May 2008
It is always important to remember when working at the Nairobi Animal Orphanage that you should NEVER let yourself become attached to any of the baby animals in the nursery. I thought I had learned this lesson well, but I was wrong. During my time here I have seen countless young animals come and then eventually die, none of that ever affected me until a few weeks ago when we received a young zebra.
We called him Kiseme and he was around two weeks old, umbilical cord still attached when he arrived. He was so friendly right from the start, following anyone and everyone wherever they went. My coworkers, who can easily become annoyed by the antics of our young buffalo, were extremely tolerant of the zebra who often found himself in their way. Around the zebra’s third day at the Orphanage he began to realize who his new mother was, and forgetting the guys, took to following only me. I of course was ecstatic. It was wonderful to have little horse hooves following me everywhere I went, and a little horse nose to nudge me for constant attention. I was more than happy to spend my entire day around the Orphanage so that he could drink mild every one to two hours But all this quickly ended when after being with us for only one week, Kiseme died in the middle of the day. I had done all that I could for him that morning, but the fact that he had been given cow’s milk his first two days at the Orphanage had poisoned his system anyway.
I was sad and disappointed but tried to hide it from the guys and continued work as usual. My coworkers were not fooled. They had seen how happy I had been with the zebra around and knew I was upset. The out pouring of sympathy and compassion that they showed me the rest of the day was like nothing I have ever experienced. As I’m sure you can imagine, working all day with over 15 guys is typically anything but compassionate, but this day they all changed. Guys who I spend my day giving and receiving sometimes harsh, but always playful jokes and comments with suddenly became quiet, sweet, and caring. I received more understanding hugs, kind smiles, and heartfelt words than ever before in my life.
This out pouring of sympathetic love from them showed me how much I really mean to them and how much they all mean to me. None of them were sad for the zebra, they were sad because of me. I can’t begin to explain how much it meant to me that they cared so much about my feelings. I can now clearly see that we are all a big family, and the best part is that I’m a member of it. I truly believe that I experienced God’s love that day in the most real way possible. God took this sad moment in my life and used it to show me how I have become a valued member of a community. He allowed me to see that I have had an impact on the people around me in Kenya. I can now feel inside of me why God sent me to Kenya and also what Kenya has become for me.
I thank God for little Kiseme and they joy he brought me, but even more for fully revealing my true Kenyan family to me.
Showing posts with label Kenya. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Kenya. Show all posts
Sunday, May 25, 2008
April Newsletter - Sarah W. in Kenya
April 2008
One evening several weeks ago, Mercy and I had just finished cooking dinner and we were talking as we put food on our plates. I set my plate in the sitting room and then headed back to the kitchen to continue our conversation. When I stepped in the doorway I saw Mercy, who only seconds ago had been talking with me, standing with her dinner plate, eyes closed, completely silent and still. I was taken by surprise at seeing this and my first thought was “oh my gosh! She’s fallen asleep?!” I called her name, slightly worried. No reply. I said her name again and she looked up at me. I asked her if she was ok and she replied “of course! I was just praying.” Needless to say we had a good laugh about it but this scene made me think more about prayer here in Kenya.
In many churches in America there is a specific time, place, and way of praying and anything else can come as a surprise. Here though prayer is accepted as a much more normal thing. If the person sitting next to you on Sunday morning began speaking quietly but rather emotionally during prayers, hymns, or even announcements you would probably question their actions, while here that is a very common form of prayer, happening multiple times in every worship service.
The Nairobi Arboretum, one of the most beautiful and popular parks in town, is also a popular place to go and pray. My first time there it took me a while to realize that people were actually praying. Kenyans will find a tree off the path and either standing near it or walking around it begin to pray rather loudly, sometimes even shouting, in a variety of languages from English, to Swahili, to their mother tongue or tribal language. While at work at the Animal Orphanage I have seen Muslims stop to kneel and do their daily prayers right in the middle of the Orphanage. Their devotion to God was not hindered by their public location.
