Today I was leaving at 7:40 for a ten minute bike ride for an 8 am class when the key and lock disintegrated and did not open. So I got a hammer and beat the shit out of it. So today my hammer and I are winning. LOL
We heard from John that his laptop is not functioning, so it may effect how much and how often he can blog. I'll continue to post his text messages.
Walk to Atanga SS
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Too Little Time Today
There are several things going on, and I might not be able to post a long entry until the weekend. But we saw the rhinos again, I lost money to my teacher friends playing Rat at the rhino exchange. I will keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers as I lay in bed at 10 pm at Atanga ( a lots of time to think). I wonder if all 14 of my neighbors will be back (gobble, gobble) or did one of them become dinner..
wish me luck
John
wish me luck
John
Friday, June 26, 2009
Why We Teach
With absenteeism a problem at Atanga, and seeing a heartbroken father talk to the teachers at Atanga after he realized his daughter was not going to school. He had to stay a village a way to find work in the fields, and with him being gone his daughter was spending her day with friends, and not in school. I also saw another young man try to get a copy of his school records from the officials at Atanga. He was chastised for his attire, and told to come back another time. He came back an hour later, with a borrowed shirt, but the same tattered pants as before. He was not given his school records, and in very tough terms he was lectured by several of the teachers. It is hard to understand, as I saw the hurt and pain on his face, but maybe this tough lesson is exactly what he needed or maybe he is just a beaten man in a pretty beat up part of our world.
Bill said today, “The ones that attend, the ones that take notes, they will do anything to succeed. They will do anything you ask them.” So in this quiet village called Atanga, this in the end is why we are here. This is why you should continue to support Schools for Schools, and find a way to give a few extra dollars to Invisible Children. There are students here who are amazing. On Wednesday afternoon, I wandered up and talked to a few of the Senior 4 students (most equivalent to Juniors in America). It was the best conversation, they asked me a few questions about all of my students in America. I told them about Hey Day and Shout Week, and where St. Louis is on a map, but I really saw an amazing curiosity. I pray that these students continue to get a chance to move on with their education. In this group of 8 students was both the Head Boy and Head Girl. This position would be a combination of Stuco President, Dean of Students, Sports Captain, and Good Will Ambassador. They are amazing young men and women, just before I left for home on Tuesday, I also saw Otim John receive an application for Debate prefect from a perfect gentleman by the name of Komakech Tony Blair. Translated that means “unlucky man” Tony Blair. It is on these days that I realize how blessed I am by old friends, former students, and family. And also how lucky I am to see new friends both Ugandan and American that I have met this summer. I have strived to live a patient life these past weeks and not let frustrations or obstacles spill out. I guess I have to, for this small time, I am Atangan.
Bill said today, “The ones that attend, the ones that take notes, they will do anything to succeed. They will do anything you ask them.” So in this quiet village called Atanga, this in the end is why we are here. This is why you should continue to support Schools for Schools, and find a way to give a few extra dollars to Invisible Children. There are students here who are amazing. On Wednesday afternoon, I wandered up and talked to a few of the Senior 4 students (most equivalent to Juniors in America). It was the best conversation, they asked me a few questions about all of my students in America. I told them about Hey Day and Shout Week, and where St. Louis is on a map, but I really saw an amazing curiosity. I pray that these students continue to get a chance to move on with their education. In this group of 8 students was both the Head Boy and Head Girl. This position would be a combination of Stuco President, Dean of Students, Sports Captain, and Good Will Ambassador. They are amazing young men and women, just before I left for home on Tuesday, I also saw Otim John receive an application for Debate prefect from a perfect gentleman by the name of Komakech Tony Blair. Translated that means “unlucky man” Tony Blair. It is on these days that I realize how blessed I am by old friends, former students, and family. And also how lucky I am to see new friends both Ugandan and American that I have met this summer. I have strived to live a patient life these past weeks and not let frustrations or obstacles spill out. I guess I have to, for this small time, I am Atangan.
Tuesday-- They Won't Let Me Change the Channel
Today, Bill and I got out of school a little before Kevin, we stopped at Brenda’s Good Time Café, and were expecting a quiet respite at the end of the day. We were first greeted by a man named Bob, and he started off with a very cordial and friendly conversation. It was soon apparent that there was something a little bit off with Bob and his story. There were some details that were confused and repeated and some maybe we did not understand, but it seemed Bob was also looking for something from Bill and I that we were just not able to give. Bob soon moved a storefront away, and a young mentally disturbed boy moved closer to us, he was holding a box of milk, and had about a foot long piece of drool, hanging from his lip. He, too, looked at us with some hope and some sense of need, but how could we help this young boy, I did not know. Bob’s spot on the chair next to us was soon taken over by an obviously intoxicated man, he had gone to the small store next to Brenda’s to buy a bag of alcohol. Imagine MD 20/20 in a big Kool Pop bag, that is drank by biting off one corner and slurping it out of the small plastic bag. I have know forgotten this man’s name but he alternately called me his brother, his papa, and his lover. He tried to explain that he loved white men, because his sister had married a white man and moved to California, and his other sister had married a man from India. So he tried to explain, as he spilled more sweet yellow alcohol on his hands, pants, and arms. The bag with the hole in it might not be the most efficient way for drunks to drink. I then returned home, and dropped my first deuce of the Atanga trip into a smelly pit latrine, that might only be used by me, because it has a lock, but then again maybe not. Although, I really believed I have seen Africa and its people before, it is a much different story this year. At night, I always had a chance to relax around the candlelight with American teachers. When I got hot there was a fan that I would sit in front of, when I wanted an ice cold drink I could go buy one. This is a different experience, when I see the unpleasantness and heartbreak of poverty and tough conditions, I cannot change the channel.
