Afterthoughts…
Hello everyone
As we were travelling back, we did a high-tec high-precision survey of what we thought was important (oh, OK, we actually just jotted down three things we each thought of on a dod of paper).
We’re ALL clear on the need to continue fundraising, and well done to the Orr girls who (correctly, a lot of us think) say that this (and other activities) should be extended further throughout the school, involving more staff and pupils. Other things that are important to us all are the need to get more BAGSS staff and pupils over on a reciprocal visit.
I’ll collate all the responses shortly, and upload them for everyone to see and ponder.
A thought or two from me:
The beauty of the lake was surpassed only by the warmth of the people.
Our pupils were a huge credit to themselves, their folks, and the school community. I hope they know how much I enjoyed their company, but I’d like to put it in writing here, to make it official.
Funny that one of the poorest countries in the world is one of the most welcoming and giving: I’ve thought about that a lot, along with the meaning of the word destitute.
You will all hear lots of tales about the welcome we got from the BAGSS girls, and the send-off: if you weren’t there, listen to the tales, imagine how it was, and then multiply by three: two thrilling occasions that demonstrated in very real ways how much our visit meant, and how important it is for both sides that we continue this partnership, getting the maximum benefit out of it for everyone involved.
Thanks again to Mrs Dallas for undertaking this huge, daunting task and bringing it off so spectacularly.
Neil Innes
Malawi 2008 | Comment (1)
Hey guys!
What I just can’t believe is that the trip is actually over! It seems to have passed so fast but I’m really looking forward to raising more awareness at FHS, fundraising and eventually (fingers crossed) inviting some of the BAGSS girls over here.
I remember the feeling of complete peace at Bandawe most clearly. I settled down after a couple of days of constantly saying, ‘Look at that! Isn’t that just awesome?’ I think we all felt totally at home there and that was all down to the fabulous people and the warm welcome they gave us.
Our experiences there make me want to just go out and change the world now and I am definitely going back to see them again – just try to stop me! All the letters and cards we received from the girls were lovely and I will cherish them, but their singing, laughing and dancing is what I will always keep close to my heart. (Some extra cheese thrown in there especially for Thomas.)
I’m quite nervous about submitting this comment now, because I know all of you will be checking it for horrific grammatical errors, and I’ve already gone over it in a nervous sweat!
Thanks to Mrs D and the team for making this amazing trip possible!
Kathers