I think as Americans we can learn something from Kenyans about prayer. Conversations with God should not be forced to fit into a specific setting. We should never feel embarrassed or ashamed to talk to our Heavenly Father. Maybe you don’t pray before eating inside a restaurant because you wonder what other people will think. Maybe you force yourself to pray in silence so that others aren’t disturbed or so that they won’t know you are praying. While it is true that God doesn’t want us to become arrogant and pray publicly just to draw attention for ourselves, I don’t think He wants us to think we can only pray in certain places or ways.
Mercy and other Kenyans have made me feel much more comfortable about prayer. They have shown me that where and how you pray doesn’t matter, but it’s the setting inside your heart that counts.
One evening several weeks ago, Mercy and I had just finished cooking dinner and we were talking as we put food on our plates. I set my plate in the sitting room and then headed back to the kitchen to continue our conversation. When I stepped in the doorway I saw Mercy, who only seconds ago had been talking with me, standing with her dinner plate, eyes closed, completely silent and still. I was taken by surprise at seeing this and my first thought was “oh my gosh! She’s fallen asleep?!” I called her name, slightly worried. No reply. I said her name again and she looked up at me. I asked her if she was ok and she replied “of course! I was just praying.” Needless to say we had a good laugh about it but this scene made me think more about prayer here in Kenya.
In many churches in America there is a specific time, place, and way of praying and anything else can come as a surprise. Here though prayer is accepted as a much more normal thing. If the person sitting next to you on Sunday morning began speaking quietly but rather emotionally during prayers, hymns, or even announcements you would probably question their actions, while here that is a very common form of prayer, happening multiple times in every worship service.
The Nairobi Arboretum, one of the most beautiful and popular parks in town, is also a popular place to go and pray. My first time there it took me a while to realize that people were actually praying. Kenyans will find a tree off the path and either standing near it or walking around it begin to pray rather loudly, sometimes even shouting, in a variety of languages from English, to Swahili, to their mother tongue or tribal language. While at work at the Animal Orphanage I have seen Muslims stop to kneel and do their daily prayers right in the middle of the Orphanage. Their devotion to God was not hindered by their public location.
I think as Americans we can learn something from Kenyans about prayer. Conversations with God should not be forced to fit into a specific setting. We should never feel embarrassed or ashamed to talk to our Heavenly Father. Maybe you don’t pray before eating inside a restaurant because you wonder what other people will think. Maybe you force yourself to pray in silence so that others aren’t disturbed or so that they won’t know you are praying. While it is true that God doesn’t want us to become arrogant and pray publicly just to draw attention for ourselves, I don’t think He wants us to think we can only pray in certain places or ways.
Mercy and other Kenyans have made me feel much more comfortable about prayer. They have shown me that where and how you pray doesn’t matter, but it’s the setting inside your heart that counts.
Sunday, May 11, 2008
April 2008, Update from Gatundu! - Sarah L. in Kenya
April 2008 Newsletter: Update from Gatundu, Kenya
The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts, and though all its parts are many, they form one body. So it is with Christ.
-1 Corinthians 12:12
This verse has a great deal of significance for me as I serve in Kenya. …And though all its parts are many, they form one body. Throughout the post-election chaos and aftermath, it is blindingly clear that Kenya is made up of many parts-its 40+ tribal groups. Even before the presidential election, a common question to ask a new acquaintance was what tribe they belong to. What may often be just curiosity or a hope for a better understanding of a new friend's heritage, has unfortunately become a source of fear amongst the Kenyan people.
Since January 2008, several individuals have begun to turn on their neighbors of different tribes due to propaganda that "others" could not be trusted. *Please note that I am not generalizing that this applies to all Kenyans or even many Kenyans.* People were even afraid to share their names because many names divulged their tribal heritage. Many Kenyans who did not live in homogeneous communities packed up their lives and moved (generally to police stations or IDP-Internally Displaced Persons-camps) in fear that their own neighbors would turn on them.
