Well that is not really true….I
generally know how things work – human being – wise that is…but….this really
was my first sex ed class. We studied
the curriculum and we think we got it right!
Martin came in on day 3 to answer questions and clear up any
misunderstandings due to language…..I can tell you as the mother of 4 who
survived my own puberty as well as the 4 ensuing puberty[ies?] I expected
questions ad infinitum from our 12 – 16 year old Tanzanian kids and they did
not disappoint. “How does the baby get
out?” this from a wide-eyed girl of
about 75 pounds aged 12 – I assured her the woman’s body prepared for the birth
and there was nothing to worry about….my first lie of the day….and so it
went. “Why do babies get born with extra
arms and legs?” this from our Martin destined to drive his secretary at the
university crazy with his obsession with precise and complete answers – Sean
assured him this was very rare and there was often no explanation – this of
course did not satisfy….and so it went.
Martin Mwakajae has a real heart for kids
that is evident the first time you see him in front of a class. He is authentically interested in them and
they know it. He respects them without
letting them lose respect for him. He
patiently took each question and translated our answers – for more than 2
hours. [I was not fooled when Sean was
suddenly called away during the spate of penis and testicle questions – but
then he took a nursing mother question so I guess we are even.]
HIV/AIDS is a serious and
important topic everywhere and certainly in Tanzania. It is a difficult topic to discuss and there
are many widespread myths here. We did
our best to credit the curriculum and be sure we presented the best facts in
the most non-judgemental way possible.
Tough stuff to think about for them.
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| Salome Lena and Bwigane - Gwamaka in the back. |
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