Madison Messiah

Peripheral Movement

2010-05-05T15:48:00.001-06:00

Testing to see where this shows up.

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2010-04-27T21:45:00.001-06:00

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Down in the Flood

2008-09-11T19:52:00.001-06:00

The rain is not nearly as fun when you're not out groovin' in it.

A Nod and A Reminisce

2008-09-08T02:21:00.005-06:00

Went for a walk long after midnight tonight. A night ripe for a good saunter. A light rain fell, flipped up the collar of my flannel to keep my neck warm. Just enough comfort to make one smile. And these words once scrawled on the corner of an envelope fell

Sundays are wonderful,

thinking of friends doing well

I can't complain.

Saw your pattern as I walked into the night sky

humming blue.

Stogies? Why not?

2008-05-28T21:22:00.004-06:00

I am officially an uncle.

Exploding into this realm with Japanese action sound effects, Jacob Flanders made his presence known to world at 6:12pm PST.

I think somewhere in the background Tom Petty was playing.

Truthiness

2008-05-13T09:04:00.005-06:00

Perusing some abstracts last night, I came across one addressing the effects of e-medicine on patient-doctor relations. It made me contemplate this scholar's post. I had formerly held the same perspective, as I think most do, however the patient-doctor scenario changed that somewhat.

We generally look at losing personal contact as a negative (with the exception of increasing productivity), but in what scenarios can this make people more comfortable to tell the truth and prove to be beneficial. Clearly it could benefit medicine as people may be more willing to convey their true sexual histories, etc. as they relate to HIV and STDs.

Could this increased level of comfort and trust help domestic violence or sexual assault victims effectively communicate their experiences? Help refugees share their stories? What other contexts could this be applied to?

Onward and Outward

2008-05-12T19:19:00.007-06:00

The past week has seen some seismic movin' and shakin' of future possibilities. While in NOLA for work, I sojourned to the international MPH department at Tulane and scouted the potential of resting my head in the city for a short spell. Despite all the praises I have heard of their international public health department I didn't really think it would emerge as a serious contender; nonetheless the program, encompassing emergency and disaster management, infectious disease, and policy (seemingly tailored for me), combined with city's developing country charm left me contemplating. Still have these programs to check out though and Berkeley is definitely still in the running. Maybe it was all the Sazeracs.

To compound the situation, over some ice cold sweet tea in the steamy Louisiana sun and the waitress calling me darling I got the call up to commence my first international project. A multitude of tea will be consumed in the coming weeks whilst working to identify emerging technologies that could be applied to immunization programs in developing countries.

Here comes the gravy train

To Quote a Phrase: Bring Your Own Boomshakalaka

2008-05-01T22:34:00.004-06:00

Sail is raised, rotated starboard and in pursuit of my Empty Sky.

Wednesday, July 2, 2008

Denver International (DEN) to Seattle/Tacoma Intl (SEA)
Departure (DEN): July 2, 8:38 AM MDT (morning)
Arrival (SEA): July 2, 10:28 AM PDT (morning)

Seattle/Tacoma Intl (SEA) to Tokyo Narita (NRT)
Departure (SEA): July 2, 12:52 PM PDT (afternoon)
Arrival (NRT): July 3, 2:55 PM JST (afternoon)

Tokyo Narita (NRT) to Manila Ninoy Aquino Intl (MNL)
Departure (NRT): July 3, 6:25 PM JST (evening)
Arrival (MNL): July 3, 9:55 PM PHT (evening)

Sunday, July 20, 2008

Manila Ninoy Aquino Intl (MNL) to Hong Kong Int'l (HKG)
Departure (MNL): July 20, 8:25 AM PHT (morning)
Arrival (HKG): July 20, 10:25 AM HKT (morning)

Hong Kong Int'l (HKG) to San Francisco International (SFO)
Departure (HKG): July 20, 11:45 AM HKT (morning)
Arrival (SFO): July 20, 9:10 AM PDT (morning)

San Francisco International (SFO) to Denver International (DEN)
Departure (SFO): July 20, 11:00 AM PDT (morning)
Arrival (DEN): July 20, 2:30 PM MDT (afternoon)

2008-04-27T22:17:00.003-06:00

Soles worn through to the heel on yet another pair of shoes. Next time you see me roamin' the streets it'll be in these bad boys.

Not Jerusalem Cruisers, but thanks to TOMS I won't be the only whipper-snapper strolling the world with new kicks.

Baseball & The Guy Sitting Next to Us

2008-04-24T20:57:00.000-06:00

Three people in the office today, so my colleague Michael and I decided to pull a Ferris and bolt for the smell of stale beer and hot dogs at Coors Field for the 1:05 Rockies v. Cubs game. The relatively new park has definitely lost the new park smell, initiated with a shower of toppled beer and nachos.

A few brews, a lot of shelled peanuts, a BP ball, and a nice sunburn later a stronger bond was forged and the victors smiled. (Though, a little conflicted over the fact that the ballpark offers a footlong brat.)

It never ceases to amaze the amount of info that can sail under the radar in the work environment. During 9 innings of banter I discovered that my colleague worked with Oliver North as part of the task force created when the Iraqis invaded Kuwait in 1990, completed his Master's thesis on switching development indicators from economic to social and the impact of having a social scientist on assessment teams, he studied at AUC, and I received a ton of great advice and connections regarding MPH programs that I am currently looking at.

How much do you really know about the people you work with? The people in your organization? Your teachers?

As we try to expand our networks, I feel that we often look for the big name, "I have an in with Bill Gates" connections and fail to really develop and appreciate the potential of more intimate connections.

Veiled Season

2008-04-22T21:10:00.000-06:00

It's rained a lot this week, little streams clearing the streets. People pack the bar patios across the street from my house on a sunny afternoon, clutching to the warmth and promise of the summer. Words from the patios resonate through my apartment, some clearly audible, others muffled by the undertones.

These days the weather fluctuates from 80 to snowing in the matter of an evening, a cocktail or two. Thus is the rub.

Rollercoasters Gotta Roll to the Bottom, If You Want to Climb to the Top Again

2008-04-14T23:18:00.000-06:00

I'm there.

Failing to Understand

2008-04-03T00:14:00.000-06:00

"Bilingual health care providers: the provider needs to be a provider first, not a provider AND interpreter—have trained interpreter even with bilingual providers" - Cambio de Colores 2004, Annual Conference

While I think that language concessions should be made so that individuals are able to access and understand health care, education, legal info, etc.; I think demands such as this are ridiculous. To divert money from other health services to have an interpreter in addition to a bilingual provider is a huge waste of public resources. If individuals are able to communicate and get the care they require, then where is the need?

The more research I've done on the topic of health care and Latinos in the Midwest in general, the more questions have arisen in my mind. Most of the material I have covered thus far has focused on providing cultural sensitivity, cultural competence, and language training for the members of communities facing a large immigration influx. ESL is the only training mentioned as necessary for immigrants. I'm surprised by the seemingly one-way street these recommendations have taken. Wouldn't it be beneficial to all to receive cultural sensitivity training? Clearly you want to increase understanding and minimize potential for discrimination/racism on the local side, but at the same time immigrants are moving into a new culture. It should be a situation of both sides working to establish mutual understanding. Isn't it pertinent to train immigrants on the cultural norms of the society they are entering? I have yet to come across a document suggesting such an action.

Cogs still in motion and more to come on this.

My Witness is the Empty Sky

2008-04-01T20:23:00.000-06:00

8:34 pm and finally leaving the office.

Meandering down to My Brothers' Bar, the old Kerouac joint which used to skirt the train yards (now neighboring REI). Regardless some libations, a vegetarian reuben, and Bird: the quintessential cap.

Not night cap, not Tap cap, but jive cap.

Revisited

2008-04-01T00:31:00.000-06:00

A number of things came to light during my short jaunt to Orlando: a greater degree of common understanding and a movement back towards a greater degree of patience. Sitting in the hot tub at night talking with Jason, a dude from Jacksonville who brought supplies and the motto, “don’t worry about it, we’re on vacation”, Angie a 43 year-old visiting with her daughter and niece before she returned to NJ for a serious surgery, a couple of Pennsylvania boys who had been hitting the gin a bit too hard resulting in John Smith singing “Just Around the Riverbend” from Pocahatas, and Jason a man meeting his 8 year-old daughter for the first time, trying to fulfill his responsibilities as a father and partner and wanting to start it in the "happiest place on Earth"; I realized that although Orlando isn’t my Dream, it’s a dream to many and there is something admirable in that.

There is something admirable in the family who may never have been outside the state saving up money to come to Orlando to see the exotic palm trees and eat Greek food. It’s someone’s dream to visit the place where their kids will have the time of their lives and speak of nothing other than meeting Mickey Mouse for the next 3 weeks. There is something of value in Florida. It’s a place “just around the river bend”, where people can come to forget about their problems for a while. Something that is not all that uncommon from many a international experience: positioning of yourself in unfamiliar surroundings tends to make you contemplate things other than expected in your place of origin. I sometimes forget that the things common to me are not common to all in this country.

Returnin' Home with Boot Heels Worn

2008-03-30T15:02:00.000-06:00

Fri, Apr 11, 2008 - Denver, CO (DEN) to Chicago, IL (ORD)
Depart: DEN 10:31 AM
Arrive: DSM 01:20 PM

Depart: DSM 01:41 PM
Arrive: ORD 02:59 PM

Mon, Apr 14, 2008 - Chicago, IL (ORD) to Denver, CO (DEN)
Depart: ORD 06:05 AM
Arrive: DEN 07:34 AM

I Am Just a Satellite

2008-03-26T20:35:00.000-06:00

Just had a conversation that put into perspective just how far we need to go with health education, everywhere.