John
John
Atanga--Monday Night
Atanga
The first night at Atanga, we stopped for a cold drink (room temperature) at Brenda’s restaurant. It is called Good Times, and I will take a picture of it eventually for the blog. The miniature bike that bought for me to ride to school and back had broken down, and I had left it up the dirt road with the bicycle repairman. The entire town laughs at me, when I ride by, because the big is way too small for me. Anyway, it was a good happy hour at Brenda’s drinking warm coke with my Atanga teaching partners (American) and Otim John (my Ugandan team teacher).
Brenda had come into town and was sitting on a blanket in front of her restaurant. She had been beaten by an unknown assailant the week before. She still looked she was in bad shape, as it was tough for her to hear. As we listened to Otim John, more than a dozen people from the village of all ages and genders made their way to Brenda to inquire about her well being. She greeted all of them with a silent smile, and they then leaned close and whispered their words of encouragement to her. Even the LC3, the highest elected official in the village came by to check on her condition. I do not know how to describe the sadness around these visits, yet the people still came by, got down on the blanket with Brenda and gave words of friendship and kindness.
While all of this was going on, we listened to the everyday words of Otim John, as he described how he had survived, taught, and lived through the days of the LRA occupation. He took great pride in telling us, that he never left. While others sought safety in Gulu and even Kampala. John stayed, he needed to be close to his parents and he tried his best to keep Atanga, the school, going during these days of violence. He talked about having to hide and sleep in the bush and tall grass while the LRA was in town, looking for them with possible kidnapping or murder being the end result. There were just a few years, where the school had to be moved up to Kitgum to survive, but in the end these people, these simple warriors stayed in their towns, and hid from the violence. They talked about hanging out in Brenda’s restaurant during heavy rains, not sleeping and keeping an eye out, up the road for possible signs of the LRA rebels. I am writing this on Wednesday to post this weekend, and I realize that life in Atanga, even in peace is not an easy life. The people work very hard to grow their own food, and to scramble during difficult times. I hope that when I come back to America and encounter small struggles in my daily life, I can remember the courage and the resilience of these people, the kind and courageous men and women of Atanga.
John
The first night at Atanga, we stopped for a cold drink (room temperature) at Brenda’s restaurant. It is called Good Times, and I will take a picture of it eventually for the blog. The miniature bike that bought for me to ride to school and back had broken down, and I had left it up the dirt road with the bicycle repairman. The entire town laughs at me, when I ride by, because the big is way too small for me. Anyway, it was a good happy hour at Brenda’s drinking warm coke with my Atanga teaching partners (American) and Otim John (my Ugandan team teacher).
Brenda had come into town and was sitting on a blanket in front of her restaurant. She had been beaten by an unknown assailant the week before. She still looked she was in bad shape, as it was tough for her to hear. As we listened to Otim John, more than a dozen people from the village of all ages and genders made their way to Brenda to inquire about her well being. She greeted all of them with a silent smile, and they then leaned close and whispered their words of encouragement to her. Even the LC3, the highest elected official in the village came by to check on her condition. I do not know how to describe the sadness around these visits, yet the people still came by, got down on the blanket with Brenda and gave words of friendship and kindness.
While all of this was going on, we listened to the everyday words of Otim John, as he described how he had survived, taught, and lived through the days of the LRA occupation. He took great pride in telling us, that he never left. While others sought safety in Gulu and even Kampala. John stayed, he needed to be close to his parents and he tried his best to keep Atanga, the school, going during these days of violence. He talked about having to hide and sleep in the bush and tall grass while the LRA was in town, looking for them with possible kidnapping or murder being the end result. There were just a few years, where the school had to be moved up to Kitgum to survive, but in the end these people, these simple warriors stayed in their towns, and hid from the violence. They talked about hanging out in Brenda’s restaurant during heavy rains, not sleeping and keeping an eye out, up the road for possible signs of the LRA rebels. I am writing this on Wednesday to post this weekend, and I realize that life in Atanga, even in peace is not an easy life. The people work very hard to grow their own food, and to scramble during difficult times. I hope that when I come back to America and encounter small struggles in my daily life, I can remember the courage and the resilience of these people, the kind and courageous men and women of Atanga.
