Reflections on my Ethiopian Experience

I’ve been back for over a week now… and I finally have started to digest my experience in Ethiopia. As I’ve gone back to work, I’ve thought of Ethiopia, the people, and the culture a lot… plus I’ve been e-mailing with Abayneh and Wondiamagn. J

Makanisa School for the Deaf:

First, I’ve been thinking and reflecting on the School for the Deaf. I don’t think I blogged too much about it, but it definitely deserves some blog and reflection time. While I was visiting the Director of the Church of Christ Makanisa School for the Deaf I came across a board with their mission statement, vision, and goals. First under the words, there were these three words: Educational, Development, Programme. Mission: Give deaf and hard-of-hearing children the chance to get education that enables them to become self-reliant and active citizens. The basic rights of deaf children and youth in Ethiopia are respected and deaf children and Youth have equal opportunities for development and participation. Vision: to see the deaf and destitute Children rise up to their potential in every sphere of life.

Goals:

·      Give information on the reasons and prevention of deafness to the people

·      Provide free education for the deaf and hearing destitute children at nursery, primary, and junior high school levels so that they become a valuable part of the community

·      Develop textbooks and other materials for the deaf

·      Provide skills training for young deaf people

·      Give information on HIV/AIDS and reproductive health to the deaf and their parents

·      Train parents of the deaf with the sign languages so that they are able to communicate with their children

·      Develop the teaching abilities of the staff to do their job better and effectively

Mission, Vision and Goals board in the office of the Director.

Although I didn’t get to spend too much time with this organization, I got to meet people through the school who cared deeply about the students. They understand how precious and important each life is. Yes these kids might have a hearing problem, but they are smart. They are athletic. They are creative. When I talked to the young social worker, she said her favorite part of her job was interacting with the students, and being able to communicate with deaf individuals in the community. When I mentioned to different people in the community what organization I worked for almost all of them knew of the school. They might not have known too much about it, but its name was recognizable. What this showed me, is that although they are making a huge impact in the community they work with and with the 265 students, there is still more work to be done in the community with awareness. And that’s why SLTSSA was created. Since it was created many kids and adults have been identify as being deaf and been help. Families are learning that their kids aren’t stupid, and many of them are willing to go to sign language class every day for at least 3 months. When I took the community classes and tried my best to communicate with those in class, I was surprised at the dedication of these individuals coming back each day to learn so that they could communicate with each other and loved ones. I saw with my own eyes, the joy and happiness on the faces of both the deaf and the hearing individuals in the class, as they were able to find a way through signing of communicating with each other. And, as I mentioned earlier, Abraham (the one who gave me my sign name), told me how happy it made it him for me to try to sign to him. I know that what both the School and the SLTSSA organization are doing is impacting lives. They are helping to integrate deaf and hearing people into one community, because we all are people.  

Wealth:

Another thing that surprised me was the wealth and the lack of wealth in Ethiopia. I know I mentioned this a few times in my blog, but I wanted to follow up some more. I knew that Ethiopia is one of the poorest countries in the world, so I wasn’t expecting to see wealth. Most of the population lives in mud structures (even in the city), with no running water or electricity. They don’t have appropriate sewage and public urination (and worse) is a regular occurrence. There are many beggars-- disabled, mothers, and children. And from my conversations with some of my friends over there, they don’t have much money.

Every time they asked me how much a laptop or a plane ticket cost, I felt so awkward because I knew that $1200 is a lot of money in general but even more there. That’s like a year of pay for someone. Anyways, I wasn’t as surprised by the “poverty” of most of the population but I was surprised by the extreme wealth that was also there. Members of embassies (almost every country has an embassy in Addis), members of the African Union, government officials, diplomats, and other businessmen all live in Ethiopia. They live in huge houses and have a completely different standard of living. It was pretty shocking for me to see such a difference. Also, the fancy hotels like the Radisson or the Sheraton cater to the Western lifestyle include the prices, which could be $500 a room during a busy season. It’s almost hard to believe that some places in Ethiopia could charge that much, but obviously they aren’t catering to the locals, it’s to businessmen and other foreigners. I can’t even imagine how that wealth would make the locals feel. Are they angry or bitter? Or maybe it doesn’t even faze them? I don’t know. But what I do know is that the wealth shocked me… not the lack of wealth because that’s what I expected, but the few individuals with extreme wealth.