"Well condoms can't prevent HIV, right? Isn't it small enough that it goes right through?"

Often it is perceived that HIV prevention is a strategy that is a one-time shot. You teach someone the facts once and that's it. Unfortunately, the more experience I get in the area, the more I begin to think that this isn't the case. Even though information may not be new in the field (or even truthful), if an individual hears something new from a friend, it is the latest information for them, sometimes perceived to trump facts they have gotten in the past.

Interesting to consider as more dollars flow towards care and treatment. Not saying that they shouldn't as that clearly has its own merits and acts as somewhat of a prevention strategy in its own right, but something to consider.

Jump-to-Conclusions Mat: Wearing My Leisure Suit, When It Should've Been A Space Suit

2008-03-25T23:23:00.000-06:00

Last year, I had an idea very similar to this one from Hopkins.

I was just one or two technological generations behind. I was developing the idea of using mobile libraries or "book mobiles" that would work to help improve literacy, health knowledge, and access to care.

Not letting it die yet.

Oh, I Didn't Give You the Tour

2008-03-25T00:36:00.001-06:00

Denver Nightlights
Originally uploaded by madisonmessiah

A little view from the corner my apartment stands on. Going to start giving some more updates about the movers, shakers, & surroundings in the city.

This is the only view in all of Denver where the skyline doesn't look phallic.

Much pondering occurs on an eve such as this:

A third of the world's population is infected with TB.

For a while I got caught too caught up in the bureaucracy.

Flintstones vitamins are a good public health strategy.

I should probably bite the bullet and start buying organic milk.

Teaching is a pretty solid way to get to know a society, your own and other's.

I Gotta A Couple A' Throwbacks

2008-03-22T19:30:00.000-06:00

Aside from reminding me of AliG, it was a bit strange this afternoon watching Flowers and Butch, both of whom played against my high school team, while playing shuffleboard with the guy who sold me liquor all year as a freshman at UW.

Keep On Goin' Y'all

2008-03-19T13:27:00.001-06:00

I realized in considering Nomadfest Part Deux that I have failed to announce the entrance of a little shaver of the male gender who will soon be entering the world.

No it's not mine, my sister is due on June 5.

Any suggestions on what I should try to make his first word be?

A Legacy...or Two

2008-03-18T10:15:00.000-06:00

A little compare and contrast from the National Portrait Gallery in D.C.

He even has a newspaper in his hand. Interested to see what W's will look like.

And a bit of flash:

Bring Me Your Finest Muenster

2008-03-04T11:41:00.000-07:00

Monday Night 2:30 pm: Our office is reprimanded by HQ for not following company policy, stating that a wine & cheese happy hour should commence every Friday at 3:30 pm.

Tuesday Morning 11:00 am: A new load of wine and beer appears in our office.

Yahtzee!

I'll Pawn My Watch & Chain and Go Home

2008-02-28T17:52:00.000-07:00

Strolling the streets of Salt Lake City with a bottle of wine, a journal, a sunset, and some old shoes that need to get broken in again.

I Have to Celebrate You Baby

2008-02-27T18:31:00.000-07:00

Sitting in the optometrist’s chair the other day, the typical discussion ensued…”What brings you to Denver?” and whatnot. I decided to throw the brick just one more time, changing coordinates I ask, “Have you ever been abroad?” It took an instant for the question to settle in this locale, once the resting place of the adventurous pushing westward. The response was slow, preceded by a cocked head and narrowing of the eyes as if trying to gauge the messenger. It was the only response I needed. She expressed her regrets at not having done so, but the hopes that her 18 year-old son would pursue what lies beyond our borders.

The badge of the internationally traveled is one that requires no introduction. It is one that emanates from the words that spill from his mouth, the way he carries himself, and his willingness to help another in an unfamiliar situation. You can see it in the way he interacts with those of different surroundings. It often presents itself in a clarity of purpose and direction, intermingled with a distant struggle or confusion.

The depths to which the international experience penetrates the marrow have oft been alluded to, but the degree seldom understood.

Busted Flat

2008-02-27T17:08:00.000-07:00

A little patience and professional courtesy pays off, for both parties.

I have been organizing the Latino AIDS Institute for the past few moons. Mix-ups went down, things got shaken up, thus is the Pursuit. But the vibe remained cordial throughout and now both parties are set to enjoy this radiant day on the salt flats.

The hotel didn't have to deal with a ranting maniac, who might go Mike Tyson on the manager's posterior.

And I am sitting on the top floor of the Hilton Salt Lake City in the Executive Suite, stocked with complimentary beverages of the adult effect.

Neither of us sacrificing the things that each required, but both getting a little tap on the bottom.

It Seems It's Not the Recipe, It's Got to Be the Cook

2008-02-16T21:50:00.000-07:00

As of late, I've pondered the reasons that organizations hire the folks they do. Kimchi is in the cask. And from my experience, the common trend seems to be that the people are hired for their character and what they have done, or at least attempted. I couldn't count the number of conversations I've had since starting my job that began, "Well when I got into this field I knew very little about it, but I had done...that appealed..."

It would seem as though good organizations hire people on character, innovation, and drive, assuming that those individuals will catch up on the knowledge that can be gained from reading articles or books.

When was the last time you were asked a question regarding your knowledge of a topic in an interview?

I Awoke on a Train in the Night

2008-02-06T23:55:00.000-07:00

Almost two years now, these kids continue to trace my steps...the emotions are still unclear.

Back to 1984

2008-02-01T18:00:00.000-07:00

Simply glorious. Simply powerful. My after-hours self-tour of the sights in DC, immaculate white structures honoring those of yesteryear in Pursuit and capped off with a police bike patrol in which the captain proclaimed in a foreboding voice, "Good evening citizen."

George Orwell would have been proud.

Ramblin' on the Run

2008-01-29T15:35:00.000-07:00

There were too many thoughts and too many different threads going to respond separately so I shall attempt to piece it together here.

First, I am still failing to understand why we can't take people on. Maybe less than past huge recruitments, but surely many more than maintaining our current numbers can be done. Why can't this happen simultaneously with the necessary structural/strategic changes?

On assuming increased impact requires increased membership.

Not "requires", but "is encouraged by". I feel that most people in the org. or that are interested in the org. would like to pursue a T-ship, but don't/can't for a certain reason. Some may not pursue its excellence, but would efforts to focus on the existing members really change their reasons for not going in the first place? Would it not be better to focus on a wider pool of potential participants and have those who are not able enjoy the fringe benefits of AIESEC (which are actually incredibly valuable). This is especially something to consider as the costs of tuition and traineeships goes up (especially with this push towards packages). Of course we should continue to push the T-ship (aka Holy Grail), just to be clear.

There are many different levels of impact, which I think has yet to be addressed. Yes, the traineeship is the ultimate for many a good reason. The domestic work undeniably lags behind. What if the amount of impact on the domestic side could be enhanced to at least close in on that of the T-ship? Less focus on the campus and more focus on the community?

I've always thought of citing "lack of work" as poor form, especially in our LC.

We all know the mission ...international understanding & cooperation... Why does this necessitate taking a trip? How much have we done to increase the understanding and cooperation of international communities here. Right now we have primaries occurring with reports that large numbers of Latinos/Hispanics aren't voting for a candidate because he is African-American. Yesterday, Danielle was at a laundry-mat filled with dozens of Latino boys skipping school. You think the school is understanding culture effectively? What if @ played a role in providing cultural competency training for schools? Is that outside our mission? Just a thought.

If "lack of work" is what is holding us back from growing that is pretty weak sauce. What other ways can we work towards our mission?

As for the concept of community and its state in Madison, it is difficult for me to comment without being there, but in general I will say this. A sense of community is of vital importance for an LC, both for member integration and retention and as the presence we want to emanate. Williams and I have led numerous szechuans to this effect, however eliminating "factions" is not vital. There are groups of people that get along better with some than with others. There is no getting around it, though we can work to minimize the effects. The important part is that every member has someone he/she can identify with and engage, that established members reach out to those less established, and that these groups aren't points of conflict or exclusion.

Limiting the size of the LC will not ensure the maintenance of this culture, only those within the LC can ensure that this legacy continues. This is something that can permeate through numbers by individuals making the effort to connect and reach out to as many people around them as is humanly possible.

Madison 10-hour road trips are not things of the past as evident from the first week in January and the Rocky Mountain Ragtag Team. I wish I could say the same for national. I too would hate to have Madison suffer a similar fate.

But while all others' communities fell, we kept it alive and those now continue to do so.

If people keep it alive, it will transcend numbers.

I Dreamed I Saw St. Augustine

2008-01-28T22:44:00.000-07:00

Upon his back he wore a cross of gold satin, across his chest hung a tool used to chisel melodic cadence. My fist pumped and my feet boogied atop a wobbly chair whilst amber waves flowed. A trusty companion and I were invited on stage to share in a diddy. And just as we were singing, "...get lucky sometimes!" it ended.

I awoke this morning to the old lady asking why I was smiling like a six year-old, pumping my fist, and shaking my head around...while sleeping.

New Verse, Same Bass Line

2008-01-19T17:34:00.000-07:00

From one generation...

...to the next.

Always some post-WSC glory. I think Jason is chosen by God.

