Have you ever been on a journey, either physically or metaphorically, that was so full and rich that you knew it would take you a long time to unpack mentally? That’s what this Senegal adventure has been. As I got to talk to each member of my cohort about their experiences here, it is always a story of joy and despair, frustrations and surprises. In every travel situation, there are always things that go a little differently than planned, and that has always been part of the adventure. It is also why I feel so strongly about traveling with my family- it teaches resilience and perseverance, just as my parents taught me the same skills through our family travels when I was a kid.
Our first structured event back in Dakar took place this morning, and it was a debrief session on our experience. We talked through what we went through and how to process our experiences in ways we can communicate it to people who haven’t been to Senegal and won’t necessarily understand with the depth that experience brings. We looked at how our views have changed through what has happened, and how to process the complex layers of emotions we have. It was a very powerful session that felt necessary and appreciated.
To lighten things up a little, we then went to Goree Island for a tour of the whole island, however there was also the dark and moving visit to the House of Slaves. This is the point of no return for slaves as they were sent from that spot on Goree Island to their next stop in the slave trade. Seeing spaces smaller than my master bathroom that would house 40-50 slaves was an experience that left a lasting impression on me.
While on the island, we got a tour of some of the artists’ work, famous houses, and the first Catholic Church of Senegal. It was a beautiful island that cars are not allowed on. We took a ferry to get there, and the souvenir of the trip were these instruments that featured two seed-filled balls held together by a string, called kes-kes. I’m pretty sure everyone in my cohort ended up buying at least one set! I got a lesson on how to play mine, and you’ll be happy to know that I’ll practice on my three flights home starting tomorrow. I’m sure the people around me won’t mind as I perfect my craft. Maybe I’ll get a seat to myself…or a free upgrade…
We ended the evening with dinner and more incredible conversations as we all work to process the things we saw and the beliefs that have changed us. As I start packing up my belongings to get ready to go home, I can’t help but be grateful for this opportunity, and honored to be put with such a fantastic group of teachers.
Car Full of Harmony 
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