Ciao To My Children

I have to say goodbye to my school – properly.

I call Ato Sin and request i come in for an hour and a half to say farewell to students, teachers and staff. And he agrees. Just. But he does keep a very watchful eye on me for the duration of my visit.

All our shocked at my surprise arrival into school. Plenty of bowing from the security guards and Ethiopian friendship handshakes with additional shoulder-rubs. And of the kids simply mob me. Of course they want to know where I have been and I am sticking to the “T” word – always such a rarity in Addis.

I bring my guitar, (for every farewell should be accompanied with a song), and begin at morning line-up time with the Upper Primary students. They are in good voice – with a bracing  rendition of “Coming Round the Mountain”, and i promise them a brief visit in every classroom.

Which I do. With the Pre-Kindy kids. Once so scared of a very tall thin white guy, they all gather round and we share hugs. I thank the teachers and support staff in each room and make my way through all 24 classrooms.

It’s the Grade Twos and Threes who do the most begging and crying, but I am determined to remain strong, despite packing the emergency “soft” (tissue paper) in my bag.

The classroom visits are totally adorable.

There is just enough to go for a quick coffee at The Pavillion (now soon to be the new Pre- KG and KG site) before taking the Early Years line-up time. It’s a short but sweet “Wheels On The Bus” blast on the guitar with Calvin leading the verses and i am delighted it’s all laffy jokey. Just when i think it’s time to skedaddle off, Rasta Rosenburg informs me i have to stay for a Coffee Ceremony. I seem to be doing a lot of these at the moment.

I am presented with a traditional Ethiopian blanket and a large  card from teachers and staff that does cause my eyes to tear. I can use it as a testimonial – it’s very touching.

I thank them again and say ciao.