Eve of Destruction

2008-01-15T22:55:00.000-07:00

So in November I signed up as a free agent for a dodgeball league with PlayCoed. Never got anything so I thought nothing of it. A volley unreturned.

5 minutes ago I got an email informing me that my team, "Highballers", has a game on Thursday.

Watch little Wayne's legs kick.

Glad He's Writing for the Washington Post

2008-01-12T11:37:00.000-07:00

I was reading this article on the appeal of Barack Obama to certain clevages of American society and was dumbstruck by the following comment:

"As much Kansan as Kenyan, Obama does not descend from families who suffered American slavery or Jim Crow. His family tree has fewer slaves than slaveholders, fewer chains than Cheneys."

Clearly Mr. Greenberg has about as much command of East African and colonial histories as Martha Stewart has of muscle cars and Easy Mac. Greenberg might want to look into these things before making sweeping statements concerning an individual's lineage.

Talked About Waves with an Applied Mathematician Last Night, But All I Could Think About Were Vibes

2007-12-25T13:45:00.000-07:00

These hillbilly lads (and lady) from Fond du Lac are puttin' out some really solid bluegrass music, especially considering they are only 18. Big fan of "Came Like the Wind". Waiting for the Fondy Pride song.

If that didn't get your feet movin' Vuta Pumz should.

And if you're reading this at bedtime try Kings of Convenience or

Chris Garneau and check out Baby's Romance.

Perry Would Be Proud

2007-12-21T22:39:00.000-07:00

Upon further inspection of the office refrigerator some interesting observations:

1. A constant stock of various six-packs appears, but I never actually see anyone drinking them. Coffee cups will be under intense scrutiny in the future.

2. Ditto with bottles of wine.

3. We have the word magnets you can use to make sentences on our fridge. Of the selections, "pussy" and "twat". A bit peculiar considering I work in an office overwhelmingly inhabited by women (17:3). I'm going to attribute it to an overuse of "vagina" during official work and a need for variety.

Favorite created phrase: "rock make me stop, when my shake gets old"

Plotting

2007-12-21T22:29:00.000-07:00

Sitting in the office at 6pm the Friday before Christmas, reclined in my chair, feet on the desk, drinking wine leftover from the afternoon office party, devising ways to shake things up.

This feels about right.

40 Hours to Freedom

2007-12-13T17:38:00.000-07:00

It's always great when you stroll into the office clad in jeans and a T-shirt only to realize at 5:23pm that today is, in fact, not casual Friday. That would be tomorrow.

The Boss

2007-12-12T20:31:00.000-07:00

The first line of the following selection was of particular interest to me. In Thailand, there was a reason the brothels got excited anytime a Caucasian male in a tie wandered anywhere in the vicinity of their establishment. It was immediately clear, and disheartening. But that is neither here nor there.

Joel Lamstein, JSI president made the following statement
regarding the proposed regulations (on HIV+ individuals wishing to enter the U.S.):

"...Furthermore, while U.S. citizens can and do travel to other
countries for pleasure and business without restrictions, we
should not erect discriminatory barriers against those from other
countries for a chronic, treatable disease that is not casually
spread. It's past time for political decisions to be informed by
the very science our own government has so appropriately
supported."

Under the current regulations, it is possible for HIV-positive
visitors to seek a "waiver" to the HIV ban, allowing them to
visit the U.S. for up to 30 days. Such waivers are capriciously
granted and difficult to obtain and the visitor's passport is
permanently stamped to indicate that the bearer is HIV positive,
a fact which for all intents and purposes becomes publicly
disclosed. New regulations would require the visitor to
demonstrate that he or she has no HIV symptoms, can supply
evidence that the danger he or she poses to public health is
minimal, and that he or she has an adequate supply of medication
for the trip—even for persons who are not clinically eligible to
be on ARVs. Under the current system and proposed regulations,
such potential visitors must also prove that they have received
comprehensive counseling about HIV transmission and harm
reduction, and show that they have adequate funding to pay for
any medical care they may require. Such stipulations are not
placed on visitors with heart conditions, diabetes, or other
chronic and costly medical conditions. The current law—and the
proposed regulations—violate the human rights to freedom of
movement, freedom from discrimination, and privacy."

Ain't No Food Upon the Table, You Hear the Same Old Thing

2007-12-11T22:41:00.000-07:00

This article from Guy Kawasaki's blog, while presented in the context of entrepreneurs, seems especially applicable to schools in impoverished communities, and I suppose many elements of these communities in general (i.e. incarceration, etc).

On a related side note, I was at a conference in Atlanta last week when a gentleman introduced the million dollar block concept. It'd be interesting to see what could happen if these sums were invested in communities, not spent on them.

Additionally, I'm curious if there have been any studies on the effect "enhanced cognitive load" on health and risk behaviors.

When the Walls Came Down

2007-12-10T17:07:00.000-07:00

Revamping the pad. Like any good mullet or illegal establishment
...business in the front, party in the back.

Throne yet to be secured.

Top of the World Tonight, And I Ain't Comin' Down

2007-12-10T00:19:00.000-07:00

6 inches of freshly fallen flakes, a mandate, dust off the board.

Waxed and waiting, hopped in my chariot to the nearest mount. Now growing up in Wisconsin I thought I knew pretty much everything a mortal could about the coldest of seasons, alas I was wrong. I have never seen anything quite like that which I saw on the way to Nederland today. Trees not outlined, but enveloped in white, so much so that one could not discern a branch at all. Merely a form-fitting sleeve of powder. Below, a partially frozen river ran, carving twisting patterns in the snow and ice, sliding over fallen trees, leaving droplets at the end of icicles, dwarfed by the mass of rock that skirted its immediate edge. Ridges of evergreen, heavy with the night's new deposit of powder, but resilient in the early morning sun.

As for the riding, took a while to take off the training wheels again. Even once had a 6 year-old girl in a light purple ski suit ask if I was okay. Affirmative.

I Always Play A Bit Bitchy

2007-12-09T23:19:00.000-07:00

Dear King Soopers:

Despite your sweet name, throwing cucumbers, tomatoes, and peanuts in a bowl with cabbage does not equate to "Spicy Thai Slaw".

Your loving but devastated customer,
Ryan

But We Haven't Missed a Day of Eating Good Food Yet, So Far

2007-11-23T22:17:00.000-07:00

The eve of Thanksgiving has traditionally been one of great anticipation...expectation. This night of yesteryear has been highlighted with glimpses of brilliance: rhythmic vibrations resonating ear drums and expo halls, lips quivering to add depth and breadth to the chorus, and couch cushions displaced in order to offer shirtless, primal appeasement to the gods. Rome would've been proud.

This autumn brought different surroundings and circumstances. The colors to which I had become so accustomed seemed faded. I pushed forth into the abyss in search of companionship. What I found was something completely different. An over-sized bar (as all in Denver would appear to be), scattered with sparse bodies slowly lifting glasses to chapped lips, an aging woman's interpretation of Motley Crew karaoke blaring overhead.

I plunged into the night, finally arriving at a storefront no greater than 4 meters across. But the hazy, cavernous depths that lie behind held the night's rhythmic treasures. And jiving ensued.

The barkeep pointed to the clock, the radiant hours were put away, and the night air was ours. The haze started to settle on this clear night and each breath was crisp. And on my trek home I crossed paths with another night wanderer, wielding a pot. Upon further inquiry of this odd circumstance I was informed and invited to a Thanksgiving gathering the coming day.

I strode into the living quarters, now privy to the dynamics of the crowd, as costumes abound, I quickly discovered the heavy concentration of Naropa University graduate students pursuing the hallowed art of poetics. Men in flapper garb, sheriffs, and hipster jeans accessorized the debate over the sexual orientation of 1930s actors. The festivities carried on in a quite unpredictable meter, but the verbal jive was appreciated and enjoyed.

But in spite of all the laughter and camaraderie, I found myself late-in-the-evening, reclining against the base of the couch, egg nog and Early Times in hand, thinking back to feasts of the past and the faces of those who partook. And I smiled, and was promptly order to top off my glass. Cheers

Betty Was Dumb

2007-11-18T00:29:00.000-07:00

A Malay colega recently directed me to this article in the Washington Post on the difficulties of getting a job in the "public interest" sector. Now I don't know about you folks, but this article was about as frustrating as trying to find a $5 dollar pitcher in NYC (if you don't count the Patriot).

I think the most mind-numbing problem with the graduates in this article is their constant comparison of non-profit pay scales to those of the for-profit sector. Of course they're not going to be similar, and to be honest if you think they should be I don't think you should be in the non-profit sector. Period. With the way programs are currently funded it would be ridiculous to deviate funds from already meager program budgets to pay higher salaries so employees can "feel grown-up" like those in for-profit endeavors, or for most other reasons. Personally, the "I feel so inadequate in comparison to my investment banking friends" comment made me think there are other issues with this girl. This is not to say higher salaries are a lost cause, but that would require a complete reconstruction of funding sources which will take time. The recent upswing of social entrepreneurship introduces new possibility which could potentially alter this system, and other methods of funding are hopefully yet to be developed.

The competitiveness of the public interest sector is undeniable, but it's frustrating to see it consistently portrayed as a negative. If people want to contribute to society through this sector I think that's fantastic. There's certainly plenty of work to be done. With the increasing interest in the field, the scenario most commonly depicted seems to be "How long will these graduates deliver pizza before they realize their error and succumb to the for-profit sector?" I think the question we should be asking is, "How can current members of this sector and educational institutions better enable interested parties to participate, both directly and indirectly?" I think organizations like Kiva and TOMS Shoes have started to delve into the possibilities of the indirect realm. Educational institutions could do more to fuse cerebral and skill-based degrees.

