Cuffs and chivalry

refectoire @ Kaedi

Today during session, we learned that PCVs have no diplomatic status, i.e. we are not exempt from local Mauritanian laws. I raised my hand and ask Sidna – Director of Stage? Director of something – if a list of Mauritanian laws will be posted at the center or distributed to the trainees. His answer, which was as lengthy as dodgy, was essentially no, to which we responded with nervous laughter and shifty glances. Caren offered her two cents to break the tension: “Watch spitting be illegal. Cuffs motherfucker.” Needless to say, I love Caren and her inappropriate way of expressing a very appropriate sentiment.

Bahenna greeted me after session in French and my coordinator Keith came to my rescue, discouraging him from overwhelming the stagaires (fancy PC name for trainees) with too much language after too much traveling. While the gesture was sweet, I am happy to admit that Keith cared more than I did. To be honest, I was feeling resilient enough to banter en francais, at least through a greeting or two. Here’s to hoping my boundless energy is sustainable…