Development (Forward Thinking):

Going to Ethiopia showed me how little I know about the world and how ignorant I really am. Even though I can read research, guidebooks, and watch the news, nothing really compares to getting to know a place first hand. (This makes sense, as it’s the point of this global experience assignment in the first place.) Before I went to Ethiopia, I imagined it to have very little – very little development. And although in some areas –both physically and mentally—that is true, Ethiopia (or Addis) surprised me greatly with its development.

Ugh. I hate that I am just an ignorant American. But the truth is, I was surprised to encounter so many people who were forward thinkers, whose ideas were the same ideas that we discuss in class. Ideas to stimulate positive social change. The manager (a man) of SLTSSA was telling me the importance of having women in the equation and getting jobs. How it was “very good” for all of us. The president of the Ethiopian Civil Service University also said similar things as it strives to have more female applicants. They also created specific programs to help encourage women participation (and even won an award). The government or parliament actually has a lot of female representation in the country, I think more than the House of Representatives or the Senate does in the states. The Minister of Tourism was talking about the importance of education, and the country as a whole is trying to make changes.

Not only are there people who want to make big changes in their community, but they have similar views as many of us in the States. They aren’t just “helpless.” They have some strong-minded people ready to make a difference. And not only in the thinking category but development in terms of infrastructure is also at an exciting time for Ethiopia. Many building are being built and many areas are being updated as I said with electricity and sewage. A better system of transportation with a train will come in the next 3-5 years. The tourism market will increase. This is an exciting time of development and rebirth and I had no idea… It’s just another thing I can thank Ethiopia for, opening my eyes to realize that I impose my own thoughts on others and have lots of my own assumptions that aren’t correct... and that our perspective comes from our own very narrow lens. I must continue to expand my perspective on life by continue to meet others and get to know them!

Destruction and Healing:

As I mentioned in my blog earlier, we visited the “Red Terror” Museum, which gave us a glimpse into the history of Ethiopia, filled with communism, death, military rule and genocide. I had no idea of the tragedies that occurred in Ethiopia, but once again I was stunned by the sin and hatred of humanity. I don’t understand how people could kill their neighbors or friends this way. I couldn’t stand hearing about the ways they tortured people. And worse was the pain that was in the eyes of our tour guide, who himself was tortured and jailed for over 8 years.

The military used fear to control the people in Ethiopia. Killing and scaring innocent people in front of them to prove the point that they have the power, and they aren’t afraid of using it. They suppressed education and intellectuals. The military feared them because they understood the power of knowledge and they didn’t want anyone to have it, which reminds me of the importance of education. And although today some of the murders and torturers roam around Ethiopia free, I am amazed by the healing that has occurred. Healing not in the sense that everything is fine and that we can justify what happened in the past, because we cannot, but healing in the sense that some of those who have come through alive have started to build a life for themselves, some even with families. As I mentioned, the museum is not funded by the government or a non-profit organization, but by private donors and everyday donations. It stands as memory of the history of Ethiopia, but at the same time it stands as a statement and a reminder that this cannot happen again. Although we can’t go back in time and erase history, we can try to learn from it and not allow it to happen again. And in a collective community like Ethiopia, I pray that it never does again.

"Never Ever Again"

Reverse Culture shock:

I knew that it would be difficult to come back after such an enriching experience, but it got even more difficult as I went back to work. After having an amazing time and almost not wanting to leave, I knew it would be difficult to come back here, but I also knew that eventually I would fall back into my routine of my life. And I was scared that I would forget my experience and the people I met, and instead get caught up in the life I have here… So far, this is how I feel.