The unspoken message in this article is the deficiency of many social science degrees at any level in the public interest sector. Usually, international relations-type degrees don't attach a skill set that would allow you train another individual in a given area. You can't teach someone how to irrigate more effectively, as an engineer could. You can't teach someone how to spread the word about something, as a marketing major could. You can't teach people medicine or good business/organizational practices. If you can, in fact, do these things it's usually because of skills you've learned outside of your course work. Of course in all areas you need experience, but there is a skill attached that you can pass to someone else. This is something I have contemplated a lot since I spent time at the refugee camp in Rwanda. Being there made me realize that I had little to offer to the community directly, but was only useful at a policy and cerebral level. This isn't to say that these degrees are useless. They provide a spectacular framework and context from which to build upon, but you must build upon this framework with a skill. I think it took a Master's degree for the grads in this article to begin to internalize this.

Or maybe they haven't.

Paul and the Technicolor Dream Coat

2007-11-11T02:23:00.000-07:00

Awaiting the stage curtains to be drawn and the elegant Nancy Wilson to fill the room with stimuli, another performer caught my attention. Paul, the executive director of the National Minority AIDS Council (NMAC) and host of the United States Conference on AIDS, had captivated the audience. Donning a suit jacket even the Beach Boys would have envied, white overlaid with what seemed to be green and blue brush strokes, this small, Japanese-descendant commanded the room. The usual "clink" of silverware on dishes was inaudible, the usual mumbling non-existent, except for the occasional outburst of laughter. It was instantly obvious the amount of respect this gentleman commanded, from the government bureaucrats to the veteran community workers. As I watched this gentleman stride across the stage to emphatic applause, I looked around the room at our colleagues. I smiled and marked it.

I think a number of folks come out of college raring to get out and blow shit up. And they hit their first job and put the suit on because it's what's expected. But they line the suit with some flashy material, so when the opportunity presents itself they can turn that sucker inside-out and shake things up. But as they wait the flashy material fades and the suit becomes monochrome. The flash is forgotten.

Paul reminds people of that flash. He embodies the flash. He bid his time, all the while building cred, and is now in a position to completely show that flash and nurture it in others.

Denver, Baby, Denver

2007-09-18T11:50:00.000-06:00

The tedious job search may rapidly screech to a halt this coming week as Denver beckons offering promises of gainful employment, majestic mountains, and a sub=par baseball team. Free flight? Why not?...Stogies? Why not?

Any words from the wise on how to maintain in Denver?

It Takes A Lot to Laugh, It Takes A Train To Cry

2007-09-12T00:31:00.000-06:00

On this eve, autumn slowly creeping, I tip my hat to the finest gentleman I have come to know, wishing him the best on his sojourn. A sly smile forms thinking of what lies behind, but more for what lies ahead.

It's been a good run. More to come...

I Gotta Get Down, Gotta Get Down to the Mine

2007-08-28T09:08:00.000-06:00

My potential future employer made an appearance on the Colbert Report, which in my book gives him mondo cred.

Interview in 49 minutes.

The Hands of Harlem Cannot Hold You to Its Streets

2007-07-18T21:00:00.000-06:00

Something's brewing.

And it's not in Cameroon.

I Like Your Big Refridgerator

2007-07-16T09:15:00.000-06:00

Walking into the Unitarian Church in Bethlem, PA made me more than a bit skeptical of the outcome of this two-hour journey in a Civic hatchback with two grey-haired ladies. But I had been promised a night of splendor, and had given my word. Down the stairs into the basement of the church, worried that I was secretly becoming the subject of a modern Inquisition. But alas, a gymnasium complete with wood framed basketball hoops appeared, mandolin tuning up in the background. The caller selected his dances from a recipe box, the fans were turned on, sweatbands applied. The guitar spit a little riff, followed by a few plucks of the bass, quick-paced fiddle, a few scratches on the washboard, and the room exploded with music and movement. Switching partners, staring eyes, remember the steps. If you get it wrong, someone will pull you into the right place. Weaving between sixty year old men donning basketball shorts, knee high socks and headbands and women (and a few men) sporting long skirts. I gypsied and promenaded 'til the midnight oil was drained.

The night concluded with a little lesson from a 70 year old man, while my partner was standing on my left. "Women are always on the right. Not only in dancing, but in life in general. Just smile and nod a lot. Plus I really like this cuz it's kinda like a bunch of 10-second affairs. Watch out for some of these ladies, they look you in the eye, turn on the sex appeal and you can't remember how to dance." Keep in mind I was the only one even close to my age group.

Contra dancing inashisha pati.

Fighting Sleep With Windows Down

2007-07-09T20:27:00.000-06:00

A 14 hour journey ends in the rolling Poconos, a seemingly constant abundance of sun drifting throught the trees. The journey was wholesome, windows down reminding me of the treachors of AC. Not quite the same experience as cruising down the night highway accented by red waning moon and the rush of wind trying to overpower the song on the radio.

Picked up a Deadhead hitchhiker in eastern Penn who quickly informed me after I regained consciousness from the pungent "natural" aroma that he had just been busted with a bunch of mushrooms, adding "I was pissed cuz I was on a phatty trip too." I asked him what his favorite show was he stared at me like I had just asked what his favorite deodorant was and replied, "The Dead, no question." and returned to looking out the window before rattling off some figures on the number of shows he'd been too. He was just at a festival in Ohio and was hitching to NYC to meet his family who is also touring and hit another festival featuring the leading voice of the Dead. Carnies and Deadheads must have evolved along a similar lineage.

Groundbreaking discoveries for the day:
Tiny local town = $.50 books at the library & $1 High Life pints "All Day, Everyday"
Basement music room at HI contains stores of sheet music including the entire "Tommy" performance and Neil Diamond.

Gone Are the Days When the Ox Fall Down, Pick Up the Plow and Plow the Fields Around

2007-06-14T22:21:00.000-06:00

Anyone know of any good/bad international health insurance providers?

Saddle Up With My Big White Boots, Turn Me on Her and Turn Her Loose

2007-06-08T20:40:00.002-06:00

I just completed a call that will put me in Cameroon for one year come mid-September. Rollin' the dice.

Maybe I'll run into him.

Picture Yourself on a Boat on a River

2007-05-18T20:00:00.000-06:00

Finding out you just got a job in Cameroon makes it really difficult to finish your last paper of your undergraduate career.

Now it's just a matter of, do I accept?

He Cracks A Wicked Smile, Has His Foot Pressed to the Floor

2007-05-17T13:38:00.000-06:00

Thus far in my final exams and papers I have used the phrase "early and often" five times. I think I am going to continue this trend and push the limits with the terminology.

Update: I am getting progressively more horizontal

Oh How He Would Loose It Then

2007-05-16T00:59:00.002-06:00

Sitting here working on papers as I can hear the jovial laughter of recent accomplishments thoroughly celebrated echoing through the streets, a song comes through the night backdrop to strike my ear drums, and I smile. These folks have been here all along and it's been a good run.

Will find a way

These people make me sure of that.

Yes I Am a Pirate, A Few Hundred Years Too Late

2007-04-24T23:17:00.000-06:00

I hear there will be some fellow Madisonians in the area. Perhaps a Cornellian?

Friday, May 25, 2007
Depart: 9:15am
Chicago, IL
Arrive: 2:52pm
Albany, NY

Depart:
12:45 p.m.
Mon., May. 28, 2007
New York/Newark, NJ (EWR - Liberty)
Arrive:
2:16 p.m.
Mon., May. 28, 2007
Chicago, IL (ORD - O'Hare)

Ah Nimechoka...Chukua! (Ah I've become tired...Endure!)

2007-04-19T18:53:00.000-06:00

For those of you that need a big weekend, crank this up to get the kiddies movin' and shakin'. Particularily "Vuta Pumz".

A Few Kenyan Diddies

Vuta Pumz, roughly translated as "Take a breath", is actually a song about HIV/AIDS and raising awareness. Pretty sweet groove and vibe combined. It's gotten a lot of attention throughout Africa and they're trying to expand their message, recently touring in the U.S.

When You Go Your Way And I Go Mine

2007-04-18T19:56:00.000-06:00

Sometimes I can't help but cringe when I hear certain people say they're going to go abroad. It's those people that you know will be the worst possible ambassadors for your country. The ones that will hang out the window of a tour bus and beligerently shout things at any remotely good-looking girl they pass. The ones that will scream, "America, fuck yeah!" in a group of people who don't get the joke. The ones who won't try to learn a single thing about the country or culture they are living amongst. The ones who will leave the country with nothing but a picture of the nearest famous attraction and a fuzzy memory of what the inside of the club next to the American "dorms" looked like.

And It's Wake Up Time, Time to Open Up Your Eyes

2007-04-16T23:32:00.000-06:00

It's almost been a year...

And Rejection Never Sounded So Sweet

2007-04-13T22:20:00.000-06:00

Pretty impressive if for nothing but its art

Pretty impressive if for nothing but its style

Pretty impressive if for nothing but its rep

The Crowd Would've Booed For Not Getting Their Money's Worth

2007-04-13T21:15:00.000-06:00

There is one concept that has consistently made me clench my fists, cringe, sigh, shake my head, and walk away in complete disgust: all in one swift motion. I never know how to reciprocate the feeling to those who impose this concept on me. It can ruin my day, but always ends in an intriguing, perpetual question.

