I am currently deployed to West Africa. I had the opportunity and privilege to donate some much-needed items to a primary school (elementary school for American Citizens) today that services several dozens of orphaned children. The school is chartered by the national government but does not receive any funding. It totally runs off donations. The teachers are paid approximately 50000 West Africa Cifa which comes out to less than $100 a month for their salaries. The school has no power and learning is conducted through chalkboards and individual tablets that can be erased and reused because is too high of a commodity. Why am I bringing this to your attention? As Americans, we have “first world” problems. For the most part, if we do not like the teacher/instructor we can do something about. We can choose what institution of higher learning we can attend. We can shop around for the better deal on a textbook. We have the option of bringing food from home or getting fast food at the food court. Despite their lack of supplies they made up for any shortfalls with big hearts and pride. Every classroom I entered my group was welcomed with a visitor greeting song. We are going to be physicians and leaders in medicine. But please know that is what we will be and not be who we will be as human beings. Do not lose sight or get out of touch with your humanity along this journey. My father was killed in the military when I was very young. My mother and grandmother raised me. The way those women taught and cared for those children took me back for a moment when I was a child. Though things are not ideal for them you got the sense that they felt safe and secure. These pictures and video were taken at the request and expressed consent of the Founder and Headmaster of the Giselle Primary School for Orphans.

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