I’ve constantly been thinking about my experience in Ethiopia. What an incredible learning experience. What will I take with me? How can I help? What can I do in my life? What I know is that being back at work, I noticed a lot of things that make me wonder what I am doing here. The things that we care about here seem so insignificant to the things I saw in Ethiopia. When we “need” things here the word has a totally different meaning then in Ethiopia. And at times, it makes me sad, disturbed, and maybe even a little annoyed to be back. That’s probably a bit harsh, but I did have a moment where I actually thought to myself, “what am I doing here?” BUT what God has revealed to me while I’ve been back is that God has me here, now, in the United States, in LA at Pepperdine for a reason. And while I am here, I don’t have to choose between all or nothing (between America and Ethiopia), but instead they can both be a part of me. This is where I am now, I hope I can take what I learned and apply it here. I learned a lot from the people in Ethiopia. I saw people who were striving to help those around them – those living in their community. Although I’m not in Ethiopia anymore, I can learn from those I met and continue to strive to help those in my community... whether at Pepperdine, or in L.A. or Malibu -- wherever I am, I must strive to serve someone that is not me. Wherever I am I can be a light in this world. I’m thankful for being a part of the Ethiopian culture even if it was just for a blink of an eye, and I know that I will go back one day. In the meantime, I hope many others will have the opportunity to have a new experience. And I will always keep Ethiopia, the people, the images, and the community in my heart as a constant reminder to live for more.

THANK YOU:

To all my friends and family who have walked with me in my life’s journey, I thank you. And as God continues to work on softening my heart and leading me in incredible directions, I am blessed to have your encouragement. Ethiopia will be another experience that will add to the person I am today, so thank you for being part of my never-ending transformation and journey with God. Love you.

Thoughts on Globalization

 

As I mentioned earlier in my blog, Ethiopia is the only country in Africa that was not colonized. Italy stayed for only 5 years as it tried to colonize Ethiopia, but was unsuccessful and was driven out. I think Ethiopia is very proud of this, and that they are able to retain its diverse culture. However, I definitely saw Italian influence like the many pizza and pasta restaurants (including the one I mentioned with my fasting pizza; it was amazing! I wish that place existed in LA) and the shoe shining. And when I say shoe shining, you need to take way the Americanized image you have of a fancy, puffy chair raised up, with a man in a suit cleaning imported leather shoes. Instead, imagine rows of people maybe 10 sitting on rocks with rags on every corner. Yes, some men with suits were getting their shoes cleaned, but even tennis shoes or anything were getting cleaned as well. And not only has Italy’s influence brought the creation of jobs in shoe shining, but it’s part of the culture. Having clean shoes is important especially before going into meetings. It was interesting to see the influence from Italy.

There is also influence from the West/Europe around speaking English. Speaking English is a big deal. I believe that almost all University students learn English, but most are afraid to speak it, unless they are trying to communicate with a foreigner. Even if they want to practice English with their friend, they are too embarrassed. Almost everyone I met that spoke English asked how their English was. Also, some were really thankful to meet and talk with me to improve their English. It made me realize how ethnocentric and selfish we are as citizens of the U.S. Other places like Ethiopia with hundreds of different languages, try to learn English, and believe that it’s important enough to teach in school. We are so spoiled that so many places learn English or else the majority of us would not be able to communicate. But by learning English, they see it as an opportunity to move further in their careers and have a better quality life because they know they can get better jobs. It really amazes me how so many English speakers take this for granted AND it makes me want to learn more languages, even though God did not gift me with the ability to pick up languages quickly or easily.

Another part of globalization that I noticed was in technology. A lot of people in Africa have cell phones. It’s completely normal. And even though the network is down and unreliable at times. Everyone has one. Even Wondimagagn told me he couldn’t believe that I didn’t have a phone while I was here. He asked me how I was supposed to communicate with people. He said it was easy and cheap to get a phone. You just pay a few dollars for a cheap phone and add minutes to it. That’s how all Ethiopians use their phones. BUT what I think was so interesting was the blend of this more western (I would call it) need for technology and the traditional collective culture of Ethiopia that exists together. Yes, communication does happen on the phone, but actually a lot of it happens in person. I remember Mindi telling us from day one that when people want to talk to you or need to take care of some business they will just meet you face-to-face or show up at your door. And sure enough, one day we came back and someone had come to house to say hello and drop something off (unannounced). Another time I saw this in action was on that first Monday, when I decided to visit Salam instead of go to my organization because I knew the manager was going to be out. I asked Dereje to call Makanisa and SLTSSA to tell them I wasn’t coming in, but he told me he would just stop by in the morning and talk to them in person. I thought that was really out of the way for him and not necessary but he insisted. I realized that’s part of the collective and community culture in Ethiopia... so I was very fascinated to see how globalization through technology is present, and the person-to-person connections have not been lost.

