Each day I am faced with a language barrier that is often times very hard to break. Swahili is one of the main languages in Kenya, however in our small village of Gotani, Kayafungo they also speak Giriama. Attempting to learn both in a 5 week period is very difficult and often times frustrating. So far I have learned the basic greetings, hello's, goodbye's, how are you's and what is your name. Its fun being able to communicate on a basic level, however I continually get disappointed when I am sitting, playing with the kids while they are trying to speak to me. The only thing I can do to respond is put on a pathetic looking face and either shrug or say "sisemi Swahili" which means "I don't understand Swahili".
In Nicaragua I can at least create a broken sentence and hold somewhat of a conversation. Here in Kenya Swahili and Giriama have no words that are similar to English so it is near impossible to even try and create or fake a sentence. Not to mention every word and name seems to begin with the letter M, K, or G.
Nevertheless I cant complain too much because the challenge of communicating can sometimes be the fun part, and it is always exciting when I finally make a connection with the people.
After being here for about 4 weeks and learning a little Swahili and Giriama and being able to communicate on a minimal level, I have noticed how far the power of a simple smile can go. Language is local, but a smile is universally global. No matter what type of emotions I am feeling throughout the day; whether it be happy, sad, depressed or angry, I always get a smile when I see the boys in the village running to see with, grinning from ear to ear. I have discovered a smile is not effected by money, race, language or ethnicity.
Even though I live in America and speak English, day in and day out I have the same smile as the children who live in developing Kayafungo, Kenya speaking Swahili. The fact of knowing I was able to make somebody smile goes to show the power of such a small action. I make an attempt to make somebody different smile each day. Even if it only lasts a few seconds, the fact of knowing their day was a little brighter because of me is priceless.
As we drive down the bumpy road in the uncomfortable Matatu, I see many people blankly staring at the group of "Mazungos" (white people) bouncing down the road; however when I wave to them I see that blank stare turn into a smile and get a wave back. It was a small connection, but it made a big difference not only in their emotions, but maybe even their impression of Westerners. The smile, wave, and quick grin of the cheeks can form a lasting connection.
It's priceless seeing the smiles of women who you helped get water or give a ride down the road. A small smile provides proof that a simple gesture goes a long way...not matter where in the world you are.
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