Things I learned in Africa

1.  It’s nice to travel with a friend but go out alone sometime and you’ll be surprised at the people you meet.

2.  Leave work AT work.

3.  Don’t try to save everyone, you just cant and you’ll kill yourself trying.

4.  Don’t be afraid to open your heart, love can find you anywhere.

5.  Forgive

6.  Standing with mouth agape may attract flies, but for some things you cant help it.

7.  Being overcome with compassion isn’t the worst thing in the world.

9.  Its ok to cry

10.  Our definition of “roads” isn’t everybody else’s.

11.  AIDS is a chronic disease and people living with it look like you and me.

12.  Every thing in Africa defies the laws of gravity and physics….don’t ask me how.

13.  Jeremy and Camilla are really just nice people--brilliant--- but people.

14.  Try the local food, tis very tasty

15.  Speak the local language, even if just a few works the local people appreciate it.

16.  Watch out for Mzungu prices, they are 2x as high as local prices!

17.  Make friends with the local sellers, they still try to rip you off but they’re much nicer about it.

18.  Find out what accomodations are like BEFORE going somewhere --especially the Pare Mountains-- you may get an interesting surprise if you don’t.

19.  Take 1 day a week (at least) to rejuvenate, you’ll be a better helper for it.

20.  Its alright to disagree, but don’t go home with it.