I was again blind-sided by entitlement today as I strolled through Library Mall, enjoying the promise of new buds, only to overhear these sentiments:

Exhibit A: "Yeah my family isn't rich, but is the gated community, live on golf course type. And it's such bullshit man all I get from each relative for my birthday is $25. Like they couldn't give me more. It sucks."

Aside from being unable to fathom why a family wouldn't give more to such a stellar relative, these faces and voices flashed through my head, uncovered:

"I completely deserve a better grade on this test. I mean I didn't study that much or anything, but I deserve a better grade. I mean, come on, those questions were hard."

"Give me 500 shillings. You're white, you owe me.

(Nearly in tears)"And my dad for my birthday guess what he got me...a Lexus. I told him I wanted a Mercedes, I mean a Lexus really? Doesn't he listen?"

Forever seared in my mind, some more ridiculous than others, some more or less difficult to sympathize with. But just a pin prick below the surface of all lies a sense of entitlement.

And the repitition kicks in...why? To this day I have not been able to pinpoint where this feeling of entitlement originates.

Perhaps it originates in a history of wrongdoing. Perhaps it originates from a lifestyle of never really knowing what it is like to need something you can't get. Perhaps it's a culture of telling you that you're great.

Perhaps I haven't even begun to scratch the surface. Maybe here nor there.

I Bid You A Restless Farewell

2006-10-11T00:10:00.000-06:00

I return home from my day's work at the clinic, crumbling into a pile on my cot. I stare at my ceiling. I simply can't fathom what had just happened. I thought I'd seen bad situations before, but this? How can this happen? Why? How can a woman come into the clinic for an HIV test, get the negative results, and start crying...not tears of joy, but exactly because she is HIV negative? How can things get so bad here that this widow has been trying to infect herself with HIV for several months, Just so that she can feed and clothe her children using the benefits that the clinic offers to HIV positive parents? How can we let this happen? How has this environment been created that she views this as her only possible solution? How can this happen?! This is why they tell me I don't know what it's like, that I can't truly understand, that I should go home to my easy life. And as much as I want to argue, I will. In a few months I will leave for home...

...But that doesn't mean I have forgotten.

I've been very hesitant to share many of my experiences. Maybe because I didn't completely know how to articulate them, maybe because I didn't want to do them injustice, maybe because I couldn't and still haven't resolved them in my mind, maybe for a variety of other reasons. But this is the reality, take it as you will.

She Don't Want No Diamond Rings

2006-10-09T01:32:00.000-06:00

So it's been a while since I've dropped a little info here...almost five months to the day. I had a good chat with a respected friend this evening and in the process realized that I've kept pretty quiet about the things that have I've been turning over since the turn of the year. I thought I'd share this, an interview I conducted with a refugee while staying at a Nabaheke refugee camp in Rwanda. Her name is Jeaneatte, this is her story:

I fled Congo in September of 2004. We fled because of the situation, militias killing people who speak Rwandan*. We fled to Burundi. I can't estimate how many of us there were, but many. Many were killed along the way. I got the chance to survive. When we arrived in Burundi we were attacked there as well. We returned to Congo but we encountered the same problems and decided to go to Rwanda. Walking to Burundi took one day, but to Rwanda it was nearly three days. It was hard for me, traveling with three children: 5, 11, and 13 years. I was separated from my husband when we fled and I was pregnant, which made the journey more difficult. Most of us are separated from our husbands or wives or children. My family is in Burundi, some are hiding in the bush, my husband is in the forests of Congo, but I have no way to communicate with them.

After almost three days we arrived at a transition camp, but the militias were palnning to attack so we were welcomed by the Rwandan government and moved to Nabaheke camp. Life is hard, but we are lucky, people who speak Rwandan in Congo don't sleep. Here we are safe. I volunteer on the medical team so that I can save my fellow refugees and family. I wish that I could get in front of the UN offices to tell them I want to go home, where I'm comfortable.

There was one other gentlemen in this conversation, Jean-Domicine and later I asked if they had a message to send to the U.S. what would it be:

Jean-Domicine: I've never been a student, but I request you to tell them, whatever you are studying, meditate on us, pray for us. Not just in Africa but every refugee. Students have enough power to raise up to governments and then change can happen. Raise up! You should tell them how we are suffering.

Jeanette: I can't top that.

*They are referring to Tutsis. As part of the reconciliation attempt in Rwanda very few people utter the words "Hutu" or "Tutsi". Saying they speak Rwandan is the way they were trying to express the situation to me without using those words.

Sometimes the Best Things Come In Small Packages

2006-05-06T07:57:00.000-06:00

An incredible woman in Rwanda had this incredible snippet of wisdom to pass onto my anxious ears...

"When you work for an NGO or in development you should be working to put yourself out of a job."

Jokers Play the Tune

2006-04-20T05:31:00.001-06:00

A little reminiscing:

It's my first week in Kenya. Ryan S. and I merge powers to take on the endeavor of acquiring Tuskers (half-liter Kenyan beer) for the final evening spent in Nakuru NP. Turns out we're heading into the city that particular day. Bingo! When we arrive, we casually stroll into the nearest shop that looks just a bit sketchy as though they might carry alcoholic beverages. Ask where the Tuskers are located. A stubby finger guides us to a side shelf. We ask for a box, in which to carry our goodies. A small basket is handed to us. We inform him that we will need something much larger.

His reply, "We'll see."

In our previous conspiratorial conversation had decided that 20 was the magic number. One basket already filled and I am sprawled out on the ground arm-up-to-the-shoulder reaching into the depths of the shelf for every last Tusker. There are 19. Grab a Pilsner (a big sacrifice). We lug our booty up to the counter, the Kenyans' eyes large with surprise. The man who handed us the small basket and rejected our request for something larger approaches. He looks at the Tuskers, he looks at us. "NOW you NEED a box, haha."

There is music in the background, prompting Ryan to bust out a little dance. The female cashiers love it! One of them demands that I join. I oblige and bust out the American rain dance...the Sprinkler. Pure cultural exchange. We take our clinking stash, now packaged in a cardboard box with gift-wrap string, like little children on free sample day at the candy store. The stroll back to the bus is a pleasurable one. No one none the wiser.

Demanding Refunds For the Things They've Seen

2006-04-20T05:31:00.000-06:00

Irony. I simply love it.

I live in a village, Maua, with no electricity, no running water. Oil lamps light my way in the night, however even that is limited in the attempt to save lamp oil. I can never seize the moment and burn the midnight oil. I slowly stumble into my bed, usually stubbing my toe, somewhere along the way, eyes struggling to peer through the darkness at about 9:30 every night. It would be earlier if not for my one saving grace...television. I never thought I'd hear myself say that. But it's true, despite the fact that there is no electricity and we cook over a fire every night we have a TV that runs on a car battery! Every night the family piles into the make-shift hut to watch the one station that the TV receives. After we watch the news, the event of the day comes on...

The Bold & the Beautiful.

I'm not joking. I'm becoming an expert. I even know the F'in characters. I'll prove it. Amber just convinced Becky to leave her stolen baby in Amber's care, so he'll have a good future with the Forresters. In real motive Amber wants the baby so that Eric won't divorce her, because he thinks it his child. Taylor is about to die but can't deliver the twins cuz there lungs haven't developed yet. All in incredibly dramatic voices. And so on. Every once in a while, for you Spanish fans, we get "My Three Sisters".

I find it more comical than anything that I can only stay up past 7:30 if I watch TV. Not only TV, but The Bold & the Beautiful.

Who's in charge of the programming here anyways? Seriously.

Even the Lord Must Sometimes Stand Naked

2006-04-06T06:49:00.000-06:00

Night, black as coal. Midnight oil long burnt away. Drenching downpour. Instant saturation. Flip-flop dash to the pit. Stumble. Fall. SPLASH! Glare at the sleeping dog I just fell over. Dust off pride (though not the mud). Gonna make it. Reach pit. Score! HUGE spider lingering over head. Awww. Stay away. Rain drop on back of my neck. Freak out. Nearly topple over. Long, doused, broken-pride stroll back to room. Repeat...several times.

Guess I should've boiled my water

Babe Said I'm a Rambler, Didn't Hear Her Over the Screendoor Slam

2006-03-16T03:08:00.000-07:00

Well I'm on the move again, spring break is upon me once again, as i'm sure it is for most of you and a sunny destination in the Indian ocean is calling...Madagascar. I'm not going lie. About all I know about Madagascar is that it's warm, it has beaches, there are rainforests there, and it's an island. Although I did discover the name of the capital yesterday. But I forgot it. My guide is a brouchere from the airline. It says people are friendly there. That sounds nice.

Once I return I must get my game face on though as I am departing for a village named Maua where I will be doing my field work. My duties will be two-fold: I'll be working in a community-based organization concerning preventative medicine and I'll be placed in a hospital where AIDS patients in the terminal stages are sent. I'm not exactly sure what my duties will be once I arrive there, but nonetheless I have almost no doubt that this will be one of the most testing experiences in my life. I can't provide a whole lot more information as I know very few specifics. As a told a fellow nomad, I better touch up on my Patch Adams skills.

