to dogs barking and birds chirping. Normally I'd love to wake up to 'sounds of nature' but NOT at 4am after my first sleep in a bed in 2 nights. Got to know the leadership group some more over some games and meals, and a trip to the Giraffe Sanctuary where I made out with 2 giraffes!! They are BEAUTIFUL animals!...
Landing here in Kenya & spending the day outside hasn't shocked me in any way yet. I mean, what I've seen so far is pretty much what I expected of Nairobi. But just being here, away from home, and cut off from a lot of technology is pretty eye-opening. I can do without a lot of what I have at home. Charlotte's right...it does take a special person to leave home and come here to do this work voluntarily. Yes, I AM doing other cool things like safaris, but my main goal and purpose for being here on this trip is to meet the people of these communities and learn about how they live and try to help them get some things they need while still preserving their traditions and their culture.
I'm in a really good place right now. I am mentally prepared for what I will experience when I get to the Maasai Mara and for what I wish to absorb (obviously everything). I'm not too sure I'm prepared emotionally...more so for those "happy-tear" moments. I know not everyone gets an opportunity like this, and I already feel so blessed to be able to learn like this without having gone out to the Mara yet. So, I can't imagine what I'm going to feel one I see those bricks rising up to complete that school, or once I see the children walk to school everyday.
I know on my way to making a change and can't wait to meet these kids and BE a change.
May 19 (In Salabwek)
... We pulled into our site and the greeting from the Kenyan staff was so LOUD! We were so LOUD and happy! Our camp is surprisingly comfortable. I'm so glad Kevin and Charlotte taught us about "Level 3" [refer to post: LEV3L). There clearly is a lot to experience while I'm here for 3 weeks, and with being exhausted at times, it's easy to miss out on things if I'm not LEV3L'ing it ALL THE WAY!
...I can't wait to go back home and describe my time here to everyone and get them aware and excited to so something like this AT LEAST once in their lives!
...The group with me is incredible! They're funny, loving, emotional, athletic, creative, filled with a lot of musical talent, and it's SO cool to be a part of them and share with them.
... I can't thank God enough for continuously bringing amazing people into my life for me to learn from, and share experiences with and teach. So, a lil' Asante Sana to the man upstairs!
May 20 (In Salabwek)
It's the end of a spectacular Day 5! I cannot find the words to express how I feel tonight because all I can do right now is cry tears of...happiness, gratefulness, joy, sympathy...and a whole lot more.
...At the church we were welcomed as warmly as we always are in Kenya and asked to feel at home. The energy and most of all the PASSION in every adult, youth, and child, is mind-blowing.
...There is so much extra material I live with to make my life more "comfortable" and here these 400 people gather as a community every Sunday to truly give thanks and praise God for the good rains they have had and for education they are able to give their kids. How often do we TRULY focus and keep real God-given/natural gifts at our center? We're all blessed with SO many talents that we change the world with everyday - and often don't realize it.
...We played with ALL the little children after our classroom talk. There were SO many kids running around. We taught them games, their favourite was 'Duck Duck Goose'....and MAN did I discover I was out of shape! HAH! And it didn't help that these kids are SUPER-FAST on bare feet! Even the papas were cheering the kids on to pick us to run against so they could get a laugh out of it! LoL! Incredible friendships and laughs! I met a cool kid named Johanna!
...I still can't get over how blessed I am to be in the presence of such people - my group and the Kenyans together. These people as I'm sure exist all over the world need to be an example to all of us to live in the present and enjoy what we already have.
...Like Peter mentioned, a lot of us spend our lives working to find ways to lengthen life and postpone death...but taking a lesson in living for right now, from special people like the Maasai seriously wouldn't hurt. We need to SMILE more, HUG more, tell people we LOVE them more. They're all really easy to do! We need to take a breather once in a while, and not worry so much about money and salary, paycheques, bills, mortgages....and just.... LIVE this LIFE you are given. Live TODAY, 'cause it's a gift! God Bless.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
END of Part 1
More to come...stay tuned.
One of the reasons I started this blog was to share my experiences with you, including my thoughts and feelings during each experience. This past May (2007), I embarked on a safari (journey) that changed my life. This 3 week trip in Kenya, Africa put passion and fire back into my life. I returned feeling empowered, ready to challenge myself, ready to conquer anything, ready to change.