John
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Only a particial message.
So Bill and I tried the camp shower I brought. Imagine a 4 foot high concrete enclosure with 1 Munu holding a black bag on a short broom while the othe (and that's all I got)
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
June 24 by cell phone text.
Day 2 at Atanga. It remains an amazing place this Africa. There is so much promise out of many students. They will do anything we ask. On the other hand there are so many effects of the war around us. Bill and I were so thirsty we needed liquid. But the stop was awful as a parade of people, each with a different problem approached us. Don’t worry I am fine, but the people of Atanga need your prayers.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Jack Magee offers.
I found another blog of a guy who was in Atanga with Invisible Children last year. He has some photos of Atanga and the school where John is now. This is a chance to see some pictures until John has posted his own.
http://www.jrobuganda.blogspot.com/
http://www.jrobuganda.blogspot.com/
Text Massage from John Tuesday morning in Uganda
First day in Atanga. We got started a couple hours late, but finally made it. The school has nice grounds and the new buildings are better than the ____?
Right next door to me last night was twelve turkeys penned up in a closet.
These text messages are sent to John's Dad Jack. They are corrected to regular composition when I can figure out what I thnk he meant. Do you think the turkeys were in the room next to John or he forgot the words "Coop or pen?"
Right next door to me last night was twelve turkeys penned up in a closet.
These text messages are sent to John's Dad Jack. They are corrected to regular composition when I can figure out what I thnk he meant. Do you think the turkeys were in the room next to John or he forgot the words "Coop or pen?"
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Funny, funny, and funny
Okay, I have been laughing non stop here. Some typical crazy stuff. The "wing, wing, wing" joke has made it to a new group of people. But anytime you spend significant time with a guy named Captain Underwear, funny stuff is going to happen. The same night that Lisa and Mick sang, Mike F. also picked up the guitar. I was just calling him a utility infielder, because he was so versatile, but he picked up the guitar and perfectly sang Mr. Big's "To be with you", so he is now named Mr. Big. Captain Underwear also joined Mick in singing several old Garth Brooks songs and was also good.
There were many westerners there so I started preaching about the lack of XXL shirts for big people who believe in social causes. Hopefully, I have made a small dent in this "large" problem. This morning we got up early--- Captain Underwear, Stephanie, Kevin, Annie, and Lauren and we ventured to Gulu High for the amazing Mass. I wish I could take all of you to this place. The energy and the faith and practice of these students is amazing. They work hard to bring devotion and music to their Sunday service. And they accomplish it with such spirituality and faith. I know I have not posted a picture yet, and I only have five more minutes today, before we leave for St. Jude's orphanage. So I might try to send some stuff to my dad that gets posted. In less than 18 hours, Kevin, Shilling Shilling Bill, and I will be off to Atanga to try our bests and learn from the people of that school.
Wish me luck,
John
There were many westerners there so I started preaching about the lack of XXL shirts for big people who believe in social causes. Hopefully, I have made a small dent in this "large" problem. This morning we got up early--- Captain Underwear, Stephanie, Kevin, Annie, and Lauren and we ventured to Gulu High for the amazing Mass. I wish I could take all of you to this place. The energy and the faith and practice of these students is amazing. They work hard to bring devotion and music to their Sunday service. And they accomplish it with such spirituality and faith. I know I have not posted a picture yet, and I only have five more minutes today, before we leave for St. Jude's orphanage. So I might try to send some stuff to my dad that gets posted. In less than 18 hours, Kevin, Shilling Shilling Bill, and I will be off to Atanga to try our bests and learn from the people of that school.
Wish me luck,
John
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Lisa Swetman is Amazing and so much more!!!!
Okay I am starting out by asking you to leave this page, go to iTunes and buy a song from Lisa Swetman. I am offering a double your money back guarantee, if you do not like her work.
Let's see, where should I start. I found a free few hours in the day and went back to visit Awere SS, my first school here, and still a very special place in my heart. I visited the head teacher Matthew, who is working hard to make his school and his students, something special. He talked to me about encouraging the Discipline of Reading into his school. Many teachers, even maths teachers, know that kids that love to read and do read will have the world opened to them. Matthew showed me the architects plans for a library that will hold more than a 100 students. Awere SS, which has been a displaced school because of the war, is moving back to their old location. I wish Matthew and Awere SS the best and the students there remain phenomenal.
Next, Joanna E. was starting an afternoon Hip-Hop club for Awere students. So I joined her, Lauren H. (my STL buddy), and Abby H. (my arch enemy and best friend) in cajoling the students to dance. The students had a fun time watching 4 munus dancing. They actually played "Single Ladies" and sorry Janet Csolak, I forgot the steps. It was fun, it was also visually fun to see Joanna, a tall young woman who carries herself with such a grace and classiness to "boogie down" with the Awere SS students. Lauren H. competed in a dance off with one young man and held her own until he stood on his head and shoulder after a break dance move. Abby and Joanna also rapped the Fresh Prince.
