Don’t lose your spirit! This kind of thing happens to me all the time here in Benin. The moto taxi drivers always ask me for at least twice the price of a normal ride, and get angry with me when I won’t pay it. It wouldn’t be so bad except that it is impossible to get small change here, so I absolutely have to bargain, even if we’re talking 40 cents versus 55 cents.
In addition, officers of the law can really suck.
But I really admire your standing up for yourself. Maybe it didn’t work, but I am sure you can made an impression on the guy.
You’re awesome, keep it up!

Sarah

Don’t let the poor ethics of one individual take down your motivation to help those who need it!

P.

I’m so sorry that you had such a bad experience. Whenever I am teased or taunted here, my immediate thought is also: “why am I here trying to help these ungrateful people.” I later rescind the thought, and recognize that people are people. I will encounter jerks wherever I go. I hope you feel better soon.

~Milena (KF6)

At times, things just go wrong. Some people try to take advantage of you, or worse, they try to steal from you. It’s frustrating to walk around feeling like you’re a big jelly doughnut that everyone wants to take a bite out of. It’s especially frustrating when people in official positions of power are corrupt and dishonest.

Most days, however, I’m in love with the country and its people. So many Cambodians are honest and friendly, quick to smile and help you out, and it’s those people that make me thankful for being here.

Kanae to iu hito to iuttara, subarashii hito da na-a-a to omou. Gambatte ne.

best,
Teresa

I hope that you will remember that you are not alone. There are so many in our group, and even though we are spread around the world, we have come through for one another in amazing ways. We all understand and are here for you whenever you need.

Regards,
Evie, KF6/KF7

I have had many similar experiences here in Ghana–the paid lessons as you call them–and also agree it is frustrating. I think it is especially hard because we are so not used to it and don’t want to think of people seeing us as nothing more than money that they want to take. I have had some amazing experiences here too but am still struggling with the idea that people can treat others that way.

I am still trying to understand my experiences myself, but hopefully they will help you and me both to become stronger people who don’t let such actions get in the way of our ideals.

Good luck over there, and I will be thinking of you!

Cassie, KF6

I’m thinking about you and hoping that you are feeling better after such a bad experience trying to extend your visa. The bureaucracy of that kind of thing is frustrating in one’s own country; when you are in another country and culture it can be overwhelming, especially since being parted from one’s passport always instills terror! I’m sorry that you were cheated and felt alone, it’s an awful feeling. But I am sure that you have had/will have many many wonderful experiences in Cambodia to make up for it. We are all behind you and here for you!
Sarah Forbes kf6

Please don’t do that, though. Remember how very much the people need microfinance. But definitely be wary as a serpent in dealing with people there.

And be willing to call in support when you need it.

We’re behind you!