We got our final pre-departure instructions from Partners in Development today and I am beginning to realize a little of the adventure in which I'll experience next week. The "B&B" where we'll stay does not have internet (how unimaginable, eh?). How spoiled we are to become comfortable in having free wifi wherever we go....
We'll be sleeping 3-4 to a room and amongst the 15 of us, there will be 4 bathrooms. I'm thinkin' no hairdryer next week..... may go "natural!" We were also cautioned about making promises or giving handouts. We were advised:
We'll be sleeping 3-4 to a room and amongst the 15 of us, there will be 4 bathrooms. I'm thinkin' no hairdryer next week..... may go "natural!" We were also cautioned about making promises or giving handouts. We were advised:
"We are going to a place where the population for generations has felt that their lives have been controlled and dominated by others (in particular, white people). There is ingrained hopelessness, depression, and inertia. Outsiders, especially white people, are looked at with either suspicion or as a resource to get things. I don’t think any of us would be any different if we had faced the generations of oppression and isolation that these folks have faced."
I am so thankful for my coaching background as I have had some time to unlearn my attitude of "being an expert" and rushing in as rescuer to someone in need, and convert that to seeing my clients as "creative, resourceful and whole." My job is being a conduit to their success. My role here will be the same. I will practice curiosity, patience, appreciation, and mindfulness.
I am also recognizing that this journey I am taking will likely last more than just one week. I may only spend one week in Glendora. Yet I am pretty certain that the experience will leave an indelible mark on me and I will be challenged to truly make this experience about them and not about me. It's not about my selflessness or generosity. It's about sharing the blessings I've received, and advocating for greater equality for all.
If you'd like to learn more about Glendora, please see this link to "A Tale of Two Schools:" a PBS special highlighting the Bearden school where the Glendora students attend.
More to come.... thanks for sharing this journey with me.
I am also recognizing that this journey I am taking will likely last more than just one week. I may only spend one week in Glendora. Yet I am pretty certain that the experience will leave an indelible mark on me and I will be challenged to truly make this experience about them and not about me. It's not about my selflessness or generosity. It's about sharing the blessings I've received, and advocating for greater equality for all.
If you'd like to learn more about Glendora, please see this link to "A Tale of Two Schools:" a PBS special highlighting the Bearden school where the Glendora students attend.
More to come.... thanks for sharing this journey with me.
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