After that and much sweating in my shirt and tie, we walked to dinner with 20 teachers through Gulu. A white people parade if you will. I stayed back a little to see if a young girl who was hurt was okay. 2 young boys, shouted at me in Lwo and laughed loudly. Two women carrying their babies, asked if I knew what they said. They told me, the boys said, "Look it is Jesus, we knew he would be tall." I laughed with the women, and I guess I have a beard now with that comment.
The dinner was great, I will be working with Otim John. Otim means "born far away" because he was born in Kenya when his father was working there. He is a great man, Shilling Shilling Bill also has a great partner and Kevin seems like he will be a great fit also. I am so so ready to teach. I am so ready for Atanga, but those stories will have to wait for next week. With maybe mini-updates through the week. So many dedicated teachers together have to be good for our students.
LISA SWETMAN, remember the name, she is a vibrant young woman, who snorts when she laughs, she greets each and every person with a smile that is so welcoming and so fresh that you are more alive. I rushed out of the dinner, because she was singing at Bambu. I got there just in time from a boda boda who drove me 80 meters. I did not quite know where I was, so I paid him 1000 /= for his cleverness.
But anyway, most of you know who talented Lisa is because you have downloaded one of her songs and are listening to it know. She sang her songs, but not all of them because not all of her songs were guitar songs. All of you Nerinx students, and my nieces spread the word about her. I want mega downloads from all of you. It is not only great music, but she is my friend and she is over here sharing her talents with the Acholi, so help her out. BUY HER MUSIC--She will be famous some day, and you can say I knew her well. I am seriously negotiating for her to come up to Jazz at the Bistro, Mitch's place, for a September or October show. You are all invited. Her song "Waste of Time" has so much zest and personality in it. Seriously, have you listened to it yet.
Abby H. who loves Lisa's music as much as me, was sitting quietly on the couch, listening, not engaging in any chit chat, just really putting herself with the music. Mick, the Irishmen, was singing when I came in, and I kept thinking quit hogging the guitar--I want to hear my girl. But after Lisa, had played several songs. Mick after talking about Ireland, sang a song about the tough times there. It is by Phil Coulter "The town I love so well". So in the middle of a beautiful Ugandan night surrounded by good friends. I was sitting on a couch with Abby and Lisa and Mick were on another couch facing ours. It might have been one of my favorite songs I have ever heard.
Think for a moment, I was listening to an Irishman with real pride, signing about his people, and how they had overcome so many obstacles and so much violence-- in a country that was trying to do the same thing. How I am so blessed to be in this moment at this time. It truly was beautiful ("Did you know we could do that?"). As I sat there listening, several tears ran down my face. I did not brush them away, as I was afraid, that moving only the slightest would break the magic or disrespect the message that Mick was singing about. Next to me, Abby was just as silent as I.
When he is not the singing, storytelling Irishman in the middle of the bar Mick is part of a Danish NGO, dismantling land mines in Uganda. He is also making sure young children can return to their villages, where there are no RPGs or machine gun bullets that can maim or kill them. He told me he spent 12 years in Anti-Terror in the Irish Army. He told me proudly, "That he will see one Ireland united in his lifetime, but it will not be by their methods (killing and violence)."
"If there is anyone out there who still doubts that our world is place where all things are possible; who still wonders if the dream of our ancestors is alive in our time; who still questions the power of democracy, the power of kindness, or the power of laughter and music" (sorry Barrack, I stole) then I encourage you to come to an uncomfortable couch in a bamboo bar in the middle of dirt roads in the middle of Gulu and listen to a young blonde American angel and an Irishman sing.
I believe in all of us, and sometimes when I forget you all remind me in such
a wonderful way.
Most importantly I believe in you.
Go do something great today! or make the smallest moment great with a smile and a song.
Wanen Lachen,
John
Let's see, where should I start. I found a free few hours in the day and went back to visit Awere SS, my first school here, and still a very special place in my heart. I visited the head teacher Matthew, who is working hard to make his school and his students, something special. He talked to me about encouraging the Discipline of Reading into his school. Many teachers, even maths teachers, know that kids that love to read and do read will have the world opened to them. Matthew showed me the architects plans for a library that will hold more than a 100 students. Awere SS, which has been a displaced school because of the war, is moving back to their old location. I wish Matthew and Awere SS the best and the students there remain phenomenal.
Next, Joanna E. was starting an afternoon Hip-Hop club for Awere students. So I joined her, Lauren H. (my STL buddy), and Abby H. (my arch enemy and best friend) in cajoling the students to dance. The students had a fun time watching 4 munus dancing. They actually played "Single Ladies" and sorry Janet Csolak, I forgot the steps. It was fun, it was also visually fun to see Joanna, a tall young woman who carries herself with such a grace and classiness to "boogie down" with the Awere SS students. Lauren H. competed in a dance off with one young man and held her own until he stood on his head and shoulder after a break dance move. Abby and Joanna also rapped the Fresh Prince.