To share what I truly felt during my days in Africa, I figure, what better way, than to post a few excerpts from my journal. Some of these are really emotional, some of these are just plain funny (to me anyway :P ). It'll give you a brief run-through of my 3 weeks and the rollercoaster ride of emotions!
May 18 (In Nairobi)
Pretty pooped right now...but today was cool. Woke up to dogs barking and birds chirping. Normally I'd love to wake up to 'sounds of nature' but NOT at 4am after my first sleep in a bed in 2 nights. Got to know the leadership group some more over some games and meals, and a trip to the Giraffe Sanctuary where I made out with 2 giraffes!! They are BEAUTIFUL animals!...
Landing here in Kenya & spending the day outside hasn't shocked me in any way yet. I mean, what I've seen so far is pretty much what I expected of Nairobi. But just being here, away from home, and cut off from a lot of technology is pretty eye-opening. I can do without a lot of what I have at home. Charlotte's right...it does take a special person to leave home and come here to do this work voluntarily. Yes, I AM doing other cool things like safaris, but my main goal and purpose for being here on this trip is to meet the people of these communities and learn about how they live and try to help them get some things they need while still preserving their traditions and their culture.
I'm in a really good place right now. I am mentally prepared for what I will experience when I get to the Maasai Mara and for what I wish to absorb (obviously everything). I'm not too sure I'm prepared emotionally...more so for those "happy-tear" moments. I know not everyone gets an opportunity like this, and I already feel so blessed to be able to learn like this without having gone out to the Mara yet. So, I can't imagine what I'm going to feel one I see those bricks rising up to complete that school, or once I see the children walk to school everyday.
I know on my way to making a change and can't wait to meet these kids and BE a change.
May 19 (In Salabwek)
... We pulled into our site and the greeting from the Kenyan staff was so LOUD! We were so LOUD and happy! Our camp is surprisingly comfortable. I'm so glad Kevin and Charlotte taught us about "Level 3" [refer to post: LEV3L). There clearly is a lot to experience while I'm here for 3 weeks, and with being exhausted at times, it's easy to miss out on things if I'm not LEV3L'ing it ALL THE WAY!
...I can't wait to go back home and describe my time here to everyone and get them aware and excited to so something like this AT LEAST once in their lives!
...The group with me is incredible! They're funny, loving, emotional, athletic, creative, filled with a lot of musical talent, and it's SO cool to be a part of them and share with them.
... I can't thank God enough for continuously bringing amazing people into my life for me to learn from, and share experiences with and teach. So, a lil' Asante Sana to the man upstairs!
May 20 (In Salabwek)
It's the end of a spectacular Day 5! I cannot find the words to express how I feel tonight because all I can do right now is cry tears of...happiness, gratefulness, joy, sympathy...and a whole lot more.
...At the church we were welcomed as warmly as we always are in Kenya and asked to feel at home. The energy and most of all the PASSION in every adult, youth, and child, is mind-blowing.
...There is so much extra material I live with to make my life more "comfortable" and here these 400 people gather as a community every Sunday to truly give thanks and praise God for the good rains they have had and for education they are able to give their kids. How often do we TRULY focus and keep real God-given/natural gifts at our center? We're all blessed with SO many talents that we change the world with everyday - and often don't realize it.
...We played with ALL the little children after our classroom talk. There were SO many kids running around. We taught them games, their favourite was 'Duck Duck Goose'....and MAN did I discover I was out of shape! HAH! And it didn't help that these kids are SUPER-FAST on bare feet! Even the papas were cheering the kids on to pick us to run against so they could get a laugh out of it! LoL! Incredible friendships and laughs! I met a cool kid named Johanna!
...I still can't get over how blessed I am to be in the presence of such people - my group and the Kenyans together. These people as I'm sure exist all over the world need to be an example to all of us to live in the present and enjoy what we already have.
...Like Peter mentioned, a lot of us spend our lives working to find ways to lengthen life and postpone death...but taking a lesson in living for right now, from special people like the Maasai seriously wouldn't hurt. We need to SMILE more, HUG more, tell people we LOVE them more. They're all really easy to do! We need to take a breather once in a while, and not worry so much about money and salary, paycheques, bills, mortgages....and just.... LIVE this LIFE you are given. Live TODAY, 'cause it's a gift! God Bless.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
END of Part 1
More to come...stay tuned.