This is why I think this passage in 1 Corinthians 12 is so relevant to my current context: The eye cannot say to the hand, 'I don't need you.' And the head cannot say to the feat, 'I don't need you!' … But God has combined the members of the body so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. If one part suffers, every part suffers with it. If one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. (1 Corinthians 12: 21, 24-26). Verse 26 has been especially true in the past four months. No matter who was considered a victim, an instigator, or who played the part of Switzerland, everyone has suffered from the post-election violence.
Only on Sunday were some of the IDPs returning to their homes, where likely a home no longer existed. Food prices have risen exponentially because hundreds of thousands of people were displaced and therefore, unable to harvest and cultivate their crops. An outbreak of cholera swept through the IDP camps, in addition to the malaria, dysentery and HIV/AIDS that plagued the areas. Even though the majority of the violence has subsided, Kenyans continue to suffer from the aftermath.
What I like about his passage in Corinthians is that it reminds us that we are all in this together (12:27). We are all part of God's plan and no person is placed about another. In order for us to function as one body, we must realize that we cannot survive without each other.
A quick update from the field:
April is a holiday month for most Kenyan schools between Term 1 and 2. I spent most of my time recuperating in Nairobi (there are far less bugs there!), however, I did have the chance to travel to South Africa with another volunteer. We specifically wanted to learn more about the effects of the apartheid, so we travelled to Soweto, the township where Nelson Mandela did much of his work/organizing. We also went to Robben Island off of Cape Town where Mandela and other political prisoners were kept. The prison only closed in 1994!
I am now back at school in Gatundu for my last term. The term ends at the end of July and I will be returning to MN in August.
While on holiday, I learned several new Kiswahili phrases (that I should've learned a long time ago):
Una kuja saa ngapi?: What time are you coming?
Ume fika nyumbani?: Have you reached home?
Tuonane kesho: See you tomorrow.
Prayer Requests:
1. For those living in IDP camps as they prepare to return to what is left of their homes
2. For a fellow Young Adult Volunteer, who has had to end his year of service early due to a family illness
3. For the students of Icaciri Secondary School as they begin their 2nd Term
Thank you for your continued prayers and support!
Blessings,
Sarah Larson
Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.
1 Corinthians 12: 27
The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts, and though all its parts are many, they form one body. So it is with Christ.
-1 Corinthians 12:12
This verse has a great deal of significance for me as I serve in Kenya. …And though all its parts are many, they form one body. Throughout the post-election chaos and aftermath, it is blindingly clear that Kenya is made up of many parts-its 40+ tribal groups. Even before the presidential election, a common question to ask a new acquaintance was what tribe they belong to. What may often be just curiosity or a hope for a better understanding of a new friend's heritage, has unfortunately become a source of fear amongst the Kenyan people.
Since January 2008, several individuals have begun to turn on their neighbors of different tribes due to propaganda that "others" could not be trusted. *Please note that I am not generalizing that this applies to all Kenyans or even many Kenyans.* People were even afraid to share their names because many names divulged their tribal heritage. Many Kenyans who did not live in homogeneous communities packed up their lives and moved (generally to police stations or IDP-Internally Displaced Persons-camps) in fear that their own neighbors would turn on them.
This is why I think this passage in 1 Corinthians 12 is so relevant to my current context: The eye cannot say to the hand, 'I don't need you.' And the head cannot say to the feat, 'I don't need you!' … But God has combined the members of the body so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. If one part suffers, every part suffers with it. If one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. (1 Corinthians 12: 21, 24-26). Verse 26 has been especially true in the past four months. No matter who was considered a victim, an instigator, or who played the part of Switzerland, everyone has suffered from the post-election violence.
Only on Sunday were some of the IDPs returning to their homes, where likely a home no longer existed. Food prices have risen exponentially because hundreds of thousands of people were displaced and therefore, unable to harvest and cultivate their crops. An outbreak of cholera swept through the IDP camps, in addition to the malaria, dysentery and HIV/AIDS that plagued the areas. Even though the majority of the violence has subsided, Kenyans continue to suffer from the aftermath.
