We have a maid. I'm very uncomfortable with the idea and am sure ít'll be a reoccurring theme here. Her name is Sarah and she is 16 years old. Her boss (the home owner's wife) brought Sarah on Sunday and stayed with her for 3 days to train her and make sure she'd be ok. ****part of this blog has been removed upon request******
The trouble I'm having is with the obvious culture clash. I don't want to impose my values on Zimbabwean life but at the same time I feel her position is somewhat unjust. I still don't know enough about class here but I would imagine she will never be able to leave this kind of work. But again, am I imposing my values on ""this kind of work"? Perhaps the idea of a maid here and in Canada are very different.
I'm still confused.
it's been a good hike when....
yes, these are my feet!
chillin'
Swaziland's flag
The black and white represent racial harmony
Zimbabwe's flag
1 comment:
I had a conversation yesterday w/a friend about Africa in the early 18/1900's. He said that while working overseas he has met folks who have said they were happy that slavery happened. Their family life in Africa (ancestors as recent as their parents) was dangerous, poverty ripe, and every day was a struggle to survive. When these families came to NA and entered a life of slavery...some were happy to have the escape and a chance at a better life. I'm by no-means condoning this behaviour. We've grown beyond this...but I do think that the situation you're in now brings light to a time long before ours. Sarah is likely living a safer life and supporting a family somewhere else. You are in a position to teach her new things and give her a glimpse into your experiences. I would caution against trying to change her position with only having known her life...and her community a short time.
You are one of my most adventurous and worldly friends. I know you'll learn from this situation....better it if you can....and grow even more.
I can't wait to hear all about your new life....
ox
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