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November 14, 2003
Body and Mind
My body has finally given out. Whether it was the hike or my meal with friends (see previous entries), or just five weeks on the road, my stomach has been unfit for anything all day. I tried to go to the National Museum, and made it part way through but had to rush back to the hotel. The situation is uncomfortable enough I may consult a doctor.
It's difficult to travel for so long, with different foods, climates and sleeping conditions. But it's also stressful to be working most of the time. I have tried to take some down time, but always in the back of my mind is the sense that I have been given this opportunity and I should make good use of it. But carrying gear, making appointments in foreign languages, finding addresses and transportation all take their toll. In addition, many people here don't want to be recorded, creating its own kind of stress because I don't want to get anyone in trouble.
It probably bears mentioning that most of the other female videojournalists on this fellowship have taken their husbands or boyfriends with them to film. That would be great. Just to have someone else to check equipment, make phone calls and bounce ideas off of would be a welcome relief.
With just about one week to go, I feel particularly pressed. I was supposed to go on an anthropological field trip for the next two days, but the leader never called me back, and it's probably just as well since I am sick. I will try and see some more museums and firm up appointments for next week. One has to listen to one's body, after all!
Posted by MJF at November 14, 2003 01:54 PM
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