Obviously our culture and Afghan culture differ. And, some things are lost in translation. It usually makes for a good laugh and sometimes for a frustrating conversation.
The other day my QA (Dave) went to check on a building that our Afghan contractor is building. When he looked up at the roof to make sure everybody was working safely he noticed that one guy didn't have any shoes on. He asked him to come down and explain what was going on. The worker told him that his shoes stunk so he took them off. Dave asked him to put his shoes back on but the worker said they were full of sand. Of course Dave asked why they were full of sand and the response was that he was trying to get the smell out of them. We're still not sure who was complaining about the smell of the shoes or who told him to take them off. I guess some mysteries will never be solved.
Below is a letter Sera wrote for our office. Lily didn't want to be left out so she colored it. If you can't read it it says:
Dear Corps of Engineers,
I think it's so nice that you guys are helping Afghanistan. You guys are also bringing so much pride to our country. I just wanted to tell you that my family and I are happy to know that people like you guys are protect our country. Keep up the great work.
Love Sera
That's cute...ur kids sound awesome.
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