After that and much sweating in my shirt and tie, we walked to dinner with 20 teachers through Gulu. A white people parade if you will. I stayed back a little to see if a young girl who was hurt was okay. 2 young boys, shouted at me in Lwo and laughed loudly. Two women carrying their babies, asked if I knew what they said. They told me, the boys said, "Look it is Jesus, we knew he would be tall." I laughed with the women, and I guess I have a beard now with that comment.
The dinner was great, I will be working with Otim John. Otim means "born far away" because he was born in Kenya when his father was working there. He is a great man, Shilling Shilling Bill also has a great partner and Kevin seems like he will be a great fit also. I am so so ready to teach. I am so ready for Atanga, but those stories will have to wait for next week. With maybe mini-updates through the week. So many dedicated teachers together have to be good for our students.
LISA SWETMAN, remember the name, she is a vibrant young woman, who snorts when she laughs, she greets each and every person with a smile that is so welcoming and so fresh that you are more alive. I rushed out of the dinner, because she was singing at Bambu. I got there just in time from a boda boda who drove me 80 meters. I did not quite know where I was, so I paid him 1000 /= for his cleverness.
But anyway, most of you know who talented Lisa is because you have downloaded one of her songs and are listening to it know. She sang her songs, but not all of them because not all of her songs were guitar songs. All of you Nerinx students, and my nieces spread the word about her. I want mega downloads from all of you. It is not only great music, but she is my friend and she is over here sharing her talents with the Acholi, so help her out. BUY HER MUSIC--She will be famous some day, and you can say I knew her well. I am seriously negotiating for her to come up to Jazz at the Bistro, Mitch's place, for a September or October show. You are all invited. Her song "Waste of Time" has so much zest and personality in it. Seriously, have you listened to it yet.
Abby H. who loves Lisa's music as much as me, was sitting quietly on the couch, listening, not engaging in any chit chat, just really putting herself with the music. Mick, the Irishmen, was singing when I came in, and I kept thinking quit hogging the guitar--I want to hear my girl. But after Lisa, had played several songs. Mick after talking about Ireland, sang a song about the tough times there. It is by Phil Coulter "The town I love so well". So in the middle of a beautiful Ugandan night surrounded by good friends. I was sitting on a couch with Abby and Lisa and Mick were on another couch facing ours. It might have been one of my favorite songs I have ever heard.
Think for a moment, I was listening to an Irishman with real pride, signing about his people, and how they had overcome so many obstacles and so much violence-- in a country that was trying to do the same thing. How I am so blessed to be in this moment at this time. It truly was beautiful ("Did you know we could do that?"). As I sat there listening, several tears ran down my face. I did not brush them away, as I was afraid, that moving only the slightest would break the magic or disrespect the message that Mick was singing about. Next to me, Abby was just as silent as I.
When he is not the singing, storytelling Irishman in the middle of the bar Mick is part of a Danish NGO, dismantling land mines in Uganda. He is also making sure young children can return to their villages, where there are no RPGs or machine gun bullets that can maim or kill them. He told me he spent 12 years in Anti-Terror in the Irish Army. He told me proudly, "That he will see one Ireland united in his lifetime, but it will not be by their methods (killing and violence)."
"If there is anyone out there who still doubts that our world is place where all things are possible; who still wonders if the dream of our ancestors is alive in our time; who still questions the power of democracy, the power of kindness, or the power of laughter and music" (sorry Barrack, I stole) then I encourage you to come to an uncomfortable couch in a bamboo bar in the middle of dirt roads in the middle of Gulu and listen to a young blonde American angel and an Irishman sing.
I believe in all of us, and sometimes when I forget you all remind me in such
a wonderful way.
Most importantly I believe in you.
Go do something great today! or make the smallest moment great with a smile and a song.
Wanen Lachen,
John
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Group 1, Birthdays and funny guys.
So the mini-blog may have worked. Here is the expanded version.