Day 15: Tuesday (11/26): Our Last Day!

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Tuesday, 11/26. My last day in Ethiopia (note: I’m not writing this at the end of the day on Tuesday, but a week later so I will do my best to remember things). One of the wonderful things, we (Amy, Nicole, and I) got to experience was tagging along with Mindi and Dean Weber to their meeting with the President of a Civil Service University in Addis. We really just came to walk around and see the University while they were in the meeting but the President invited us to sit in and have lunch with them. I’m not sure when I would ever have the chance to sit in on a meeting like this, which was trying to set up an initial relationship between Pepperdine University and a University in Ethiopia. We learned a lot from the president and it was a really unique experience.

Marketplace visit and transactions:

After we got a tour and ate, we decided to do some shopping (it was the last day and we need to get a few more souvenirs.) First, we went to the “gold and silver district” of Addis. Imagine, store after store right next to each other and across from each other with just silver and gold. A lot of them had the same items. Everything was priced on weight. They would weigh each piece of jewelry we picked out (and of course the prices were very good… if it was real silver and gold… which I’m still unsure about.) At places like these, you can’t negotiate. The prices are set. Some observations I noticed where that these places were very little. Most of the people were attentive. Some stores would just watch you until you expressed interest, other places would try to help you right away. What I noticed in many of the other places I went to like the mall or other shops in buildings was that 1) they checked our bags and patted down our bodies before we got inside (at malls) and they had security with big guns at the entrance 2) employees follow you around the store. Like serious customer service OR they were watching us for security measures. But either way they would follow so closely. It was very interesting, and coming from a culture where we are individualistic, it was definitely a change for me to have them following me everywhere I went in the store. I still don’t know if it was customer service or not.. or just cultural..

Anyways, after we went shopping for gold and silver we went to more of a marketplace where you could bargain.  This people have small little shops made from natural resources like wood and mud, and they are not shy about talking to you. They want you to come into their stores, “just take a look inside.” Like the other stores they were very “helpful” but more in a pushy way than a polite sweet way. They also were totally fine with making bargains. I actually was about to negotiate for some paintings because I was buying 2. I think I probably could have gotten the price down more, but it was just the experience that I was going for. What stood out to me the most as I walked through these shops and as we drove past people selling things on the street was that I was surprised that they made any money. Especially since everything we were buying only cost a few dollars. It wasn’t very expensive (this is all relative to living in the United States.) I felt like a lot of their items were there for ages, and I didn’t see many other customers. Do only foreigners shop there? If so, do they make a lot of money? How can this be the way they survive? Especially if most of the population doesn’t have a lot of money to spend on “extra” things. Even though, from the outside it doesn’t look like a sustainable lifestyle (because I can’t imagine them getting very much business), I do appreciate the entrepreneur spirit of these people.

As we went back to our compound, Amy, Nicole and I made a pit stop at the store to get a few last minute presents for Adam and Zion and for Amanual’s new little son. Over the course of the two weeks, we really got close to people and started to build relationships. I think that’s why I am most sad. You finally start building relationships, and then you have to leave. But they are in my prayers and I will think of them often.

On our return back to the compound, the electricity was out. (Typical!) So we did our last minute packing and hanging out together in the dark. Then it was off to the airport to wait for our 2 a.m. flight… and over 24 hours later, I finally arrived safely in LA.

Day 14: Monday (11/25): My Last Day at SLTSSA and Makanisa School

Monday, 11/25. Today was our last days at our organizations, and for some reason I was a bit nervous. But as always, God provided an awesome last day. I went to sign language class and saw all the same people. I even got to take a picture of them. Also, on Friday, I had brought the notebooks and pencils to Wondimagagn, and today he gave them out in class. Even though I was so embarrassed. They were all so thankful, even thought I felt like it was such a little gift. I was really touched. I will miss being in class with them and trying to communicate with them. I don't know if I'll ever see them again, but I know they will be in my memories and prayers forever.

My bench buddy in class!

