Dear people:
There seems to be some kind of misconception in Americaland that I am "saving africa". I am not, for the record, saving anything or anybody let alone a whole continent. (I also wish to express clearly to those who insist on calling me one: I am not a missionary. At least, not in the common conotation of the word.) From my conversations and letters, it has occured to me that some of you "over there" seem to think living here-- for just two years by the way-- makes me some kind of a hero. And Im having a hard time figuring out why.
My only guess is that it has something to do with giving up the easy life of the one percent of the worlds population that I was born into. The one I did nothing to deserve.
You know, sometimes I still miss things like pizza and going to the movies and easy internet access. But I got to make a choice to live without those things. People here have lived without those things forever and none of them have to take a pill to sleep at night.
Also, for your information, I am the richest person in my village. I dont like it, but its true. Though I try to relate to how people really live here, I will never really be able to. People have sent me care packages that cost more than people here make in 6 months. I have free medical care. Im not suffering. So dont pity me for what I "gave up" and think thats some kind of an accomplishment.
What continually baffles me is the disparity of opinion.
People here know Im not a hero... They think Im an idiot.
After all, the nassara doesnt know how to do anything herself: cook on a fire, hand wash clothes, find the bread at market. She cant speak Moore, make to, or even tell someone what sickness their baby has.
The villagers are not even sure I can actually DO anything. They have to constantly help me with things. And I do mean constantly.
Its people like me, who get their money stolen and throw up yogurt into their backpack on a bus are the reason "nassara yellé" ( white people are problems) is said so often in my village its practically a Moore proverb.
I like to think I'm somewhere inbetween the extreemes. But honestly? Most days I remain more of an idiot. Just figured I'd let you guys in on the truth.