I Just Want You To Know I Can See Through Your Masks

2006-03-16T02:00:00.000-07:00

Being able to witness a truly developing democracy, its history, and the manner in which the international community responds, first-hand, has been a truly remarkable experience. I'll give you a quick run-down of the entangled situation:

Kenya is home to over 42 different ethnic groups, most deeply divided, and all with a strong sense of pride. Almost immediately upon arrival we were bombarded with the negative qualities of all other ethnicities by most of our host families. The roots of this can largely be traced to colonialism, but I digress. Kenya has a history of ethnic favoritism and corruption leading all the way back to its first president, Jama Kenyatta, in 1963. Government officials have always acted out of personal benefit, giving little thought to the people the are serving. Even Kenyatta took land that was given by the British to be redistributed to the people of Kenya for himself. To this day his family owns the most total land mass. Things haven't changed much since then. Kibaki, the current president, has been on a rampage of favoritism and corruption himself. His first day in office was a sign of things to come. During elections he ran as head of a coalition, called NARC, of seven people from different tribes who were to govern the country together. After being elected Kibaki announced that he would not follow this and would run the country solo. Actions like this have only continued. If you travel to Central Province, Kikuyuu land (Kibaki's tribe) the roads are immaculate, there is plenty of water, and schools are abundant while in many other parts of Kenya roads are impassable, drought runs rampant killing cattle and people, and schools are few and far between (North-Eastern Province has one secondary school total). Nairobi has become a Hot Spot (like the garden) since I've arrived. Thus far two scandals, Goldenberg and Anglo Leasing, have been uncovered. In each of these scandals several billion Kenyan schillings have been stolen by government officials from funding that was supposed to go towards endeavors that would benefit the general populous. It really went down last week as the government raid The Standard newspaper and KTN Television for critical reporting of the government. They shut down the station and burned all the papers right of the press. This is in a democracy that is supposed to uphold freedom of speech. Oh but two things to keep in mind: at the moment the president can't be tried and he can change the Constitution with the stroke of a pen. Checks and balances are basically non-existent. The branches of government simply act in accordance with Kibaki's wishes. Anyways, people were out in the streets protesting like crazy, which I attended to hear what the leaders had to say, and to throw in a word of support or two. It was pretty amazing to see people pouring into the city center from all the feeding streets, coming together. As of right now the main government opposition is a group call the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) lead by an extremely charismatic leader named Raila Odinga. This group has been putting massive amounts of pressure on the government, but to no avail.

Oh yeah there have been several assassinations, betrayals, and exiles as well.

The international community's response to this has been interesting and I question its effectiveness. Although time will tell. The main threat at the moment has been retracting aid from Kenya. My question is, for a government that is already stealing billions of schillings, as well as using public fund to buy Mercedes and expensive, garden-clad villas, when people are dying of thirst in the North Eastern Province how much do they care about aid money that won't reach the people? It seems to me as though the people of Kenya are hurt more by this than the government. Because the government certainly isn't going to cut back the amount of money that it is taking. In fact that is one of the only things this government has passed into law, an increase in their own salaries. So who is actually hurt by this withheld aid, when the government isn't accountable to the people in the first place?

2006-02-28T07:07:00.000-07:00

I have not been eaten by a wild beast oh ye of little faith. Although a man in fatigues, carrying a big rifle suddenly yelled, "Mzungu! (read: cracker)" at me. I said hello.

Actually my time here has spanned the sphere of shear joy and grunt work. I just arrived back from Tiwi, on the coast of Africa, where my greatest fear was death by falling coconut. The day prior however I was in Kibera, one of the largest slums in all of Eastern Africa, working with a local community group to construct an all-girls school. I was in it, honing my carpentry skills constructing and erecting beams of freshly-cut tree branches, mixing water with mud forming efficient cement for the walls, kneading it between the tree beams, developing gouging blisters inflicted by pick-axe, all the while listening to reggae.

I'll elaborate on this more and numerous other things in a future post (tomorrow).

Why Didn't You Ask Me Baby, Didn't You Think I Could?

2006-02-08T07:43:00.000-07:00

I feel obligated to share some new found knowledge in the general context of T-rent, Williams, and my hour long conversation of the most efficient and feasible way to slaughter an attacking polar bear (sauce may or may not have been involved)...

I was greeted, upon arriving home from my first day of class here in Kenya, by my mama, "How was class? Learn anything interesting?"

My response: "Well in Country Analysis I learned how to kill a various assortment of wild beasts, including lions, elephants, leopards, hippos, and rhinos with my bare hands."

She was completely unphased by the aforementioned sentence...man education is different here.

If anyone wants to tackle the local zoo to test these approaches drop me a line for more details.

I should get wilderness certification for his...

Well She Ran Off When the Money Got Tight, But I Just Kept Right On

2006-01-16T11:38:00.000-07:00

The challenge is set forth...

17 Egyptian pounds, 4 Days

Place your bets now!

Come Down They'll Say, But We'll Stay

2006-01-08T07:47:00.000-07:00

The Dahab stretch was a combination of delectible sensory flavors sprinkled with hilarity (i.e. Jeep driver sparking up a joint whilst flying across the dusty sea edge). The reunion was fantastic and the crew was prime. The traveling companions have moved on now, still haven't been up beofre noon more than twice...the sunrises are just too tempting.

Gearing up for the Africa Cup Egypt-Libya soccer match on the 20th. I've never seen a professional soccer match, much less one off American soil. That'll be quite the run. Game starts at 7 pm, flight leaves at 10:50 pm.

Life on the run, no better way

Oh Very Young Where Will You Lead Us This Time

2005-12-08T06:46:00.000-07:00

I remember being slightly awe-struck the second semester of my freshman year after meeting a particular gentleman who had just returned from abroad. It was the first time in my life that I had met, heard the tales of, and conversed with someone whose eyes had beheld a million different images from so many lands across those blue seas. He had experienced cultures that I would only be able to visit restaurants of. He was something that I would never be, he had seen things I would never see. But that sparked something in me. Why not me?

And now I'm taking baby-steps. As I prepare for my next journey into the unknown (as well as a reunion soiree), getting together my usual travel gear, I pick up my pack and find some red grains of sand stowed in the pockets...

Barrel-rolls and somersaults (not to mention a little documented dance) were just a few of the moves busted out on the dunes on the way to our camp. There was something so powerful, yet serene about the desert...sublime. It captivated me. I took a large portion of the venture to the camp on foot partially because that's my preferred mode of transport, partially because I didn't bring a cup to wear while riding the camel. That night I had one of the best conversations of my life, atop a sand dune, a blanket of stars over us. Time stood still. The only reminder was the full moon slowly ascending over a distant majestic dune. At the peak of its crest a rendition of "If you want to be a badger..." resonated through the desert.

By the bright shining light of the moon

I Been One Poor Correspondent, I Been Far Too Hard To Find, But That Doesn't Mean You Ain't Been On My Mind

2005-11-14T22:35:00.000-07:00

I was looking back on my blog yesterday and realized that it didn't nearly do any justice to my untouchable experience in Morocco. Just because my feet touched down back in the fifty nifty didn't mean the grey matter simultaneously joined. But tonight I find myself staring out the droplet peppered window pane at the illuminated capitol, consumed with reminiscent wanderings of my mind. It's the peaceful reverberation that courses through your body while engulfing yourself in the letter from an old long-lost friendship, now rekindled. The feeling of a warm cup of tea and company in front of the fire on a cold winter's night. So here commences the wanderings:

We steadily cut through the dark of night in our steel steed. The tires slowly roll into a sleepy desert town square, red-earth walls glowing in the moonlight. End of the line. Not a soul to be seen in this late night oasis, minus one tiny store front clad with fluorescent light all too familiar to the night traveler. Coins and a Fanta orange exchange hands in the night, as I wipe the grit from the corners of my mouth. I stroll down a few stores before I decide the search for a place to stay is futile at this hour. This square will be my home for the night, the earth below my feet suits as my bed, the pack on my back, my pillow.

I feel something brush my hip. Fear snaps my head to attention as I open my eyes just in time to witness an act of unsurpassed generosity, as the middle aged shopkeeper drapes a blanket over my travel-weary body. Still not fully alert, I do my best to sputter out my appreciation. He smiles, nods and disappears back down the street and into his store. The sun peaks over the earthen walls, as I awake and gather my things. I carefully fold the shopkeeper's blanket, turn and head towards the shop anxious to express my gratitude, only to find that the shop is closed with no one in sight. I remove my journal from my pack and tear off a corner. I scrawl my best effort at coherent Arabic phrases on the scrap of paper and leave it, along with the blanket in at the foot of the store.

I'll never know if that gentleman ever received my note, or for that matter if it made any sense to him, but I like to think that he received it and understood it in its entirety.

I Wanna Wreck My Stockings In Some Juke Box Dive

2005-10-24T21:12:00.000-06:00

I noticed a tree that hadn't yet begun to morph into a spectrum of color a few days ago as I was sitting down by the terrace enjoying a beautiful autumn afternoon. It struck me as odd as I would have thought that all trees would have changed by this point in time.

Anyways, I had a couple conversations today that made me realize just how long I have been in the homeland already. I chatted with The Commando today we were both Skype deflowered. One of my students from Morocco hit me up while on MSN, he was wondering about books in my native tongue. I want to send him a book or two, I'm thinking either the Grapes of Wrath or Walk Across America might be good options, however suggestions are greatly appreciated. It took me for a whirlwind to discover that my student and friend Kaoutar had been married since my departure. I glanced at the calendar with shock wondering how she met someone and was married in a month when I realized that the touch-down back in the states occurred two full months ago now. Not that this isn't surprising in it's own right but to think that I've been back two months sent me wheeling like the unsuspecting bystander catching the frisbee upside the head.

