New Clothes and Big Dreams

Today was Independence Day. Tomorrow model school starts. I think I’m ready. I’m teaching 9th grade algebra first period then 11th grade trig later in the day. I haven’t even thought about Thursday’s lesson plans, but it’ll happen somehow. Walking in the door and getting started are the hard parts. The rest builds itself from there.

I’m one part nervous, two parts excited. I’m planning to wear my lapa suit to try to make a positive impression—can’t wait to get the others Friday! I’ve already decided I’ll go lapa shopping Saturday and drop more off. I have a really slick collared dress in mind I’d like to try next.

All the kids got new clothes today and in the afternoon they all dressed up and Princess took me and Esther on walkabout. When I got my suits we’re going to go take a picture at a photo booth. Is it lame that I’m really excited about that?

My family is great. I sat on the porch with the kids late last night, playing ‘I spy’ and talking about spelling and dreams. Princess shocked me by saying she wants to be a computer analyst. She’s never used a computer but said she’s very impressed by people who can. I want to contact Thad and see what resources might be available to her. Lango Lippaye has a computer lab, but her school doesn’t. Even if she just starts learning to type, I want to do everything I can to help her. Being able to use a computer will throw the door open on her future job prospects.

She also told me she wants to go to University of Liberia in Monrovia. I was so proud of her and I encouraged her to follow those dreams. I can’t change her life, but I can help her believe that she can, give her hope and a little light.

She is why I came to Africa.