The dry, thin air, the intense heat of the sun, the foreign birds flying above, the chorus of African voices joined in song... I am in South Afica. It's still weird for me to think about.
Getting here was long and tiresome, but at the same time it was an exciting adventure. Eighteen straight hours is definitely the longest I've ever flown. Intense. What would otherwise be torture was somewhat softened by free on-demand entertainment, decent plane food, and a cheerful crew. Not to mention, I had the most amazing experience watching a lighning storm from above. There are probably no other words to describe this experience for me but absolutely incredible. If you ever get the chance to do this, I say go for it. All the way.
Really though, this cross-cultural is so much more than window seats and small talk. From the very first moments it has been a learning experience. I am grateful for this first opportunity to share a little of what has been happening, but am unsure if words will truly be able to represent the how I've been feeling so far.
Some of the most interesting things for me so far have been them music, the weather, and the cultural differences. When I first got here I considered it not very different from what I'm used to at home. The more I have been here, the more I have been proved wrong. First of all, I have learned a very important lesson about the African sun. I'm sure all of you know exactly what that lesson was.
More importantly, I've learned a lot about the people here, which is probably the best part. I don't even know how to explain it. As opposed to American culture, a South African would rather be late to work than not know how your day is going. It's so cool. Having discussions with our host families and asking each other questions has been so interesting. I love learning about these beautiful people.
On Wednesday, we will be heading to Soweto for our homestays with the families we have been working with the past few days. And when I say working, I mean it. We have been going over learning and speaking Sesotho hour after hour after hour... it is exhausting. But, I am so excited and grateful that we have this opportunity.This is all I have the time to write for now, but I will try to update you again sometime soon. I feel like we've already done so much, it's hard to believe we've only just begun!
Sala Hantle - Bohlokwa (my Sesotho name meaning "Important")
P.S. Here's something important to know if you ever come to South Africa: the guard dogs will eat you if given the chance. Watch out.
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