Sunset from the bow


IMGP3400
Originally uploaded by keith.brinkman

If the weather permits (meaning the waves are not coming over the bow), the deck officers open the bow for the crew to go out after dinner to watch the sunset. I am in the midst of the group there as my friend Marcin from Poland has taken this beautiful photo. Though the sunset was not terrific, it was just enjoyable to be out there.

Sail out of Liberia Dec08

My last shot of Central Monrovia in the background. This was taken a couple days before we sailed out of Monrovia. I have basically lived in Liberia for two entire years. I have mixed emotions about leaving, not knowing when I will see the people here again, especially the children at the orphanages that I have been so involved with.

Santa Lucia Dec 08


Santa Lucia Dec 08
Originally uploaded by keith.brinkman

Our Scandanavian crew shared one of their traditions with the entire crew of the ship – Santa Lucia – they sing various songs in their various languages and my friend JP shared some of the Christmas story, but with a Liberian accent. The whole event happened in what we call ‘Town Square’ in the middle of the ship.

Dayworker Thank You Reception

As a way to honor and thank our dayworkers, we host a special Reception for them. Dayworkers are local Liberians who served as translators, cooks, security guards, cleaners and in many different roles – we provide a daily stipend and a meal. Many of my closest African friends have been dayworkers as we serve together. For this reception, we started out with a great African meal provided for lunch for everyone. Then we moved to the International Lounge and I had the privilege to be the MC. Following African music/dance, our Managing Director and Captain expressed their thanks. Then, three of the dayworkers shared a response and we closed with a prayer and benediction from one of the chaplains. Afterwards we enjoyed ice cream and time to say ‘thank you’ and ‘goodbye’.

Vice President Visits

As a thank you to the crew, Vice President Boakai and the Minister of Health blessed the entire crew with a catered meal. Following the great meal, we had a reception in the International Lounge and we shared about our program activities for 2008. Various ones from the Government of Liberia shared their thanks to the crew on behalf of the people of Liberia.

Thank you Reception

Towards the end of a field service, we always have what we call a Thank You Reception in order to provide an opportunity to thank our partners and others who have made it possible. I was tasked with the guest list and invitations. We extended an invitation to Her Excellency Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, though since she had just been with us at the clinic dedication, we didn’t know if she would come. Well, she did and graced us with a heart filled speech – it was a blessing to all the crew there and for the other invited guests.