Like that sweet nectar from a glass bottle...it's many different things.

For some it's T-town with a view, for me it's a rock and water from the sky.

Comin' Around the Bend

2005-09-18T03:56:00.000-06:00

I know that this is not goodbye...

Walked Up To Her, Said My Name Is Short

2005-09-04T23:30:00.000-06:00

This one goes out to my homies and the co-garden tender, whom I owe this to.
(Stage note: Carlo Rossi and Mickey's simultaneously poured onto the wooden floor)

Moved into the new place about a week ago, but i've noticed that there are some things missing from the place that normal apartments have. For instance there isn't a constant aroma of noodles and cheese with a splash of cock sauce floating through the air. People wear pants with suit coats. Red, Green, and Blue are just colors. The pirate no longer watches over the living room from the hook by the door. The stock of gold in the refridgerator doesn't disappear in a matter of hours. Wine stains aren't the preferred tapestry decoration. There are no guests like Shaggy and his buddies stopping by. 4 am isn't considered an early night. Death metal serenades don't waft in from the room in the back. When I say I want some sauce people ask if I want tomato or alfredo. "Get there!" or "You've got big f'in claws and big f'in fangs" are received with blank stares. Fusion cooking/drink making isn't the preferred method. When I say ten mile tide, people think I'm talking about California. Dance isn't the common method of exercise. More time is spent inside the house than on the porch.

I'll have to talk to the landlord about fixing these obvious malfunctions.

However, Pure Energy still floats over the couch and throughout the house

Big Wheel Keep On Turning

2005-07-25T13:04:00.000-06:00

One observation from random wanderings in Morocco:

If it's not broken, don't fix it.
If it is broken, you don't have to fix it.
If it is broken and you decide to fix it, hit it with a big f'in wrench.

That's all that's to it.

It's a little change in perspective...but it makes all the difference.

You've Got To Know When To Hold 'Em

2005-07-22T05:58:00.000-06:00

No Phoenix in the near future

We Can Share What We Got of Yours, Cuz We Just Shared All of Mine

2005-07-06T13:23:00.000-06:00

My view of hospitality has been completely redefined this past couple of weeks.

Yesterday, Anna and I were invited over "tea" by our student Asmae. Well this tea invitation turned into kind of a long tea meeting, as in a seven hour stretch of binge eating. I wouldn't even want to see the mass of food we ate all in one place. Seriously, this put any Thanksgiving dinner I've ever partaken in to shame. It started with bread and jam, followed by a huge tajine (a concoction of seven vegetables, meat, and sauce cooked in a ceramic device), watermelon, then mint tea and cookies. We went to stroll around the blockm came back and stuffed our face with cous cous and sour milk (which sounds really gross, but is starting to grow on me). Followed by a "walk" which was really just a transport to one of the other girl's (Btissam) homes where we ate gargantuan Moroccan crepe and more tea. Finally, back to Asmae's to "pick up our bags" which translates into consuming a load of fish, bread, sweet bread, eggs, and coffee. Anna had to roll me o the bus when we left. Today: repeat (except a bit shorter this time: 5 hours). We are booked solid with invitations from our students until next week Wednesday. It's great since we get to get to know our students on a more personal and can have more personal conversations. Both times we have had conversations about Americans' views of Arabs.

On top of that, last Thursday I was walking around the medina, said hi to some random 36-year-old guy which transformed into a conversation, and invitation to go fishing as he is a fisherman. So we go down jump in his boat and off we go. Quite the 8-hour adventure and I think I dished out a little culture shocked on him. He was pretty amazed when I started rowing the boat like a Harvard crew boy, threw the casting net like a weathered sailor, could hold my own in the beach soccer games, and that i knew how to swim(?). Things started getting interesting when he asked me if I knew any forty year old women that he could marry to get papers, adding that he wouldn't cheat. I gently informed him that I, being only twenty, do not have the please of friendship with many 40-year-olds. He made me say that I would at least try. He then proceeded to ask me if I liked Moroccan women, but before I could respond, he declared, "They are nice but have no petrol, know what I mean?" I didn't validate this with a response.

But it's not only Moroccans who have changed my perspective. About a week ago I became stricken with fever from the depths of hell and strangely when I put objects in my mouth they were not content, delirium ensued and phrases like, "100% in the money!" spewed from my mouth. But with the impeccable care of my thoughtful nurse I lived to see another day.

There Was A Time When I Could Say It Right To You That I would Never Want To Leave This Place

2005-07-06T12:40:00.000-06:00

One of the great things about being in a country where you can't read the signs is that you get to create your own names for the shops. For example, Mcguever (I'm sure T-rent will appreciate this). Mcguever is a tiny shop on the corner across the street from our apartment and this guy has everything. The shop is smaller than a dorm room, yet it contains all that you could possibly imagine. You want a watch fixed...done, ice cream...done, a hammer...done, shisha and coals...done, rifle...well don't know about that one, but perhaps in a backroom? Then there's fruit man, sandwich guy, Cheap-ass sandwich place, etc. These names have become part of the regular vocab in the house. This even applies to people, aka Malcolm X.

The other day we discovered the chicken shack as were searching for a place to watch the Morocco v. Nigeria soccer game. During this search we encounter cafe after cafe without even standing room open. I don't think I've ever seen such a huge brat fest everywhere in a city. I didn't see a single woman, aside from Melissa who was with me. (PS the game was a blowout 3-0)

The discoveries just keep rolling in...just need to find Falafel King now.

This Is Ground Control To Major Tom

2005-07-04T04:13:00.000-06:00

After being here in Morocco for three weeks, I figure it's about that time to catch y'all up on the movers and shakers here. Just call our pad the Real World Rabat house, I've contacted MTV they're on their way to start filming this week. 9 Americans and a German in one apartment fueled with scandal. Quite a different vibe from the "Lodge". But it's been splendid, plenty of laughs.

The scoop on the job: Reseau Maillage is the name. The projetcs, twofold: 1. Construct a EU grant proposal for a women's education center in Sale to increase their prescence in the workforce and 2. My forte: Teaching English to people whose language you don't speak, haha. I absolutely love both aspects. My students are awesome, between 16 and 20 so a different approach than in Thailand, but I'm still up to my usual antics. Thursday I was galloping around the classroom, demonstrating horse racing. No ripped pants yet. Also, dabbling in other thingsm attended a meeting for the development of a independent newspaper in the poorest area of Sale to allow people to express their views.

More to come...catch ya on the flip-side

Time We Stop Children What's That Sound, Everybody Look What's Goin' Down

2005-06-27T06:38:00.000-06:00

Just got off a bus that drove through the middle of a work stirke in front of the palace. Intense. Masses of people stopping traffic on the main thoroughfare, dodging baton-wielding police. I'll update this a little later i have to get rollin for now. Expect an explosion of posts as I have a ton to catch you up on: work situation, Gnaoua, housing, this, and lot of other on-goings.

Have to take it off the burner for a while.

Thai students and me

2005-06-18T16:55:00.000-06:00

Thai students and me
Originally uploaded by burbarya.

Testing this photo posting with a pic from my traineeship in Thailand last year.

For You Will Still Be Here Tomorrow, But Your Dreams May Not

2005-06-16T08:53:00.000-06:00

So it's been a while...my bad.

Mission One: Learn Basic Arabic numbers and phrases...ACCOMPLISHED.
Mission Two: Initiate conversation with locals...ACCOMPLISHED.
Mission Three: Secure household hookah... ACCOMPLISHED.
Mission Four : Figure out these keyboards...FAILED...Miserqbly.

Time to turn it up a notch.

Most of my time to this point has been spent excitedly roaming the streets of Rabat, awe at every corner. Some time spent down on a sea-jutting rockbar, accentuated with splendid conversqtion. Beautiful transitions with one simple turn from the bustling pathways in the medina (market), light sprinkling the ground through the straw mat shades above, to deserted narrow, building-lined alleys, whitewash blue gives an overwhelming feeling of serenity. Morning soccer sessions with some Moroccans (wow am I rusty). Plenty of language barrier laughs.

From my eyes:
Sitting on the balcony, crazy blend of tranquil garden and mind-bustling street below; feet up on the railing, lean back in my white plastic lawn chair, slowly exhale the flavorful smoke. Fragrant flowers below mix with aromatic haze newly released from my lips...eyes close for a moment. Open to weathered earthen walls of Hassan Tower transforming to a vibrant red, as the sun recedes behind the seashore, house-ridden hills and night slowly blankets the city. The radiant crescent moon hangs overhead, releasing just enough light to create a gentle bluish glow, which makes even the rough plaster walls look as soft as the pillow I will soon rest my head on. Mysterious dogs, ghost-like under the cover of the moon, prance silently down the deserted street with no particular destination...true nomads.

That's all for now, I have so much ore discovery to undertake.

Makeen mooshkeel!

P.S. 50 Cent - Candy Shop is playing in the cafe right now

Well I'm Taking My Time Just Moving Along, You'll Forget About Me After I'm Gone

2005-05-04T00:58:00.000-06:00

Well, it's done. Boston with 4 other splendid Aiesecers from the 18th-24th. Rock and roll high school!

P.S. My bank account is frowning at me right now.

Don't Tell Me This Place Ain't Got No Heart, You Just Gotta Poke Around

2005-04-26T21:53:00.000-06:00

Pencils scrawl trying to catch the last tidbit of knowledge, I realize I am touching legs with the girl sitting next to me...I leave it there. Then the question...what caused the occurrence on 9/11?