My classmates from Sign Language Class

After class, I went to see the Director of the school to give out the color pencils and slap bracelets to the kids. Unfortunately, I didn't have enough for all 265 students, so we just went to the two youngest classes. I handed them each a colored pencil, and then showed them the slap bracelets and THEY LOVED THEM. I'm not surprised because the first time I went to Africa, my friend Meredith gave me some to give to the kids and they absolutely adored them. Even the Director and the teachers wanted one! The kids were also VERY VERY VERY thankful. (and obviously so cute.)

Slap bracelets and cute kids!

After the director wanted me to take a picture with all of the teachers. They were all in a room (I think it was a break) in their white lab coats. I took lots of pictures with them. I told them I would be coming back in 2015... so I hope that happens (especially since I'm suppose to be their English teacher.)

Teachers (Director next to me in the suit jacket)

More teachers! The older one next to me was my sign language teacher at SLTSSA as well! He works at both places.

After I hung out with the kids, I wanted to make sure I said my goodbyes. I went to see the manager of SLTSSA (Fikremarcus) who was back from his weeklong training. We chatted for awhile, and I hope that I can keep in contact with him. I will want to know the progress of the organization and their projects and hopefully continue a partnership. I also stopped by to say hi and bye to Abayneh, my computer teacher friend. There will be a lot of people who I will miss who made this experience such a rich one... especially those who reminded me that the most important part is God.

Saying goodbye (or see you later) is always sad, but I couldn't ask for a better last day. I feel like I got to leave on such a happy note. And I am really encouraged to come back again, and help build an international programs or missions trip or both here.

After I said my final goodbyes, I met up with Nicole and Amy at Connected in Hope (the organization Nicole is working with). Former fuel wood carrying women are able to stop carrying wood by weaving scarves. So obviously, I had to support them! Then we went to our favorite pizza place (YES FASTING PIZZA is the best). We took our awesome driver Amanual to lunch with us. He taught us even more Amharic. It was wonderful.

I really feel like my Amharic has really grown, as well as my sign language (now I just have to figure out of all my signs actually translate into ASL). Next, was another stop to get more coffee. Then we headed to the Golf Course to meet up with Solomon (Minister for Culture and Tourism) for dinner. Dinner was great. He is such a wonderful man with a lot of great stories and information (and very funny). He offered us all a job in the Ethiopian Tourism Business! Hm.. It's an option!!!

I honestly can't believe this is my last night in Ethiopia (until I come again). This trip was too short. There is so much more to Addis and Ethiopia that we didn't get to see. So much incredible history, beautiful landscapes and wonderful people that we weren't able to meet yet. I'm sad to say goodbye to the people here. But I know God is planting a seed. Whether I will get to spend much more time here or not, I am beyond thankful for the opportunity to be here. God is so good.

Day 13: Sunday (11/24): Ethiopian Orthodox Church and Lighting the Ethiopian Path

Sunday, 11/24.

Religious Service:

Hello Friends, this morning we woke up to go to an Ethiopian Orthodox service. We actually stood outside because it was too full inside. There were a lot of people outside. Many of these people would be there as early as 3 a.m. in the morning, which is crazy. There is also a separate part of the building for women since they can't go in the part where the men go…  and shoes must be taken off. We also learned that the singing is not in Amharic but in Gaz (sp?) which would be equivalent to us going to church and the service being in Latin. So really no one actually know what is being said... Interesting right? So it seems to me that it’s more like a ritual that everyone just grows up doing. However, even though they might not understand what is being said, they know a few chants, and in their own way, they are very religious here (from my observations). There faith is important to them. All taxicabs that are Orthodox have tons of pictures of Mary and Jesus, etc. It’s really interesting to me as a Christian. My “religion” is all about my relationship with God, and it’s not that I don’t think people have relationships with God in Ethiopia, but it’s obviously very formal in the way they can approach him, yet it is so engrained in them. ALSO, I noticed that when they walk or drive past an Orthodox Church they all make the sign of the trinity. And supposedly if they pass a church on the street they are suppose to kiss the cross on the gate... It was quite interesting (and of course, all the women had their heads covered by a wrap). Although there are also Muslims in Addis, you can hear both the Mosques and the Orthodox churches blasting music. You see hundreds of people on Sundays going to church, and you can see how it’s a part of them. I really felt like every person in Ethiopia was religious, and I was amazed how for so many years both religions can coexist peacefully.

