In Africa, Davids speaks of the relevance of time in ones daily life. They say in Africa, “TIA” (This is Africa). In case you were wondering, TIA did not originate in the film Blood Diamond, but is an actual saying. Africans have all the time in the world. It is a very calm and laid back lifestyle and daily tasks are extremely easy going. If you say you are going to do something at 10 a.m., plan on getting to that part of the day by noon. It is the exact opposite of my non-stop lifestyle at home, and I am settling in very nicely to not being pressured by a restricting time line.
The locals (for the most part) highly enjoy your company and conversation. Some of the conversations we have are a bit limited, but it seems to brighten their day when we can say hello and ask how they are doing in their native language. I have enjoyed getting to know new people. I have also tried my best to keep a keen ear when Davids is speaking and interacting with the locals. Just seeing his expressions and tone of voice speaks measures about the people of Africa. There is an enormous amount of appreciation, respect, and etiquette between the people here. Seeing daily interactions is much more fulfilling than the horrible way that people treat each other back at home. Back at home, people think of Africa as having warlords, children wielding guns, and starvation. These things are true, but are not applied to all aspects of the country and culture. America is not exposed to the beautiful culture and kindness of people in Africa (on a general level).
We have too much apathy. We must relearn what we think we know. I tell you, TIA. Absorb what you have learned so far, and learn what TIA truly means.
You're right, we are very closed minded and can only see, and focus on the bad instead of the good. And don't get too used to the easy lifestyle, you know you'll be pedal to the metal when you come back :)
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