Today I woke up confused as to where I was. I expected to be all cuddled up in my familiar bed at good ole Mourer Street in the midst of a blizzard like normal but I was instead greeted by the blazing Lesotho sun.
At breakfast I received well wishes from my fellow classmates as well as a package of cards from my loved ones at home. Among the cards were a few presents; a pair of leggings and some socks, which I am sure I received because of my known inability to pack properly (Thanks, Mom).
After breakfast we packed into the bus and set off to paint classrooms in Rambanta's Fatima Primary School. We painted over bleak concrete the warm colors of bright blue and cream, breathing life into the room. It amazed me what a simple coat of paint could do. While we were painting, we played music and one by one everyone began to sing along under their breath. The morning felt like a simple celebration in itself.
There's something about Lesotho that allows you to be completely and truthfully yourself. I experienced this on Christmas Eve when a group of us drove to the Semonkong Waterfall. As I rode in the back of a bright red pickup truck, wind blowing as we whipped around winding mountain roads, I became introspective. I thought about all of the positive things in my life and the expeirences I've had. I felt whole. It may be the vast acceptance of the Basotho people or the support of my fellow 蜜桃直播students. It may be the deepening appreciation I'm gaining. It may be something else completely. Though I can't quite put my finger on whatever it is, I'm grateful.
Today I feel like a fresh coat of paint.