What I like about his passage in Corinthians is that it reminds us that we are all in this together (12:27). We are all part of God's plan and no person is placed about another. In order for us to function as one body, we must realize that we cannot survive without each other.
A quick update from the field:
April is a holiday month for most Kenyan schools between Term 1 and 2. I spent most of my time recuperating in Nairobi (there are far less bugs there!), however, I did have the chance to travel to South Africa with another volunteer. We specifically wanted to learn more about the effects of the apartheid, so we travelled to Soweto, the township where Nelson Mandela did much of his work/organizing. We also went to Robben Island off of Cape Town where Mandela and other political prisoners were kept. The prison only closed in 1994!
I am now back at school in Gatundu for my last term. The term ends at the end of July and I will be returning to MN in August.
While on holiday, I learned several new Kiswahili phrases (that I should've learned a long time ago):
Una kuja saa ngapi?: What time are you coming?
Ume fika nyumbani?: Have you reached home?
Tuonane kesho: See you tomorrow.
Prayer Requests:
1. For those living in IDP camps as they prepare to return to what is left of their homes
2. For a fellow Young Adult Volunteer, who has had to end his year of service early due to a family illness
3. For the students of Icaciri Secondary School as they begin their 2nd Term
Thank you for your continued prayers and support!
Blessings,
Sarah Larson
Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.
1 Corinthians 12: 27
Saturday, April 12, 2008
March Newsletter - Sarah W. in Kenya
March 2008
The month of March has been a very busy one for me. I have spent everyday of the week except for Sundays working at the Animal Orphanage and Safari Walk. Because of spending so much time at work I have been able to take many pictures of my animals and friends and wanted to share some of them with all of you. Hope you enjoy!
This adorable animal is my newest baby at the Orphanage. She is a Lesser Kudu, a member of the antelope family, and around 3-4 months old. Although it’s hard to tell from this picture, she is incredibly small, about the size of small dog, with her head barely reaching the height of my knees! She arrived on a Sunday when I wasn’t working, so on Monday when I came the guys at work all said to me “Sarah, did you know you gave birth yesterday?” She doesn’t have an official name yet, but she responds to my voice and follows me around the nursery area whenever I’m there.
Here is a picture of me and Julius, my brother who I mentioned in my last newsletter. On this day he and several of the others guys were working on a pipeline connecting water between the Safari Walk and Animal Orphanage. For a period of over two weeks we could only get water from one tap at the Orphanage, which became extremely tiresome because obtaining water from that one tap often meant climbing over multiple fences to carry the water to the desired destination. The management decided that a trench and pipeline connecting the two places would be more efficient, so the guys spent an entire week digging. Ironically, water has come back to the Orphanage on its own, without the pipeline, therefore the project has been abandoned. That’s sometimes how things work around here.
This is one of my favorite coworkers Samuel with two of our lion cubs. Yes, those big animals are cubs! Sammy does a lot of work around the Orphanage from fixing fences to animal care. On Sundays or days when I can’t come into work he is the one who takes care of my babies for me, making sure they all get their milk on time and come into the nursery at night.
Here is a picture of me in my work overalls with Kofi, a chimpanzee who was staying at the KWS vet office for one month. Kofi was rescued from Rwanda and was on his way to a chimpanzee sanctuary in Kenya. We had him for a one month quarantine to ensure he was fully healthy before moving onto the sanctuary. Kofi had his own private caretakers from the sanctuary, but his keepers and I became friends and they allowed me to visit him often during his stay with us. Kofi understands more Swahili than me! He also offered his hand for a greeting handshake whenever I came to see him.
My last picture is of my beloved buffalo, Bob. Bob has been with us at the Orphanage since he arrived around 3 weeks of age in early December last year. He is most recently recovering from a very serious digestive problem that left him weak and near dying. He is a little fighter and has pulled through rather quickly, now returning to his annoying antics of following me so close that he hits the backs of my knees causing my legs to buckle beneath me. Bob is my most loyal child, running to greet me whenever I am in sight and making it his personal job to go anyplace I do, even if that means right next to the lion or hyena cages.
