Happy Days

The new security situation had almost stolen our hope of going on the excursions we first had taken for granted, such as the renown trip to faraway Dakhla with the beautiful sand dunes. But that was before today, when we finally saw light at the end of the tunnel we so desperately have refused to shut down. We might really (insh Allah - lets not forget the larger forces at play) go to Dakhla! Our ceaseless enthusiasm never fails to pay off in one way or another..

Another good piece of news is that we might have found a project which will help us keep in touch with and make a sustainable contribution to the community in Amgala after we leave. After a few failed attempts at gathering excitement over a garden project we have found support for resurrecting old sewing traditions. Traditionally, Saharawi women have made everything pertaining to the home with their own hands. For example, before, every dignified woman knew how to piece together a tent, a skill which was passed on through generations. However, many such important crafts are on the verge of being forgotten as the most senior generation is slowly slipping away. The disappearance of these skills is both due to the scarcity of proper handiwork equipment and the provision of carpets and cooking tools by humanitarian organizations - products which used to be made out of leather and other natural materials by Saharawi women. Other Dairas (districts) have succeeded in establishing centers where elderly women teach the younger generations their arts so as to preserve an essential part of Saharawi culture. These centers also offer an opportunity for women to work outside the home. A local female volunteer organization (مجموعة التواصل), which several of our family members are part of, would be responsible for running the project in Amgala, with help of Norwegian funds. We really hope this can become something.

Less unexpected but also quite exciting is the proximate arrival of December, the Christmas month and also the month of many happy events: Norwegian visitors both in the beginning and mid-month, the national Polisario conference which only happens every 5 years, and the reunion with friends and family in our white northern country at the end of the month. It seems like time is speeding, and there is so much to do still. Finally we have become busy, an almost forgotten feeling here in the camps where the only thing of abundance is time. It is a feeling we have missed. However, preparing for departure also means preparing to say goodbye to people who have become family and dear friends. So lets not think too much about that yet. Almost a third of our stay is still left. We will embrace this time.