the verbal account

I kept a journal while in Kenya mostly so I would be able to read it later on and remember the details of my trip. But reading it now I realize that it is much more valuable than that: it captured my mental state as I adjusted to the cultural differences and became part of the community over time. My thoughts on different topics and individuals change as I learn and understand more.

You may also notice my language changes as time goes on. I had to adapt my speech patterns so that they could understand me. They are very good at english but when I first arrived I spoke quickly, slurring words and using contractions and phrases that were not familiar to them. They used to tell me that I was far more difficult to understand than the European volunteers who maybe were not so good at english Because it is my native language I don't think about the words and am able to speak too quickly. This change was very apparent if you spoke to me soon after my return (you can ask my parents) but it also is evident more subtly in my writing.

Click on the calendar to the left to read the entry for each day. Happy reading.