After approximately ten days volunteering in Kabale we took some time for R&R around Lake Bunyonyi. The drive there was an adventure consisting of steep bumpy roads on the side of a cliff. š It was totally worth it. We stayed at The Heart which is where Edirisa was founded. It was easy to see how someone could stay on this lake and be inspired to start such an organization.
Our view consisted of the glistening waters of Lake Bunyonyi, surrounded by tall, graceful trees and luscious hills. We would sit outside on the porch and feel the breeze, listen to the birds chirp, and just absorb the perpetual beauty around us. We spent the days canoeing, swimming, and simply relaxing. The Heart had a dock out in the middle of the lake and this quickly became a favorite hangout spot.
Our day on Amagara Island was as lovely as the scenery. We spent the day in the bright African sunshine lounging on the dock and having a canon ball contest. We also enjoyed some wonderful meals here. The delicious food added to our great time on Amagara Island.
The three and a half days spent on the lake were filled with much needed relaxation. Many of us were reminded of how calmed and rejuvenated we are by water. Every so often we just need to be close to it. It doesn’t matter if it’s a lake, ocean or river. Water is a beautiful thing.
-Sally, Cherish, Kristine, and Ellie
Personally, the water presented me with an opportunity to reflect on everything. I really started to take in my surroundings and realize how different this world is from my own world at home–realize that I’m in Africa. You hardly ever see this many green hills rolling on and on. You don’t have the insane dirt roads winding around the hills. You don’t see kids without any pants on playing in the dirt. You don’t see kids handling pick axes mining alongside their parents. But yet, typically when I see these things, it almost strikes me as normal. I feel so natural and comfortable here. Because of that, I really can’t fully believe I am in Africa. It won’t hit me till I’m home.
-Ellie