Friday, June 18, 2010

Today we stopped by a touristy “voodoo” temple. They had ~ 50 pythons. We graciously declined the opportunity to hold one (though Franklin really wanted to). The temple was in Ouidah which is also the location of the Slave Port. Benin was the leading exporter of slaves (to uncomfortably use economic terms) for much of the history of the slave trade.

Our final destination was Glazoue. We took a non-direct route and spent most of the day in the SUV.

We had lunch/supper at Hotel Dako in Bohicon. Nice restaurant with good food and service. Over lunch we watched the U.S. Soccer team go down 2-0 to Slovenia and left in the 79th minute with the U.S. Losing 2-1. (The U.S. eventually tied, we learned later. Franklin says the team should dance with the one that got them to the dance; in other words: give the ball to Donovan.) We also explored the accommodations there. Should there be need, this hotel would be an excellent place to stay.

“Near Death Experiences” are a rarity and meet with much doubt if not intrigue in the U.S. Franklin and I had 37 “NDEs” today on the drive up. There were at least three times that amount for those on motors and on foot. We adapted quickly and learned to wince or close our eyes when the distance between vehicles or persons was measured in inches rather than a foot or more.

The condition of the road between Calavi to Bohicon was awful. Most dirt roads in the U.S. are in better shape—no exagerration. Potholes averaged every 10-15 yards. Of course, we didn't have to swerve or go through that many, but they were there. The swerving felt like a video game and—except for the discomfort in my back—was somewhat entertaining. There were a few occasions when the road for all practical purposes disappeared and became a stretch of nothing but potholes. Each tire did not have to share a pothole—each had its own. The maneuvering of the traffic through these stretches reminded me of the confusion on display when a stick is stuck in an ant mound.

We stopped by the Catholic Center in Dassa. Think “Toccoa.” This place seemed very promising for holding student groups. This location is only 25 minutes from Glazoue.

We arrived at the Bethel and Phillippe came by. Great opportunity to meet him and extend greetings. We talked briefly about plans and partnership. We agreed to discuss more thoroughly tomorrow afternoon/evening. Phillippe expressed a desire to be equal in our partnership—not just the recipient. He longs to be a co-laborer. We hope for him to see that we do not want to assume a colonial posture.

Tomorrow to Lahoton and Lagazohoue. Mark is bringing the motors tomorrow afternoon. Dedication ceremony to follow.