Inspired

Work is finally getting better. There are so many challenges that come with working abroad, let alone at a reputable Pan African Child Rights NGO in Addis Ababa (Diplomat and NGO Central). All I can say is that if I can get through this internship, I can put up with anything! Bring it on!

Frankly speaking, being an intern sucks really bad sometimes. It doesn’t matter if you’re brilliant, qualified, dumb or even lazy. Once you’ve been labeled as the “intern”, you are simply an intern. It takes time to build your credibility, and for me my coworkers are finally permitting me to use my “voice”. It takes time, all things take time. I’m just glad I’m earning their respect, finally.

Most people go abroad to a developing country with the naive belief that they can do so much more and how they can make things right. Well the truth is, there’s a huge disparity between what we want and believe we can do, and what we can REALLY do as interns. It’s not that simple. Some have the heart to do it, but don’t have the means to do so. While others have the means, but don’t care about whatever they’re advocating for. Somehow they always manage to blindly spin out funding proposals like crazy. Damn assembly line.  Anyhow, there’s a lot of bureaucracy and politics. African NGOs are not as transparent as they seem and should be. But I’ve learned to look past the limitations and just embrace the little opportunities I have to make a difference. It doesn’t matter how small and trivial my contribution(s) may seem, at the end of the day, I still contributed.

I’m going to try to use my personal time to work with other organizations, NGOs that really need the help. I really want to make the most of my limited time in Ethiopia. I want to keep that passion and fire going. I want to use my Holy Discontent. I’m not going to let the dull atmosphere of NGOs dampen my spirits. Remember last year’s theme for Genesis? Overflow. I figure if I keep “overflowing”, eventually someone will notice right?!

 

P.S. The sunrise in Addis Ababa was absolutely phenomenal. It didn’t look any different from the sunrise in Canada, but since I was perched high above the city known as the “Roof of Africa”, it was just inspiring …. you don’t get to do that everyday! A priceless gift, THANK YOU.

 

Life is so sweet when you let Him take full reigns. Seriously, just surrender. It’s worth it.