I'm sitting in my International Relations class (composed of about 50 people) here at UW and this question is dropped, it lands like an A-bomb.

People sit paralyzed in quiet contemplation, or indifference, some various ideas are provided...it's because our privilege comes at the cost of others abroad...it's our relations with Israel...it's our involvement in the Iraqi-Iranian conflict...

Our professor then proceeds to say (not a direct quote), "Well let me present you with the two leading general theories. The first is that it was because of U.S. actions, involvement, exploitation, etc. The second is the fact that it is more of a fundamental difference, that Al Qaeda opposed what the U.S. IS. Democracy, capitalism, relatively tolerant. The first we can change, the second we essentially can't. What do you think in these ideas?"

He proceeded to ask for a show of hands for people who thought that the first was the case, then the second.

Hands were overwhelming pushed into the air after the second option. And some reasoning was requested. This is were I sat silently in shock, until near the end of class. A few sample direct quotes:

"Hate is hate, there's nothing you can do about it. Some people just hate us."

"They just see the world in a messed up way, we can't change that."

I won't go on, because I don't want to inaccurately quote people, but I couldn't believe the apathy and amount of "they"s being thrown around the room. Finally, I composed myself and threw in my two cents that we shouldn't judge the people in an entire region/religion of the world simply by the actions of a few. I suggested that perhaps it was a matter of misunderstanding or misperceptions between cultures, something that could be solved. How accurate is our perception of "them"? A few other similar comments. I didn't get much response as the bell soon rang, but I wish we could have continued that discussion. I think I'm going to ask the professor to continue it next class, for this was a situation where our education isn't about some dot you'll have to fill in on a Scantron.

I think I'll dream tonight of taking that entire room of people on Salaam with me. That would be some real impact.

And I Don't Mind to Travel Around With My Belongings on My Back

2005-04-11T20:36:00.000-06:00

I think I have found the song of the AIESEC NOMAD, here are the lyrics:

I can't stop here in this town
cuz I'm a through hiker, babe, and I can't stick around.
And I'm not stopping in this life,
there's plenty other worlds to see, but I'll stay the night

Do you have a bed for me?
A couch to lay upon?
I want be no trouble mama,
and I will leave by dawn.
I'm not weary from the miles and miles behind
and I don't wanna be alone tonight, girl, do you catch my mind?

Well, sometimes I'm by myself once I had a hound,
but he ran off with another hiker in a Green Mountain town.
I seen the Rocky Mountains, I been the Appalachian way,
and I don't mind tomorrows if I don't mind todays.

And I don't mind traveling around with my belongings on my back.
And when I think I know where I'm at,
you know I'm way off track.

I got no destination, the people, they accuse.
They think that I am aimless
and they think I got the blues.

And I try to tell them, Lord, I try to explain.
Sometimes they listen,
but you know they just mostly walk away.

Life is a journey,
that's the head on the nail
The path you're on, that's the key,
and not the end of the trail.
Slow down like me now, mama, you might have a ball.
You wouldn't want to die to find out you hadn't lived at all.

I'm a through hiker, babe, so now you know.
Would you like to come along with me,
cuz it's time to go.

Down the road's a mountain,
the other side of the stream.
I say we make some tracks now
and follow our dreams.

The Future Is Wide Open

2005-04-07T23:32:00.000-06:00

Just got accepted to the Salaam Program! Can't even express how ecstatic I am. My head's abuzz, my Swahili exam in the morning has suddenly taken a backseat.

Who knows what these next few months hold in store.

This Is How We Do It, It's Friday Night

2005-04-07T12:15:00.000-06:00

This just in...

Those going to Kenya from Madison: 23 girls, 1 guy (me). This outlook is superb. We'll see what kind of ratio U of M is sending...

No ice cream and puppy dogs

Hope It Don't Fall in the Sea...It Ain't Like Anywhere Else

2005-03-27T10:38:00.000-07:00

I arrived back in Madison the other day after a splendid spring break in California. The journey much like the eclectic blend that she, herself is, a perfected balance.

The first few days I spent at my sister's house in Sebastopol, about an hour north of San Francisco. Her house is like something straight out of a Norah Jones song: crooked, gravel driveway making its way up to the top of a hill, orchard on oneside, vineyard on the other, until it reaches a quaint little house with a tin roofed carport, majestic redwood tree in the front yard. She lives ten miles from the coast, so I'd walk down nearly everyday and climb down the cliffs to the beaches, or remain pearched atop, enjoying the heavy air of the sea and the hypnotizing lull of sea caps crashing against the rocks.

The latter part saw me wandering the streets of old San Francisco, following the crazy footsteps of the gone beatnik cats. Swinging in and out of dusty, little bookstores; cluttered record shops; sleepy, evening cafes. The sunset brought streets painted with colors and crowds, live jazz poured thick from open back alley doors like fog through a valley, and the wine flowed freely.

A little landscape, a little city-scape...

---"The only people for me are the mad ones, the ones who are mad to talk, mad to live, mad to be saved, desirous of everything at the same time, the ones who never yawn or say a commonplace thing, but burn, burn, burn like fabulous yellow roman candles exploding..."---

The Sound of Silence

2005-03-14T18:23:00.000-07:00

I realized something obvious today, silence can be awkward othertimes it is not. I've known for a while now that silence can be more meaningful than anything words can express, but today I realized that you are really only comfortable in silence with your close friends. Put yourself in a similar situation with a different person and things are awkward, but with a close friend turn the radio up, smile, and enjoy the miles rolling past.

Paint It Black

2005-03-09T16:14:00.000-07:00

I think I witnessed the gathering of the biggest group of rude, inconsiderate individuals I have seen in quite sometime while at work today. I work at the state capitol, where a three-day hunger strike by some students to oppose tuition hikes is currently going on. The College Republicans (a student organization) apparently felt that these were some crazy liberals that needed to be put in their place. So today, the final day of the hunger strike, they marched into the capitol armed with Taco Bell, McDonald's, and Subway stood in front of those participating in the hunger strike and made sure to let them know how much they were enjoying their food, not to mention the delicious smells. This was encouraged by the president of the College Republicans and thought of as a great idea by most of the members I had talked to about it.

I was enraged when I witnessed this act. There was no constructive goal attached with these actions. The only point was to harass people. I saw an email from the CR president that said "let's taunt some hungry liberals". I agree that a hunger strike may not be the most effective means to bring about change in something like tuition hikes, but at least those people are doing something constructive representing their ideas, not just antagonizing someone for the sake of making people feel bad. If the College Republicans disagree with those holding the hunger strike, then order a constructive response.

Which brings me to yet another absurd part of this event. Tuition hikes aren't even a partisan issue! Governor Doyle, a Democrat, is proposing the increases in tuition, it's not as if the people doing the hunger strike were condemning Republicans. So for the CR pres to say "let's taunt some hungry liberals" is just ignorant.

Finally, even though I have largely liberal ideals, my thoughts have nothing to do with Democrats vs. Republicans. I'd call out anyone who performed actions like these. If Russ Feingold or Senator Baxter had done this I'd call them incosiderate too.

I think the overall issue, is respect. Even if you don't agree with someone's ideas at least be willing to let them present their thoughts without interference and hear them out. You might even learn something.

And It Looks Like the Old Man Is Getting On

2005-03-02T20:22:00.000-07:00

And here's what you've won...

A self-paid trip to bodacious Kenya from September 2005 to June 2006. Such activities include studying in Nairobi, internship, and self-designed research project! A conquering of Kilimanjaro is a must.

It's official kids

Game on!

Oh Very Young, What Will You Leave Us this Time

2005-03-01T01:24:00.000-07:00

Today as I was walking home I came upon a child exiting a store. It was snowing outside and he began to try to catch flakes on his tongue. I took this as a challenge and say to him, "I bet I can catch more!" So right there on State Street, this 10 year old kid and I start running around and jumping in a fierce competition to catch the most flakes. After a while, we laughed, I gave him a high five, and I continued on my way (I'm sure I won). It reminded me though that I haven't been as spontaneous and "crazy" as I normally am. I think it has something to do with my schedule, but whatever the reason, I'm going to get back into that step again.

Can't You Hear, Can't You Hear When the Moon Is Bright and Clear

2005-02-28T03:38:00.000-07:00

Reading some of the entries in other blogs lately about music, and being a music fanatic myself, I thought it might be interesting to open up some discussion on the rhythms from various corners of the world. Sometimes it's hard discovering quality music, especially international music, without a little nod from others.

So what are people listening to that gets their booties shakin', minds swirling, soul relaxin' or tears flowing?

My recommendation for the moment (as it is 5:06 a.m.) is Kings of Convenience, a band comprised of two Norwegians on acoustic guitars. Definitely some good music for those "I'm going to take a slow stroll and think at 2 a.m. moods". Recommended songs: "Little Kids", "Summer on the Westhill", "I Don't Know What I Can Save You From"

Another, if you haven't heard of them, is Yonder Mountain String Band. Not international if you're reading this from the U.S., but if you're somewhere else definitely international. Kind of a progressive bluegrass band, that can always get your toes tappin'. They do some pretty amazing covers (including Crazy Train, Zappa, and Dylan) in addition to their great originals.

A Candle Throws Its Light Into the Darkness

2005-02-27T23:15:00.000-07:00

I read a card that I received a while back today. It made me smile. Back to the path, I have to let 'em know.