Three Reasons why I like...

>> 11 Feb 2010

Some things I like in Bangladesh and reasons why.

Buses in Bangladesh:
1) They're cheap - a 20-30minute trip will usually set you back about 15Tk (about 15p!)

2) There's normally lots of them - too many infact and it can be very confusing to know which is going where and when. Even though there's lots they're usually very very crowded... but this all adds the fun of the ride.
3) Mob Mentality (in a positive way!)- A man refuses to pay becuase he thinks he's too important so the rest of the bus shout at him until he gets off! Or, we (the smith family) get on and even though the conductor tells us how much to pay the rest of the bus wont let us because we're visitors! (Bus conductor was not happy!)

Still not ridden on top yet!! :(


The work I do:
1) Interesting and fulfilling from a professional point of view - I've developed a range of practical and business skills from slivering bamboo to production planning!
2) Its a social business - yes we're trying to make money but we're ultimately trying to give and keep people in employment who need it the most. We care for and value our workforce, hoping to see a positive impact in their lives - and its working!
3) The people I work with - they work hard, are dedicated, understand the values and concepts of what we're doing and are eager to make it work!

(there are more reasons but it wouldn't fit with the theme and I'd be here forever!)

Having a guard at your house:
1) He says hello in a friendly way every morning!
2) Looks after your shopping if you want to go on to some place else (saves you lugging it up the stairs)
3) Helps you park the car - I'm good with my mirrors but an extra pair of eyes is always useful!

Bangladesh Church:
1) We get to sit on the floor.
2) People are honest about what they are feeling and what they think. Which can be both annoying and likeable.
3) We always listen to and share others prayer requests at the end of the service (and we share lunch!)


Bamboo:
1) Properly managed it sooo sustainable (grows to maturity in 3/4 years - closest other is pine, which takes at least 7 or 8) - Bamboo grows up to 45feet in one year!
2) You can eat it, wear it, stand on it and make nearly everything from it (including coffins - www.oasisbamboocoffins.com)
3) It captures loads and loads of carbon dioxide (much better than the average tree!) So get planting!

Old Dhaka:
1) Its Chaos! - people, rickshaws, foods, sewage, vans, clothing, machine shops, banks, Christmas decorations, the river, the boats... its all happening in a hive of Chaos
2) Always something different to see - and people are always happy to show and talk about what they're doing
3) Boats - its been bread into me from a very early age!


Thanks for reading.... see you soon!

Andy



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