After church we went to breakfast. I had Ful which is a traditional Ethiopian breakfast made of beans and onions. It was yummy! 

Ful

After breakfast, we went to see the community center that Mindi and Dereje FINALLY were able to seal the deal on and rent! As part of Lighting the Ethiopian Path (their nonprofit organization, http://www.ethiopianpath.org/) they will be turning this building (which is among all these condos, which are more like rented apartments) into a church/community center. On the weekend the space will be used as a church and for church activities, but during the week, it will be a space for people to come. I think they will start off by holding tutoring sessions, especially in English and computer. It's something really awesome they are doing. Plus all the people living in the condos were displaced and moved from Merkato (the huge open air market which is being torn down). There are a lot of people in the area and a lot of people who could use the support (and God). I'm so excited to see how God uses Mindi, Dereje and their family. I can't want to see what the building looks like after paint, fixing up, electricity, furniture, etc. I'm so happy for them! And I definitely want to figure out a way to come back and bring people. Either a missions trip or maybe a Pepperdine International Program!!! We'll see!!

Dereje and his new building for Lighting the Ethiopian Path

Condos (apartment buildings) of the individuals that the community center/church will serve.

 

After we saw their new place, we went back home for a bit. We had another traditional coffee ceremony, which was amazing. Ethiopian coffee is the best, and I'm not even the biggest fan of coffee. They always freshly roast the coffee beans over a charcoal stove. Then once they are done, they will bring the roasted coffee pot to the guests so that we can all smell the coffee... yummmm. Then they will grind the coffee, and put it in a clay jar on the charcoal stove and add water. Then they serve it in these little cups will about 2 spoons of sugar (yes, it's a lot) and some milk (I had soy!). Honestly, it is so amazing and strong. Then after we finish it, they do at least another round. Coffee is huge here. And I really love it. :)

Roasting coffee (buna) over the charcoal stove. Sweet popcorn is served for special guests.

After coffee, we drove to see Merkato.  It's pretty much closed on Sunday, but we were able to see a little be of it. It's crazy to think that it will all be torn down so that they can improve sanitation and build new buildings for shop. Many people will lose their home and their community, however, the improvements for the city as a whole will be good. It's kind of a win lose situation.

For dinner we went to a traditional Ethiopian restaurant, with traditional dancing from different tribes in Ethiopia. The food, like always was delicious and it was fun to watch the very different styles of dance within one country!

The restaurant

Traditional music was played from a handful of the different regions in Ethiopia

More yummy food! Fasting Food and Injera!

Tomorrow will be my last days at my organizations. It will be sad. :(

Anyways.. until tomorrow!

Day 12: Saturday (11/23): NGO Fair and "Red Terror"

--> Saturday, 11/23. Today was quite a day (and a long one). It's about 11:30 p.m. and I'm just getting to bed. We started off the morning by going to the NGO fair. Every month at the International Evangelical Church, a group of NGOs (non governmental organizations) get together and sell their products. It was really great. One, because we got to see a lot of different social enterprise. Two, because we got to support a lot of social enterprises, and three, because I got a lot a great stuff like an amazing animal quilt! I am so excited! Some organizations' items were made by HIV individuals, disabled individuals, etc. It was really neat and rewarding to be able to support them.

My new quilt! (And Mindi's and Amy's)

After three or so hours shopping, we went to lunch at this delicious Indian restaurant. It was very spicy, but very good. It was fun to be having Indian food in Ethiopia. I love the mix of cultures!

Then we went to the Red Terror Museum. It is a private museum (not supported by the government or a NGO) that gives the history of Ethiopia from the last emperor to communism and then to the period of time called Red Terror. It reminded me of the Rwandan genocide, and it was so sad. Similar to the Holocaust museum in LA, our docent was a survivor, who was in prison for 8 years and tortured. It was just devastating to see how humanity could be so evil. And to see that we never learn from our mistakes. And I couldn't believe that it was so recent. Some of it happening while I was alive. But it is also crazy to see how far Ethiopia's come in the last 20 years. From famine, droughts, mass deaths, torture to this new and up and coming place.

