Reflections from Far, Far Away 2

Tue 3/23/2004 6:46 PM

Aim-

I'm looking forward to hearing your thoughts on reconciliation and the culture gap as it pertains specifically to our educational systems. Suzanne's story on college rivalries and Thoko's comment that SA couldn't afford such rivalries was poignant. Rivalry is such an integral part of our school experiences. It's interesting that Columbia, as an open admissions art school without any teams or any "rivals" is the school who has made the connection with South Africa post-apartheid. Maybe that's because other schools would be just too far outside of SA's experience to even be able to share cultures. Do you feel, after this experience, like American students are clueless, or is there some contact zone, some element of truly shared culture that you are able to see? What might you punch up in future sections of the class? Have you talked about that yet with the team?

I know it's only your second day there, but these are questions that your stories have sparked for me. I'm really looking forward to the non-stop talking and story-telling when you return. Clearly this is going to be a watershed experience for all of you, in terms of your friendships, your identity, and your teaching. You inspire me.

I love you,
Reen