The Long Goodbye Part 5 - Completion Ceremony

Sunday 10^th June

The “Good-byes” keep on coming thick and fast with the Completion Ceremony on Friday at the Sheraton Hotel.  Transport provided, with plenty of delicious food and the chance to say goodbye to those people whom you have met at various points during our time in Georgia.  Martin decided not to go as he had been asked to be a judge at the Georgia’s got Talent show at his school and he did miss out.

Me and Danielle

It was a well thought out event; we were seated according to region and then were called up to the stage to receive our Completion Certificate.  We even had time for a practice run!  The Prime Minister and Minister of Education and Science was there and a few people had been nominated to give a 2 minute speech each which added to the occasion.  There were four TLGers who were still here after 2 years and part of the first group.  They received a special award and their marbles back.  Spirits were high and there was a vibrant energy as people were having their final chats, hugs and photos.  I had planned to meet up with Paula (the person who told us about the Ethiopian School) but actually when it came to it I just didn’t want to actually do it.  In all the excitement about going home and onto the next adventure the realisation comes that we are also leaving a lot behind.  I found I just didn’t want to say goodbye to her. 

From left: Ren Sherrer, Caitlin O'Neill, Mark Coxen and me

From left: Ren Sherrer, Ellie Pullan, me and Justina  Jenkins

Paula Diller and me

I know I have moaned and complained about Georgia and it has been tough, very tough at times, when you put it into perspective it is a great country with great people who are just struggling like the rest of us to get by and bring up our families.  It has been an amazing experience, seeing the country, getting to know the people a little, working in the schools and living in the grim conditions that your everyday Georgian lives.

NB when Martin got to school he found out that Georgia’s Got Talent had been postponed until Monday.  That’s Georgia for you!