This morning we said goodbye to our sweet hotel staff. My favorite was a woman named Roumy- she was always smiling, would greet us no matter the time every morning and every night when we came back to the hotel, and was always apologizing for her English (which was better than my French). We had the best half English/half French conversations I’ve ever had! When we left, all of the hotel staff came out to take pictures, hug us, and see us off. The hotel owner called us on the phone to say goodbye and wish us well. It was quite an event!
We got checked back into our hotel in Dakar, and then got to go to Village des Arts, which is a center for artists to create, display, and sell their art. There weren’t many artists present today, as Friday is a holy day for Muslims. The ones that were open showcased mixed media art, welded sculptures of iron, furniture made from tires, and very intricate ebony carvings and sculptures. We also got to go into the gallery, which featured art from artists in their teens all the way up to 98 years old!
We then ventured out to a Lebanese restaurant, and had a delicious lunch. I had some really good sausage in a pomegranate sauce- it was tasty. After lunch, we returned back to the hotel to await the arrival of all of our friends to hear about their community visits. You know how it is when you are reunited with an old friend after a few years of not seeing each other? That’s what it felt like to see the other members of our cohort. It was great hearing stories of funny things that happened, unexpected moments of joy, and even moments that were sad. Everyone’s story was different, but we all will leave changed by the depth of this experience! I am so grateful to be a part of this unbelievable program, and hope to encourage others to apply, too!
Car Full of Harmony 
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