After a long dinner and several delayed meetings, we finally got to go out and release a little steam. We joined Group 1 at KSP (where I broke the chair last year) for a few refreshments. My fellow teachers encouraged me to have something they called beer. Not a bad taste, for my first time. It was a good time, my shyness was not a problem as I let others take the lead. Mostly I just sat back and observed. Group 1 was celebrating Joanna's birthday so we joined in with a few jokes and a few stories. I let Ryan, and Wild Bill Shilling lead the way, but for some reason when it came to her birthday dance, Joanna chose me. Well, I don't think I knew anything about dancing, but I gave it a try and Joanna was teaching me all kind of new steps. We were going to sing a special happy birthday, but our Theeeeeaaaaaaattttterrrrr people got cold feet. (AQ that is you). I also reacquainted myself with Lauren, an STLer, and Abby, and Runita, and Daneen. Phil went home because he did not want to hear more stories about his Tigers losing to our Cardinals. Lisa, who teaches at a Catholic school in Louisiana, kept telling jokes, but I eventually had to warn her that a lot of her jokes offended my sensibilities. Once we got over that hurdle, things were great. They ordered me a second beer, but I was unable to finish it. But it was a great time had by all. My Atanga partners Shilling Shilling Bill and Kevin (no nickname yet) liked the evening and we ended up in Ryan's room in a small space telling stories. Ryan and Mike have a larger room with a full kitchen, so it is easier to congregate there. A good night, all around.
Earlier in the day, one of the people on the trip, was having a series of misfortunes, and so I, John Magee, walked with her to the market and helped her find a dress. Yes, I know finally a chance to put my expertise in women's fashion into play.
by the way, I told them I was 50 years old, and they believed me.
Having fun before work starts,
John
p.s. I saw Odong Collins Otika today, so hopefully the schedule will allow me to play some basketball with him this weekend.
After a long dinner and several delayed meetings, we finally got to go out and release a little steam. We joined Group 1 at KSP (where I broke the chair last year) for a few refreshments. My fellow teachers encouraged me to have something they called beer. Not a bad taste, for my first time. It was a good time, my shyness was not a problem as I let others take the lead. Mostly I just sat back and observed. Group 1 was celebrating Joanna's birthday so we joined in with a few jokes and a few stories. I let Ryan, and Wild Bill Shilling lead the way, but for some reason when it came to her birthday dance, Joanna chose me. Well, I don't think I knew anything about dancing, but I gave it a try and Joanna was teaching me all kind of new steps. We were going to sing a special happy birthday, but our Theeeeeaaaaaaattttterrrrr people got cold feet. (AQ that is you). I also reacquainted myself with Lauren, an STLer, and Abby, and Runita, and Daneen. Phil went home because he did not want to hear more stories about his Tigers losing to our Cardinals. Lisa, who teaches at a Catholic school in Louisiana, kept telling jokes, but I eventually had to warn her that a lot of her jokes offended my sensibilities. Once we got over that hurdle, things were great. They ordered me a second beer, but I was unable to finish it. But it was a great time had by all. My Atanga partners Shilling Shilling Bill and Kevin (no nickname yet) liked the evening and we ended up in Ryan's room in a small space telling stories. Ryan and Mike have a larger room with a full kitchen, so it is easier to congregate there. A good night, all around.
Earlier in the day, one of the people on the trip, was having a series of misfortunes, and so I, John Magee, walked with her to the market and helped her find a dress. Yes, I know finally a chance to put my expertise in women's fashion into play.
by the way, I told them I was 50 years old, and they believed me.
Having fun before work starts,
John
p.s. I saw Odong Collins Otika today, so hopefully the schedule will allow me to play some basketball with him this weekend.
1st Day in Gulu, 1st Day of Training, Henry has a motorbike
So today was our first day of training, this looks like it could be one of the best groups I have been a part of. Sorry Class of 2008, okay you guys were cooler, but I am excited about the new blood and teacher talent.
I will be going to Atanga with Kevin Brehm and Bill Yukstas, hopefully I spelled both of those right. They were roommates at Penn State, so they have a good friendship, and seem really eager for the challenge at Atanga. I like there energy and commitment, and I am looking forward to working with these 2 new teachers at Atanga. Hopefully, we can continue the legacy of David Heimeck and Josh Robinson, two great teachers from last year. We are living this year in a hotel, Caterina Hotel, for those of you veterans it is in town, but a block east of Kope Cafe. I am in a new internet cafe, run by an American named Justin that has chocolate chip cookies and brownies.
After our meetings, I walked through the market (open-air is not quite right as it has a roof). The married couple, Lance and Justine and Anne Quigley who went with us to the Yankees game were with me. For some reason I was a big attraction in the fish market, as my presence caused quite a ruckus. But I rushed down to here to give everyone some idea of what was going on.
It looks like I am only going to be able to post on the weekends. Although, I did spend two different trips to the Garden City mall to correct that problem. If only I had Michael Coffey here I could have been connected, but Perez the MTN guy, and myself did not possess the knowledge to connect.
Dad, I might try sending you a long message tonight on your phone, kind of as a sample mini-blog post. You should count the words you receive---and try to post them.
Okay, the great moment of the day was as we were walking past the market. Henry, my teaching partner, rode by on his motorbike. A step up from the Budweiser bike he had last year. I was really happy to see him, and I think he was excited about the process of exchanging a year's worth of stories with him.