It is the memories and stories like these that I have shared with you that make my time here in Kenya so wonderful. I am reminded everyday of how blessed I am to be able to experience God so fully in the simplest activities of everyday life.
The month of March has been a very busy one for me. I have spent everyday of the week except for Sundays working at the Animal Orphanage and Safari Walk. Because of spending so much time at work I have been able to take many pictures of my animals and friends and wanted to share some of them with all of you. Hope you enjoy!
This adorable animal is my newest baby at the Orphanage. She is a Lesser Kudu, a member of the antelope family, and around 3-4 months old. Although it’s hard to tell from this picture, she is incredibly small, about the size of small dog, with her head barely reaching the height of my knees! She arrived on a Sunday when I wasn’t working, so on Monday when I came the guys at work all said to me “Sarah, did you know you gave birth yesterday?” She doesn’t have an official name yet, but she responds to my voice and follows me around the nursery area whenever I’m there.
Here is a picture of me and Julius, my brother who I mentioned in my last newsletter. On this day he and several of the others guys were working on a pipeline connecting water between the Safari Walk and Animal Orphanage. For a period of over two weeks we could only get water from one tap at the Orphanage, which became extremely tiresome because obtaining water from that one tap often meant climbing over multiple fences to carry the water to the desired destination. The management decided that a trench and pipeline connecting the two places would be more efficient, so the guys spent an entire week digging. Ironically, water has come back to the Orphanage on its own, without the pipeline, therefore the project has been abandoned. That’s sometimes how things work around here.
This is one of my favorite coworkers Samuel with two of our lion cubs. Yes, those big animals are cubs! Sammy does a lot of work around the Orphanage from fixing fences to animal care. On Sundays or days when I can’t come into work he is the one who takes care of my babies for me, making sure they all get their milk on time and come into the nursery at night.
Here is a picture of me in my work overalls with Kofi, a chimpanzee who was staying at the KWS vet office for one month. Kofi was rescued from Rwanda and was on his way to a chimpanzee sanctuary in Kenya. We had him for a one month quarantine to ensure he was fully healthy before moving onto the sanctuary. Kofi had his own private caretakers from the sanctuary, but his keepers and I became friends and they allowed me to visit him often during his stay with us. Kofi understands more Swahili than me! He also offered his hand for a greeting handshake whenever I came to see him.
My last picture is of my beloved buffalo, Bob. Bob has been with us at the Orphanage since he arrived around 3 weeks of age in early December last year. He is most recently recovering from a very serious digestive problem that left him weak and near dying. He is a little fighter and has pulled through rather quickly, now returning to his annoying antics of following me so close that he hits the backs of my knees causing my legs to buckle beneath me. Bob is my most loyal child, running to greet me whenever I am in sight and making it his personal job to go anyplace I do, even if that means right next to the lion or hyena cages.
It is the memories and stories like these that I have shared with you that make my time here in Kenya so wonderful. I am reminded everyday of how blessed I am to be able to experience God so fully in the simplest activities of everyday life.
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Feb/March Update from Gatundu Kenya - Sarah L.
February/March 2008 Newsletter: Update from Gatundu, Kenya
I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live a new life.
-From one of my favorite childhood camp songs from Luther Park Bible Camp in Danbury, WI
I seem to always begin my newsletters by apologizing. This one is no different. But I wish you would try to pry yourself away from political commentators, English marking schemes, My So-Called Life reruns and 10 shilling (20 cent!) chai tea long enough to write a newsletter. =)
As I write this, I am spending my days and nights marking end-of-term examinations for my Form 1 and 2 English students during the what-seems-to-be-endless rainy season. The term will end on April 9th when the students and I will have three weeks of r&r before second term begins in May. I have been entrusted to be the “head teacher” for an enter class of new Form 1s. I think after two months of teaching and preaching, the students have finally stopped smirking at my accent and funny hair color and have started to actually learn something from me. Who else is going to teach them the differences between collective nouns and phrasal quantifiers?