Monday, August 20, 2007
LEV3L
Here's one of the most AWESOME things I learned on my trip to Kenya. It's called Level 3 - "LEV3L"
Read it, and you'll feel SO empowered to go out and FULLY live each moment and grasp everything you can from each experience.
Here we go!
"Level 3 is a way of life.
It is the courage to dream, the passion to beleive, and the intensity to act
It is the energy that allows us as ethical global citizens to make the ordinary extraordinary, to change our lives, the lives of others and the world around us.
It resides in each one of us. It redefines limits. It is unstoppable.
Here's a few ways to live at Level 3:
1. Put passion and energy into everything you do. Level 3 is not about output, like the volume of your voice or the number of accomplishments you achieve. It is all about input - the energy and passion that you commit to the people in your life to the issues that are important to you and to the goals that you seek.
2. Give of yourself. Money and kind words are important and valuable, but they are also easy. Your time and your heart are priceless treasures that only you can give.
3. Be different. Participate and contribute in your own distinctive way. Give to the world your unique talents, style and ideas. Do NOT be help back by convention or custom.
4. Make people smile and laugh. Smiles and laughter are the most beautiful and powerfully positive sight and sound, respectively, in our world. They re real-life miracles: they magically wash away sadness, conflict, and stress. All it takes to make someone smile is to smile at them first - a simple, painless, and very powerful way to make someone's day brighter. Develop your sense of humour, and use it often - even in very tense situations. Sing a silly song, make a funny voice, and send a funny e-mail. You will live better and longer, and so will everyone else around you.
5. Laugh at yourself. This skill requires self-confidence, humility, and courage - a powerfully selfless act. When you make yourself the focus of ridicule, that burden is relieved off somoene else who feels it too regularly. Indirectly, you help others to dwell less on their own inadequacies, and to feel more comfortable with themselves and with you.
6. Be vocal and generous with praise and appreciation. "Great job!", "You're awesome", "It's so great having you around", and "I love you" are powerful phrases that make everyone feel good about themselves and about the relationship between you. Use these expressions sincerely and often. If criticism is warranted, be constructive, cautious, and quiet: seek improvement, not blame.
7. Understand people. Know that every person you pass on the street has goals, hopes, and dreams just as you do; everyone you meet has experienced pain, loss, and hardship just as you have; every human being has needs, wants, and emotions of equal value and passion to your own. Be aware of the reasons why people do what they do - very few people do bad things without cause. The key to healing the world is in showing compassion and true understanding to those who do not fit in, and finding room to include them in our common humanity.
8. Build yourself up instead of tearing others down. Search not for the weaknesses of others, but rather seek and develop your own strengths, and to know what you can contribute that is special. Competition is not always necessary - realize that we are all playing on the same team with the same goals, hopes, and dreams.
9. See the beauty in everything. It isn't hard if you try, it isn't always what you expected, and it is always worth the effort.
10. ACT. Talking and planning only goes so far - changing the world requires concrete action. Lead by example - live your message.
11. Life exists for experiences: LOVE and FUN. Don't work all your life to enjoy a few fleeting moments of happiness. Love and fun should always permeate everything you do. Seek them out; without them, life has little true meaning. With them lies your Power of One. With them, you are unstoppable.
AND 9 Principles of Level 3:
Read it, and you'll feel SO empowered to go out and FULLY live each moment and grasp everything you can from each experience.
Here we go!
"Level 3 is a way of life.
It is the courage to dream, the passion to beleive, and the intensity to act
It is the energy that allows us as ethical global citizens to make the ordinary extraordinary, to change our lives, the lives of others and the world around us.
It resides in each one of us. It redefines limits. It is unstoppable.
Here's a few ways to live at Level 3:
1. Put passion and energy into everything you do. Level 3 is not about output, like the volume of your voice or the number of accomplishments you achieve. It is all about input - the energy and passion that you commit to the people in your life to the issues that are important to you and to the goals that you seek.
2. Give of yourself. Money and kind words are important and valuable, but they are also easy. Your time and your heart are priceless treasures that only you can give.
3. Be different. Participate and contribute in your own distinctive way. Give to the world your unique talents, style and ideas. Do NOT be help back by convention or custom.
