Yesterday was our first day at the Africa Institute of South Africa (AISA), and we spent the day in the office not being helpful because we had neither internet nor a power converter for electronics. Today, we went to the electronics store to see if we could remedy that.
Now, in America, if someone doesn't have an item in stock, you move on. Not here. They told us they didn't have a direct converter...but then proceeded to cut the top off of one of the plugs. I have to admit, I didn't think we would get anywhere when I saw them using a tiny screwdriver to hammer the pieces together, but they did it! They brilliantly jerry-rigged a converter for us. And thus, power.
We also managed to borrow some chords to hook up to the internet from the office, as they don't have wifi. I'm suddenly very grateful for what I have at home and have realized I could never survive on dial-up again. Did I mention, no internet in the hotel rooms? Which translates into no Netflix at night...I'm struggling to make it here, guys.
In all seriousness, I am loving it here already. The people are so open, and jump to help us at every opportunity. I keep trying to pronounce their names, and they generously tell me that I am spot on!
The young ladies whom we have been paired to work with are intelligent and very driven. Two of them want to be diplomats, and the other plans to open her own geographic information systems consulting firm. And I thought I was ambitious!
Professor Keasley had us read an article today to prepare for our research, using methods outlined by Paulo Freire. He described limit situations that keep us from connecting seemingly isolated contradictions to broad themes and social patterns. He urges people to see them not as "the impassable boundaries where possibilities end, but the real boundaries where possibilities begin". What we perceive as limits are only constructions. Change your perspective, and the world opens up.
I am so excited to see all that I can gain from the people here. I think working together will allow us to open up new fields of possibilities. I can't wait to see what's in store for tomorrow!
Always,
Lorien
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