Yesterday our group, or those who were well enough, went to visit three local schools. Although I was very tired, I am glad we went.
School 1
This school was tucked away deep inside the comfort of enormous, old trees. The owner dislikes tourists so she purchased a large area of property outside the busy area of Cabarete. She does not usually let groups tour the school, but she made an exception because she is Canadian. Many of the photos posted were taken at this school. The blue building surmounted with trees. The swings/swingset. The photo of a boy whose injured fingers spoke to me as a paramedic student. And the stockings which hold soap, cups and toothbrushes that many locals consider a luxury.
School 2
Owned by the lady from school 1, the second school was more formal. There were no trees entangled around this school's walls. The place was equipped with a library, computer lab and buses. Although private, this school offers many scholarships for students. The photo of students playing basketball was at this school.
School 3
The last school we observed was Escuela de Libertad - Liberty School. It was at this school that Alex and I were captured in a photo speaking with one of the students. The photo of two students by the fence was also taken at this school.
The photo of Beth on the bus demonstrates how exhausting the traveling is. It also shows how many of us are receding into ourselves. During the first week most of us were boisterous and full of energy. This week even I find myself reflecting on this experience. It is hard to describe how we feel and I believe many of us are still figuring it out. Aligning our thoughts and emotions can be difficult when they are so conflicting.
The last picture I will elaborate on is the one of Alex. It is a joy to watch how happy documenting our trip has been for him. Victoria and Alex have promising journalistic talent. Both individuals augment each others strengths and weaknesses. I thought I would point out the hard workers behind the notepads, voice recorders and cameras. I will be grateful in years to come when I look back on the wonderful memories they captured for me.
Hi Chris,
ReplyDeleteYour visit to the schools brings back memories of my birth place in Africa, simple surroundings in tropical beauty. But the beauty in the DR is, as you say, juxtaposed with such poverty. You and your new Centennial friends will be bonded by these experiences and yes it will take time for you to figure out and make sense of all the images whirling around in your heads and to align your thoughts and emotions. This sounds like it will be a life impacting experience for you all. Thank you for all that you are doing for the children and communities served by your deeds. I hope all the ones who have fallen ill from fatigue and stomach flu will bounce back with a second wave of new energy! Take care,
Vicki Bismilla
This is really a message for all of you...
ReplyDeleteThank you for the work you are all doing for these communities. I looked at that picture of Beth and can imagine just how hard and exhausting this experience must be for you - both physically and mentally. Most meaningful experiences are. After reading these posts I am quite certain something significant and impactful is developing from the energy you are expending both for you and those you have been connecting with. Take care,
Gina
Absorb and savor all of your exceptional experiences during this trip and gain a wisdom that will last for a lifetime....stay healthy and be safe....Cheers!
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