What should I tell him? The continual insanity of the basketball situation? No, I think this is a time for positives and superlatives. So I will tell him about the wonderful group that just went to Biloxi with me, and how young people can and will change our world. Maybe I will talk to him about the incredible friendship that Frank Hellwig showed me on my final night in America or the Gaffneys fixing my plumbing problem. Or mom and dad once again, covering my disorganization and allowing me to give to so many.
Apwoyo bene,
John
I will be going to Atanga with Kevin Brehm and Bill Yukstas, hopefully I spelled both of those right. They were roommates at Penn State, so they have a good friendship, and seem really eager for the challenge at Atanga. I like there energy and commitment, and I am looking forward to working with these 2 new teachers at Atanga. Hopefully, we can continue the legacy of David Heimeck and Josh Robinson, two great teachers from last year. We are living this year in a hotel, Caterina Hotel, for those of you veterans it is in town, but a block east of Kope Cafe. I am in a new internet cafe, run by an American named Justin that has chocolate chip cookies and brownies.
After our meetings, I walked through the market (open-air is not quite right as it has a roof). The married couple, Lance and Justine and Anne Quigley who went with us to the Yankees game were with me. For some reason I was a big attraction in the fish market, as my presence caused quite a ruckus. But I rushed down to here to give everyone some idea of what was going on.
It looks like I am only going to be able to post on the weekends. Although, I did spend two different trips to the Garden City mall to correct that problem. If only I had Michael Coffey here I could have been connected, but Perez the MTN guy, and myself did not possess the knowledge to connect.
Dad, I might try sending you a long message tonight on your phone, kind of as a sample mini-blog post. You should count the words you receive---and try to post them.
Okay, the great moment of the day was as we were walking past the market. Henry, my teaching partner, rode by on his motorbike. A step up from the Budweiser bike he had last year. I was really happy to see him, and I think he was excited about the process of exchanging a year's worth of stories with him.
What should I tell him? The continual insanity of the basketball situation? No, I think this is a time for positives and superlatives. So I will tell him about the wonderful group that just went to Biloxi with me, and how young people can and will change our world. Maybe I will talk to him about the incredible friendship that Frank Hellwig showed me on my final night in America or the Gaffneys fixing my plumbing problem. Or mom and dad once again, covering my disorganization and allowing me to give to so many.
Apwoyo bene,
John
Monday, June 15, 2009
Today's Hero and Little Kindnesses
Her bio says she is a lifeguard and a swim coach. I have already given her trouble for being a fan of the Brewers. I am not sure who Tammy Ecklund is or who she will become in the next 20 years, but today she escalated herself for a slightly oversized tall guy. After 3 different battles, it looked like I would be sitting in an aisle row, but not the more coveted bulkhead. It was going to be an uncomfortable 8.5 hours, but I figure I could stand for that long, and I had to remember the big prize. This trip was not about JFK--Heathrow or Heathrow--Entebbe, it was going to be about what I could bring to fellow teachers and students of Northern Uganda.
Immediately upon seeing that her seat was the most coveted John Magee seat, Tammy stood up and asked if I wanted to switch. Those seats are more comfortable for almost everyone, but Tammy was willing to give it up in less than 10 seconds. TAMMY ECKLUND you are my hero. The more I know about Tammy the more I like her, but nothing this whole trip can be greater than giving me a seat I could be okay with. When I thanked her later, she told me it was not that big of deal, she considered it a small favor. To Me it was HHHHHuggge!
So what a great way to start this trip, do you ever wonder how often small acts of kindness have great impacts on other lives. In fact, I think we should all think about this---the time you let someone go ahead of you in line in the grocery store. Could it have been that she was tired, harried, and frustrated, and near the end of her rope, when you gave her that small act of kindness that got her through that tough time.
So today, startb thinking about a small sacrifice you can undertake to make someone's life (often a lot diffferent from you) a lot easier. You do it in America, I will enedavor to do it in Africa. Thanks to Tammy Ecklund who did it for me today. And keep me in your thoughts and good prayers, Gulu is tomorrow. Soon after the days at Atanga will start.
thanks Tammy,
John
Immediately upon seeing that her seat was the most coveted John Magee seat, Tammy stood up and asked if I wanted to switch. Those seats are more comfortable for almost everyone, but Tammy was willing to give it up in less than 10 seconds. TAMMY ECKLUND you are my hero. The more I know about Tammy the more I like her, but nothing this whole trip can be greater than giving me a seat I could be okay with. When I thanked her later, she told me it was not that big of deal, she considered it a small favor. To Me it was HHHHHuggge!
So what a great way to start this trip, do you ever wonder how often small acts of kindness have great impacts on other lives. In fact, I think we should all think about this---the time you let someone go ahead of you in line in the grocery store. Could it have been that she was tired, harried, and frustrated, and near the end of her rope, when you gave her that small act of kindness that got her through that tough time.
