Day 8

 



Little Masai Kid working Chris and I





Corner Kick!

                This was the last day actually recorded in my journal despite the fact that I was actually there for a few more days. I was unusually aware of the approaching departure date as I arose from bed with the sound of the Masai children frolicking outside, as usual. We met up with everyone for mandazi and chai and soon afterwards left breakfast for lunch, as usual. We walked to another Massai’s Kraal for hot milk and conversation while we roasted goat for lunch. By the time we left it was around 3, Mrs. Askew and Frank wanted to check the hot springs again to see if any work had been accomplished but to our dismay, and subtle expectations little had been ostensibly done. We toured around the hot springs again. I tried to take in everything one last time so that just maybe I could never forget this place, or the people. But with the big soccer game approaching we didn’t have long. We departed for what I would almost consider the big finale of my time time Lesoit. We got to the soccer field  around 5 to play six on six.

Frank and I getting ready to score!

 Majority of the players on the field were at about 15 or 16 years old, but we couldn’t keep up with their skill level. It was a great game with Frank, a few of the teachers, a bunch of students, and a few others playing.  We lost that night 2-1.  The sun began to set on Lesoit, despite our loss it felt good to bond with the Masai of Lesoit. Prior to the game tensions were at an all-time high. It was our practice with Swahili which let us defuse the rigidities. Chris and I found our-selves feeling on edge and often in the midst of stare downs with the masai students right before the game, the type of cold stare that’d make you feel unwelcome. But this was just an example of cultural differences.  Mambo?  ”what’s up?” I’d ask holding out my hand, a large smile would streak across their face as they clutched my hand saying Poa  “Cool” (which was the usual answer in Tanzania). The soccer game served as more than just a field to play.