Hey there. How the hell are you guys? For me, I am fine...
Yes, I know, it has been a few months since I lasted posted. Things have been really busy on my side, in a very good way. I have been channelling my energy toward work and other creative outlets, and have let this blog slide as a consequence. I know this is how you are keeping track of me, making sure that I am still here. For the long delay, I apologize.
I write this post sitting on the back porch of my friend Jenny's amazing homeshare in Rwinkwavu, one of the Partner's In Health sites here in Rwanda. I have an amazing view of the huge valley, and I am at peace. As I am writing, I wonder if subconsciously, or even consciously, if I was avoiding writing on this blog for some reason. With the election, the fear and uncertainty in the US, the inauguration, and the current policies that have been instituted, I wonder if I have been in a state of denial or avoidance perhaps? I was logging on to nbcnews, npr, and cnn way too much around the election and afterwards, devouring all content, trying to make sense of it all. And, in the end, I couldn't. That saddened me, pissed me off, and I wonder if I shut off communication as a way of coping.
So, to save my sanity, I decided on 19 Jan to not consciously watch, read, or listen to any news programs, including my beloved NPR. And, I have kept my promise; it has been 1 month since I started this venture, and spiritually and mentally, I feel good. This has freed up my mind to focus on the many other projects I have going on here in Rwanda. I still hear about what is going on, albeit piecemeal over coffee or dinner with friends, but not devouring the content to the extent that I did pre-inauguration. Don't get me wrong, I am still worried about the direction of my country, and thank god that the citizens of the US are letting their voices heard. Perhaps this will be an enduring legacy of Trump's presidency: a renewed social and political activitism that we have not seen since the 1960s. From my side, I will support those ones who are fighting the good fight, in any way I can.
My friends, things are very good here in Rwanda. I will send updates on my activities, thoughts, anxieties, hopes forwith. In the meantime, I am off to Akagera with a friend of mine from the US to enjoy some wildlife, and camping!
Until next time...
Love life, Find meaning, Be happy,
Craiger
