Conversation with a Teacher

The teacher asked us first to extend the days we are here in Tanzania. 

She said "The school is beautiful now." 

But she needed us to stay later because it was not enough. We looked at her nonplused. I didn't know what to say. After a moment I stuttered out that we may be able to come back after returning to America. 

She asked directly, "When? One Year? Two Years? We need more." 

She thanked us profusely, we thanked her. "Asante! Asante!"

It sounded through the school's single open hallway. And, with as much certainty as we could muster, we spoke of returning. 

"Good," she said, "the love is on its way."

- Kai Earthsong