So you think you can dance…

Oh my goodness!!! What a day full of emotions!!! First of all it was the last day at Green Hills today. Leaving our kids is harder than you can imagine. These children are more than students to me…they are the futures of Rwanda and some of my first African best friends. They shared so much with me, their dreams, stories, and love. I will miss them sooo much. All my boys that make me laugh from 7 in the morning till 10:30. They welcomed us with open arms and made us feel so appreciated even though we only stayed with them for two and a half weeks. They were finally all opening up to me and acting like the crazy fun kids that they are and now I must leave. It is most unfair. They all gave me email addresses and you better believe we will keep in touch. I dream everyday (literally) of one of them calling me in six years asking if they could come stay with me while they go to college! I can only dream though. I cannot express to you how genuine and good these children are, and so bright!!! I just know that they will all do great things and be great leaders one day for Rwanda, and make it an even better place.

Ok. Now for the most awesome part of my day. We went to Kicukiro for a “meeting” with the teachers. Meeting meaning seats of honor, refreshments, gifts, speeches, and DANCING!!! That is how we do it in Africa. After the headmaster showed his appreciation for us in words he gave the program over to the children. First the drums started…boom boom boom. I know it is so corny, but I felt like the drum beat was inside my heart. I could not stop clapping and moving in my chair. Then these beautiful Rwandan children’s voices began singing. Ahhhh it was heavenly. Then about ten of the most beautiful little girls came in dancing with their fine silk dresses ( which I’m sure they only use for the most special occasions). Their dancing was beyond graceful it was the most gorgeous thing I have ever seen. It had the same effect on all of us girls, because we all had tears in our eyes and huge grins on our faces the entire time. The best part was when a solo boy with bells on his ankles took the floor. The traditional Rwandan dance for the male is powerful and so very moving and it was done this time by a ten-year old boy. It did not matter, he was the bomb! I lost control! It was great. Then they pulled us all onto the dance floor to dance ( I’m sure they saw me itching to get out of my chair). It was the most fun I have had in a while. It was so easy to dance with them, like it came natural. I loved it. I asked one of the teachers, Claude, if they would let a white girl learn and be on the team. He said of course….we will see if he keeps his promise.

On the way home, Hayley and I made three new best friends. Claire, Chance, and Mignone were the cutest girls you have ever seen. They were behind us when we were walking home and saw me trying to dance Rwandan style. Oops I didn’t think anyone was looking..Anyways they actually ended up having a Fanta with us and then came over later and danced with us at our house. They are absolutely great…and maybe I can stick them in my suitcase to come home with me.

All in all, I am pretty sure today was my favorite. Oh wait, I say that everyday… I love you Rwanda.

-Mere

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