Settling in to Life in Rayenda

I’ve been here in Rayenda for a week and a bit now and I’m starting to settle in and get comfortable. I was originally a bit scared that the program would be full of super serious save the world types and I’d have to adapt to a life without silliness. Fortunately there are some very funny people here and seriousness hasn’t been an option. I’ve even found a couple who enjoy talking about poo as much as I do (is there anything more funny than poo?) so that’s provided even more entertainment for my sick and twisted mind.

There are about 25 of us in the house but I’m having no problems at all coping with that. I think living in squalor in London for so many years has prepared me for living in close quarters with lots of other people… and mice and the occasional cockroach. All up though I think the setup here is great. My room is quiet, the bunk beds are sturdy and now that I’ve hooked myself up with a pillow and a blanket life is good.

Some things I’ve learned in my short time here:

• I’m getting used to the world of squat toilets and have only peed down the side of my leg once.
• I’ve accepted the fact that Bangladeshi chocolate has been somehow robbed of all taste.
• I’ve learned that to avoid being served huge amounts of food when a guest in someone’s home you have to counter their surprise serving attack with a two-handed plate cover and a shout of ‘na!’
• I’m ok with the staring and have grown used to having 15 locals help me buy grapes in the market or follow me home.
• I’ve got some insider information on the location of the only market stall that sells cold drinks and ice cream and have a source to lead me to the place that sells ketchup.
• I’ve accepted the fact that the power will go out at least five times each night.
• I’ve gained a new appreciation for lentils and accepted my forced quasi-vegetarianism.
• I’ve gotten used to kids asking my name and country 450,000 times as I walk down the street.

And most importantly I’m just really happy to be here in this great community and looking forward to all the other little things Bangladesh has in store for me.