Life in Between

One thing I’ve realized throughout my fellowship is that I’ve spent so much time sharing the work I’m doing with Shakenisho that I haven’t really talked about what my everyday life looks like here in Narosura. Of course, the village visits, discussions, and community engagement take up a significant part of my time, but there’s also a whole life happening in between.

For starters, I live in a house not too far from the market center with my two translators, who have been accompanying me throughout my work with the Isiankikin young ladies. Our living situation is quite comfortable. We have solar power, water, and Wi-Fi, which I’m especially grateful for because it allows me to stay connected with my family and friends back home. Before arriving, I wasn’t entirely sure what my living arrangements would look like, but I’ve settled in quite nicely.

Our days usually revolve around traveling to one of the five villages where we hold our discussions. Most of the time, we travel by motorbike because the roads are not exactly forgiving. Between the dust, rocks, and uneven terrain, getting around by car can be quite difficult. I’ve gotten used to the bumpy rides, although I can’t say my body always appreciates them. Nevertheless, the scenery along the way has always been breathtakingly beautiful, and the rides have become a familiar part of my routine.

Once we’ve finished our village visits, we usually head back home, where my translators and I share the responsibilities of cooking and cleaning. It’s a fairly simple routine, but one I’ve come to enjoy. After spending much of the day moving around and interacting with people, it’s nice to return home and have a moment to ourselves.

Wednesday in Narosura is market day, which means we don’t schedule any village visits. Instead, we head into the market center to pick up household essentials, buy groceries, and socialize. It’s one of the busier days of the week, with people coming from surrounding areas to buy, sell, and catch up with one another. I’ve come to appreciate these days because they give me a chance to interact with the community outside of my role with Shakenisho. Sometimes it’s nice to just be another person at the market going about her day.

Now, I will say that living here has come with a few adjustments, particularly when it comes to household chores. For one, I’ve had to get used to washing my clothes by hand. My translators and I usually do our laundry together, and although I’ve gotten the hang of it, I would be lying if I said I didn’t miss having a washing machine. It’s funny how you don’t realize how convenient something is until you no longer have it readily available.

Aside from that, I’ve grown pretty comfortable with my routine here. Of course, there are things I miss about home, but I’ve also come to appreciate the simplicity of my days in Narosura. Between our village visits, trips to the market, and time spent at home, I’ve found a balance that works for me. I think what I’ve enjoyed most is getting to experience life here beyond my responsibilities with Shakenisho. Not every day is particularly eventful, and I don’t necessarily mind that. It has been nice to have a routine, enjoy the company of the people around me, and go about my day.