Carson Phillips

Dispatch seven is written by Carson Phillips and Simisola Oyeleye.  Carson is entering his third year and is a DAAS major. They both write about the last two days in Botswana and Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.  The video in Carson’s piece shows the magical moments on the Chobe River as we watched a long line of elephants glide across the water.

Enjoy, Nesha Z. Haniff.

We Show That Americans Also Believe in Ubuntu

In POA, there is a concept that we like to talk about, divine intervention. That is how POA always seems to be at the right place at the right time. Throughout our trip, this has repeatedly been the case. On our safari trip down the Chobe River, we experienced one of these memorable divine interventions.

At the start of the day, it was decided that we would switch the time of the boat tour due to the windy weather. An extra delay, our land tour took longer than expected because of our encountering of several lions. After an amazing tour of the beautiful land of Botswana, our boat tour of the Chobe River finally began. Even another delay, our boat broke down about thirty minutes into our tour. Our talented tour guide, Vandross, was quick to fix it. As we continued down the river, we came upon a large group of elephants lining up behind their leader, preparing to cross the river to the luscious green island in the center of the river.  We waited for them to cross but unfortunately, it just seemed as though it was not going to happen. And so we continued on to see some more magnificent creatures. On our way back to the dock, we returned to find the elephants beginning to cross the river. The line was now spread across the river with one elephant holding the tail of the one in front with its trunk, ensuring that none of the elephants were left behind. As they reached the island, we could hear the gracefulness and elegance of their powerful steps.Had any of the tiny distractions not happened, we would not have had this unforgettable experience.  In many ways, the cooperation of the elephants reflects the close community of POA. As a team, we teach together, strengthening each other’s weaknesses, ensuring that no one is left behind. Regardless of our unique backgrounds, we are united as one. Beyond simply teaching caring and kindness in our module, we live and act with care and kindness every day. We show that Americans also believe in Ubuntu. And that is the POA difference.

As we boarded the plane for Victoria Falls in Johannesburg, I was reminded about how privileged we are to be able to enjoy these experiences at such a young age. The majority of the passengers on the plane wasmore elderly, many of whom were most likely fulfilling their dream of seeing one of the seven wonders of the world, Victoria Falls. Most of us in our early twenties are extremely privileged to have such a wonderful opportunity. As Dr. Haniff once told Zakiyah, “YOLO.” (You only live once)

As spectacular of a memory the safari will be, it is very minute in comparison to the immeasurable   value of the rest of the trip. Those good times and difficult times where we stood alongside one another, celebrating and comforting one another. I shall never forget those times where we learned the most about ourselves. For it is those breathtaking moments that will forever shape who I am to become. As much as I am excited to return to the United States and miss my family and friends, upon my arrival home, I will greatly miss my new family, my family at POA. I have been privileged to have seen the beauty of Africa, of its land, of its nature, and most importantly, of its people. And it is through the people that we have learned the most about Africa. And for that, I am forever grateful.

Carson Phillips
Pedagogy of Action Team Member 2012

This short clip shows the elephants moving from the mainland to an island for the evening:

• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1drP-23cKao