The Red Terror Museum

"As if I bore them all in one night, they slew them in a single night."

I honestly had tears in my eyes. I'm not sure if I can really process or write down in words how it made me feel. And I wish I could explain all the history I learned, but I don't think I have the energy or the emotional capacity right now. (If you are interested, please look it up online.)

After that we went home, and got to have dinner with the Minister of Culture and Tourism. The conversation we had with him was rich and very educational. And really... who gets the opportunity to have dinner with someone like the Minister of Culture and Tourism for the country?! Not very many people. He told us all sorts of things about Ethiopia. I'm amazed with Ethiopia, and it really has a special place in my heart. I WILL come back here, and I really hope more people have the opportunity to meet and fall in love with this country like I am. It is so rich in religious, historical, and political history. And the cultural landscape is so diverse. With over 100 languages spoken and 80 nationalities, it is amazing. And as I said the only African state not to be colonized, it is so unique. This is really a changing point for Ethiopia, and I see lots of progress and growth in its future, and that is really exciting.

I know this is a short blog, but today was fill with so much rich and important information, and I am very thankful. Understanding the history of a culture is so important to building relationships and becoming more loving human beings... (That's what I think at least.) I know there is SO MUCH more for me to learn. And I hope that I can continue to be a part of Ethiopia even after I physically leave it.

Day 11: Friday (11/22): More About Ethiopia

Friday, 11/22. Another day at SLTSSA and another Sign Language Class! I'm really enjoying my time taking class and trying to communicate with the men and women in the class. Most of them are repeats so by now they've seen me a few times. It's been cool to see them interact. The teacher was really nice and wanted to be inclusive again, and wrote out a few lists in English on the board. I learned all sorts of fun words today like: lazy (lazy boy, lazy girl), selfish, far, improvement, park, deaf, blind, mute, open, close, long/tall, and a lot of other ones. Not sure I remember them all, but I definitely added to my current dictionary.

After class, I pretty much got an Amharic lesson from from Wondiamagn. Literally, I learned so much about the language. I also learned how to type Amharic using a Standard English keyboard, if you have the special program. But really, Amharic would take me forever to learn!!!!

And I learned about the Ethiopian Calendar versus the Gregorian Calendar (which we are on). So today for us would be 11/22/13 (November 22, 2013) but in Ethiopia today is 13/3/2006 (November 13, 2006). I’m guessing you are a bit confused. Let me explain. First, they put the day first, then the month and the year. Second, as I mentioned earlier, Ethiopia is 6 years behind us. Third, November is actually their 3rd month (Sept. is their first month). Fourth, they are also behind on the day of the month as well.

And (as I’ve mentioned before) time of the day starts when the sun rises, which is around 6 am our time, but for them 6 am would be 0 am or 12, so... a normal work day is from 2 am - 11 am which would be 8 am - 5 pm for us... so yes, it's been a bit confusing to schedule things.

After my long but really insightful conversation with Wondiamagn (which included a lot more information), I went to meet Nicole at Jupiter Hotel. We hung out, got some work done and then ventured to find a post office. When, Danny, our driver brought us there, he brought us to the main post office in Addis, which was huge AND a training post office. And WOW. It was large.

Also, today Dean Weber (the Dean of Pepperdine's Graduate School of Education and Psychology came!) She is doing work with Mindi and trying to establish some relationships between Pepperdine and Addis. It's pretty great (and rare) to have your professor of your class and the Dean of the school share the experience with you. So I'm looking forward to having her here (to our home, because that's what it feels like, my new home).

To be honest, I'm feeling sad to be leaving. I've just started to build relationships with people and get comfortable here, and it's sad to think that I might not see some of these people ever again (even when I come back in 2015, they might not be here). I can't even believe that in 4 days I will be gone, that this experience will have come and gone already.. just like that. I pray I can keep of piece of this experience with me forever, and I really do hope I can come back to Ethiopia. (God willing of course.) Maybe I'll get to coordinate a Missions Trip here OR start a summer International Program here or both! Or something else, but I really do hope to come back (and bring some friends!)... maybe you?!

Think about it. #ethiopia2015 is sounding pretty good, don't you think?