4. Make people smile and laugh. Smiles and laughter are the most beautiful and powerfully positive sight and sound, respectively, in our world. They re real-life miracles: they magically wash away sadness, conflict, and stress. All it takes to make someone smile is to smile at them first - a simple, painless, and very powerful way to make someone's day brighter. Develop your sense of humour, and use it often - even in very tense situations. Sing a silly song, make a funny voice, and send a funny e-mail. You will live better and longer, and so will everyone else around you.
5. Laugh at yourself. This skill requires self-confidence, humility, and courage - a powerfully selfless act. When you make yourself the focus of ridicule, that burden is relieved off somoene else who feels it too regularly. Indirectly, you help others to dwell less on their own inadequacies, and to feel more comfortable with themselves and with you.
6. Be vocal and generous with praise and appreciation. "Great job!", "You're awesome", "It's so great having you around", and "I love you" are powerful phrases that make everyone feel good about themselves and about the relationship between you. Use these expressions sincerely and often. If criticism is warranted, be constructive, cautious, and quiet: seek improvement, not blame.
7. Understand people. Know that every person you pass on the street has goals, hopes, and dreams just as you do; everyone you meet has experienced pain, loss, and hardship just as you have; every human being has needs, wants, and emotions of equal value and passion to your own. Be aware of the reasons why people do what they do - very few people do bad things without cause. The key to healing the world is in showing compassion and true understanding to those who do not fit in, and finding room to include them in our common humanity.
8. Build yourself up instead of tearing others down. Search not for the weaknesses of others, but rather seek and develop your own strengths, and to know what you can contribute that is special. Competition is not always necessary - realize that we are all playing on the same team with the same goals, hopes, and dreams.
9. See the beauty in everything. It isn't hard if you try, it isn't always what you expected, and it is always worth the effort.
10. ACT. Talking and planning only goes so far - changing the world requires concrete action. Lead by example - live your message.
11. Life exists for experiences: LOVE and FUN. Don't work all your life to enjoy a few fleeting moments of happiness. Love and fun should always permeate everything you do. Seek them out; without them, life has little true meaning. With them lies your Power of One. With them, you are unstoppable.
AND 9 Principles of Level 3:
- It begins with me
- It takes a child to raise a village
- There is no box
- Take a second look...again
- Ask questions and question answers
- 1 + 1 = 3
- Make ordinary extraordinary
- Nothing is impossible
- Act now"
Monday, July 16, 2007
The "Why" question, the "because..." answer
It has been 37 days since I returned from an incredible life-changing journey in Kenya, Africa. I returned a changed person on June 8th, 2007. Just as every experience anyone has ever had, allowed them feel emotions they've maybe never felt before or realized before, this trip sent me on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. It was the most intense three weeks I've ever lived thus far.
I welcome many more similar times, because with all the incredible experiences I've had while in Africa, my eyes have been opened, my heart has grown even bigger, my knowledge has expanded, and I choose to SHARE all of this with the world. I want to BE the change that I have longed to see in the world for so many years.
And this is WHY I started this blog - BECAUSE I want to share my legacy with you, & hopefully inspire you. It's a risk I'm willing to take by sharing some of my personal ideas, feelings and thoughts, if it'll help inspire even ONE person out there - I'll know that I've shared. If I can make even ONE person smile, I'll know that I've made a difference for the better.
So, my friends, this blog shall be filled with my journeys, adventures, experiences, what I gained through them, how I felt during them, as well as some videos and pictures.
I hope you'll come back for more!
Peace n' Love,
- Falon
I welcome many more similar times, because with all the incredible experiences I've had while in Africa, my eyes have been opened, my heart has grown even bigger, my knowledge has expanded, and I choose to SHARE all of this with the world. I want to BE the change that I have longed to see in the world for so many years.
And this is WHY I started this blog - BECAUSE I want to share my legacy with you, & hopefully inspire you. It's a risk I'm willing to take by sharing some of my personal ideas, feelings and thoughts, if it'll help inspire even ONE person out there - I'll know that I've shared. If I can make even ONE person smile, I'll know that I've made a difference for the better.
So, my friends, this blog shall be filled with my journeys, adventures, experiences, what I gained through them, how I felt during them, as well as some videos and pictures.
I hope you'll come back for more!
Peace n' Love,
- Falon
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