So today, startb thinking about a small sacrifice you can undertake to make someone's life (often a lot diffferent from you) a lot easier. You do it in America, I will enedavor to do it in Africa. Thanks to Tammy Ecklund who did it for me today. And keep me in your thoughts and good prayers, Gulu is tomorrow. Soon after the days at Atanga will start.
thanks Tammy,
John
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Year 3 Begins
So somewhere last night around 930 pm....I realized I was way behind schedule. Luckily , I have a true friend in Frank Hellwig, who helped me clean up my house and organize materials for packing. Frank and I worked diligently like I always do when I clean, (some of us were just born with the neatness gene).. I finally started packing around 1 am...I was delayed a little by two well wishers named Rusty and Rader. But eventually it was time to pack, I brought to my parents 130 lbs. worth of different sundry items, only 61.2 lbs. would make the cut. Which cost me $50 in St. Louis, but nothing at JFK, as I did my best to schmooze and tell the agent that most of my bag was going to end up with the children of Africa. New items this year, a wiffle ball and since I am at a camp, I brought along a portable shower (okay a five gallon black bag and a nozzle), but still it is something. Packing would have been easy but the Jane and Jack Magee house lost power about 2 am, right when I was hitting my stride. So this trip began with a real Africa moment, packing by candlelight, just like in Gulu. Unfortunately, there were many chairs in my way, before I found the candles and so Jesus and a couple of the saints were extolled to help my path through the darkness. Some might argue with my inflection when I yelled, "Jesus.", but I assure you it was a plaintive cry for help.
A couple of plain rides later I found myself arguing baseball with my friend from last year Matt. He is a Cubs fan so it is not really an argument. Soon Lisa and Sharon and Kate were here. Tammy, a sweet young women, with an amazing propensity to laugh at silly things, she has some Wisconsin ties, so I talked slower and dumbed down my vocabulary. Kate is much more trouble than Tammy, so I felt right at home as Matt and I were soon surrounded by intelligent, committed females.... much like Biloxi last week. Soon, less than a hour, I will be on a plane, with some great old friends, and some great new ones.
Although the challenges this year might be tougher, I am ready. I am ready because I have an amazing family and some really amazing friends, thanks for the shower fix Tim and Terri. But most of all, I am ready because I spent the first week of June with an incredible 62 young women. Who showed me that kindness can win, compassion and laughing are not mutually exclusive, who showed me that when we think of our world with hope and have the courage to ACT, lives can be changed. Maybe just a little bit, maybe a lot, but I will do more in Uganda this year, because it is impossible to leave Biloxi and our group and not feel the energy of the Class of 2009, 2010, and 2011 (shout out DePolo and Jole Blon). Any time, one of you old farts starts talking pessimistic or are blind to the possibilites of our world. Give me a call, because I have seen the future and you need to see it too.
You will enjoy it.
So now it is time for me to shift suddenly, an see the promise of an African nation, and the kindness they welcome me with, and the friendliness of each and every Acholi person I meet. Because I have been blessed to see the commonalities and the talents of young girls from Webster Groves, and soon will see the talents of our Atanga students. Young girls and boys that have had so much despair thrown in their paths, yet wake up every morning ready to work, ready to learn, ready to grow.
Humbled and Honored that I can be known as your son, your friend, your teacher, your brother,
John Magee
A couple of plain rides later I found myself arguing baseball with my friend from last year Matt. He is a Cubs fan so it is not really an argument. Soon Lisa and Sharon and Kate were here. Tammy, a sweet young women, with an amazing propensity to laugh at silly things, she has some Wisconsin ties, so I talked slower and dumbed down my vocabulary. Kate is much more trouble than Tammy, so I felt right at home as Matt and I were soon surrounded by intelligent, committed females.... much like Biloxi last week. Soon, less than a hour, I will be on a plane, with some great old friends, and some great new ones.
Although the challenges this year might be tougher, I am ready. I am ready because I have an amazing family and some really amazing friends, thanks for the shower fix Tim and Terri. But most of all, I am ready because I spent the first week of June with an incredible 62 young women. Who showed me that kindness can win, compassion and laughing are not mutually exclusive, who showed me that when we think of our world with hope and have the courage to ACT, lives can be changed. Maybe just a little bit, maybe a lot, but I will do more in Uganda this year, because it is impossible to leave Biloxi and our group and not feel the energy of the Class of 2009, 2010, and 2011 (shout out DePolo and Jole Blon). Any time, one of you old farts starts talking pessimistic or are blind to the possibilites of our world. Give me a call, because I have seen the future and you need to see it too.
You will enjoy it.
So now it is time for me to shift suddenly, an see the promise of an African nation, and the kindness they welcome me with, and the friendliness of each and every Acholi person I meet. Because I have been blessed to see the commonalities and the talents of young girls from Webster Groves, and soon will see the talents of our Atanga students. Young girls and boys that have had so much despair thrown in their paths, yet wake up every morning ready to work, ready to learn, ready to grow.
Humbled and Honored that I can be known as your son, your friend, your teacher, your brother,
John Magee
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