In a run-downbuilding in Monrovia, the sound of typing mixes with traffic.
Pastor andformer accountant William Saydee has set up his shop here, as a professionaltypist and teacher. "As you can see, our country, we are rebuilding,"Saydee said. "Investors are not coming. It is a national reconciliation andreconstruction process. So I feel that I should be part of it. Before the government can find a way andthings will be all right, I can do something to live, and help others tolive."
One of hisbest students is his own son. The twoof them are the fastest typists on this block.
Former night guard Isaiah Thomas, 33, is slower but says he is learning. "It isa little difficult because the typewriter is not fresh," Thomas said. "It is anold typewriter. So when we are doing it, it gives a problem a little bit. Butif you are willing to learn to the best of your ability, you have to do it,because you can achieve something tomorrow, for the benefit of your life."
Thomas sayshe wants to become a secretary for an international company.
Saydeemakes money by typing out contracts and resumes for passersby.
"Whateverlittle thing I get for the day is enough.I thank God for it," Saydee said. "And looking at our brothers too,wanting to do something for themselves but they do not have the skill. I havethe initiative to give back to them on a free of charge basis. I do not charge them any money because theydo not have any."
Saydee sayshis life has taken many twists and turns but that his faith carries him. He says decency and helping others, even invery difficult conditions, is what he can do.