A Goodbye Letter

Dear Winny, Irene, Kelvin, Ronald, Julius, Tumanka, Joan, Betty, Vincent K, Jackline, Goffrey, Tonkei, Komoni, Vincent L, and Obadiah,

        As I sit here in my new rocking chair, trying not to tear up, I can’t help thinking that I have you for only one more week. I failed. Tearing up has now moved to full on crying. It was you guys who helped me survive my first year in Kenya and KSL and I owe you everything. I remember my first time as teacher on duty, I was so scared. I had no idea what to do. But when I came to you asking for help, all of you stepped up and assisted me all week. It was you who had the patience to deal with my crazy and sometimes unconventional ways of teaching. I can’t imagine school without you next term. We formed a special bond that I will never forget. I am so happy and proud of all of you but I can’t help being a little sad to see you all go.

      Julius and your caring nature, watching over me and the little ones. Assuring me my signing was not the problem and helping me explain what I was teaching to the kids who were slower. Kelvin and your cheeky, witty humor. I would always have to stop at least 3 times during class to get you to stop day dreaming. I always wondered what you dreamed about. Winny, and your ever present smile and how happy you would get when you answered a question correctly. I hope you realize how smart you are. I got to see your self esteem blossom from when I first met you. Irene, I always looked forward to your hugs on opening day. You were always stealing my phone calling your parents who don’t even speak English. Vincent L, you have a passion for art and playing tricks on me, always trying to get me…you never succeeded. Obadiah always focused on your studies. I was so impressed when the other kids were out playing, you were in the classroom alone studying. Ronald and your endless questions about Obama and America. You always made me laugh. Tumanka, you were always the first person I saw when I walked into class. I loved seeing your face light up when you got something correct. Geoffrey, I’ll miss you always trying to steal my phone to play games until I got it back and it‘s was dead.. Jackline, komoni, betty, Joan, my 4 musketeers. So subdued but I feel privileged to get to be the one to see you guys get silly and animated during our games. Tonkei you always had a smile and a positive attitude. You are one of the sweetest boys I have ever met. Vincent K, you have an amazing talent and passion for art and I hope you never loose it.

          We have learned together and faced challenges together. All of you have brought something to my education here in Kenya.. You all have so many dreams and I hope someday you reach them. My wish for all of you is to realize your full potential and go out and do great things. I am going to miss all you so much and I feel honored and proud that you were my first class.

                                                         Love,

                                                            Danielle