Finding the Island Groove - Journal from Sat. 7.11.09

It was definitely chilly last night, even under my 5 layers of wool blankets. To warm up, Madeline and I set out on a big morning adventure after breakfast. We followed a well-worn set of paths along the ridge of Sancayuni Alto and down into the neighboring community. We clambered down valleys, across fallow fields and community spaces, and enjoyed a view from a mirador near a stand of eucalyptus trees. Making our way back was the most difficult part because we opted to walk along the shore instead of the well-worn path. We slid down a hill on our butts, climbed across giant rocks in the water and narrow paths by cliffs, and we had to ask for directions at one point. But the weather was gorgeous, and we enjoyed every minute of our 3-hour expedition.

Also, we probably passed five people at most during the walk and no tourists. I can't understand how this island has a reputation for being touristy. Yes, it does have tourists, but its inhabitants are still farmers who grow much of their own food, rarely have electricity, and speak Quechua as their first language.

In the afternoon, we had a very successful session in the library. We had the kids write stories in Spanish, most of which turned out to be legends, some that were part of the local oral history. We read with them - everything from Harry Potter to fairy tales. We also played games such as Around the World using simple math, Hangman, and Categories. All these group games were a big hit, and we didn't close up until 4:30. Many of the kids were still milling around happily. And as we left, one of the older boys yelled after us with "see you tomorrow"- one of our vocabulary lessons!

It is amazing to see so many kids voluntarily show up to learn on a Saturday afternoon. In the absence of TV and all our modern distractions, the library is an enjoyable option for them! I love their enthusiasm but wonder about what the future holds for them. Although public universities in Peru are free for those who can pass the entrance exam, I doubt any of these children will get to that level much less even see it as an option. I wonder how many of them have aspirations to move off the island? For those that do, will they find a better life? And I can't help thinking that if these kids I'm working with now were transplanted into life on the mainland, they would lose the passion and enthusiasm they excite me with now.