As we go into the 2nd of our two weeks here at Dagbe, our studies are deepening, along with new experiences and a couple of field trips out of the center.
We are very grateful that we have the weekend to rest from our classes, which are intense in nature - 2 hours per lesson twice each weekday. It is a good thing to rest the hands, feet, and mind, so this weekend we traveled just a few minutes over to the small town of Denu, where the local market happens every fifth day. Students looked for fabric for any remaining pieces of clothing they wanted to have made before we leave, and I went along with our teacher's amazing wife, Gloria, to purchase the raw ingredients for an Indian dinner I'd like to cook for the cooks. We have 3 women making us amazing food three times each day - Rose, Mamuto, and Elizabeth; they are so gracious and kind, so we'd like to offer something in return. I love cooking Indian and the ingredients for a basic saag were easy to find here, and I think they will appreciate the taste. At least, I hope so!
Today we left the center early to travel just a bit deeper into the remote part of the area to visit a Brekete ceremony. Brekete is a local religion also called Kunde, and was brought with those who migrated years ago to the coastal area from the Desert region of Ghana/Togo. We were welcomed into the area where they play music and dance, and then taken into the main room to be greeted formally. The head priest of this group led prayers for us, asking for our health, safety, and solid learning. It was a beautiful thing for the students to experience!
The remainder of the day is open for the students, so they are going to sit on the beach and just rest a bit (we do not swim here, as the Gulf of Guinea is known for immense currents and it's pretty rough) - but getting some ocean breeze and a bit of time to watch the fishing boats is always relaxing.
More soon!
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