In the beginning of March, I had the great fortune of entertaining my parents in Kenya for two weeks. It was calming to finally show them the desk in which I plan my lessons and wonderful people I have been able to share my life with this year. I am sure that many of you have already seen the pictures and received the memo from the Kenya Tourism Agency (my mother) about the wonders of Kenya and its people.
I know that the season of Lent has come and gone, but since this newsletter is tardy, please bare with me. Recently, I’ve been reading this fabulous handbook that I had picked up at Luther Seminary by Daniel Erlander, Baptized, We Live: Lutheranism as a Way of Life. For anyone who survived off of Cliff’s Notes in high school, this handbook is for you! Among the simplified explanations for Lutheran liturgy and why Lutherans think the way they do, there is a thought-provoking section on Martin Luther’s Theology of the Cross.
Throughout the season of Lent, we are constantly reminded of the extreme sacrifice that Jesus made for us, his death on the cross. In his book, Erlander writes, “We [must] accept [the] reality that we humans would do almost anything to avoid, to ignore, to escape, to evade. That reality is this: We are called to die in order to live.” We are called to die in order to live. Luther’s Theology of the Cross, calls us to do just that.
I don’t know about you, but this is not an easy concept for me. How do I let go of myself, how do I die, so that I may give myself completely to God? A concept I struggled with all throughout seminary, Erlander makes very clear. Luther is calling us to drown our sins and self and be renewed in the Holy Spirit. He calls us to be renewed in our Baptism each and every day. My favorite part of Luther’s theology is that we meet God where he chooses to find us, in our sorrow, our pain, and our weakness.
While serving in Kenya, I’ve been reminded time and time again that I do not call the shots. Whatever happens, whatever I experience, whomever I meet, is not of my own doing. God’s plans are so much bigger (and wiser) than my own. Meet God wherever he chooses to find us… This year, I am constantly aware, and often reminded, of my fears and weaknesses. How refreshing to remember that it is only through these fears and weaknesses, only through my letting go of myself, that I may die in self and be renewed in the Holy Spirit. While living in Gatundu, I have learned to put my absolute trust in God.
As a community and as a country, we have endured numerous hardships and heartaches in the past seven months that I have lived here. But even amidst all of the heartache, I still hear (and am reminded) daily that, God is good, all the time. All the time, God is good. He is always watching over us. The faith of the Kenyan people continue to shine brightly each and everyday. It is only through giving ourselves completely to God that we may truly live. I am very fortunate to have been able to witness Luther’s Theology of the Cross lived out daily in my community.
Kiswahili lesson:
Nimechoka: I am tired Nimeshukuru: I am thankful
Nahisi njaa: I am hungry Nimeokoka: I am saved
Nimeshiba: I am full/satisfied
Prayer Requests:
1. For the outbreak of cholera in the camps for Internally Displaced People (IDPs) from the election violence.
2. For the continued effort on the sides of President Kibaki and Prime Minister Odinga to honor the coalition government agreement mediated by Kofi Annan and his team.
3. For peace, truth and justice in Zimbabwe, in regards to the presidential elections that some fear may be following in Kenya’s footsteps
Thank you all for your continued support.
Peace be with you,
Sarah
Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it.” Matthew 16:24-25
I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live a new life.
-From one of my favorite childhood camp songs from Luther Park Bible Camp in Danbury, WI
I seem to always begin my newsletters by apologizing. This one is no different. But I wish you would try to pry yourself away from political commentators, English marking schemes, My So-Called Life reruns and 10 shilling (20 cent!) chai tea long enough to write a newsletter. =)
As I write this, I am spending my days and nights marking end-of-term examinations for my Form 1 and 2 English students during the what-seems-to-be-endless rainy season. The term will end on April 9th when the students and I will have three weeks of r&r before second term begins in May. I have been entrusted to be the “head teacher” for an enter class of new Form 1s. I think after two months of teaching and preaching, the students have finally stopped smirking at my accent and funny hair color and have started to actually learn something from me. Who else is going to teach them the differences between collective nouns and phrasal quantifiers?
In the beginning of March, I had the great fortune of entertaining my parents in Kenya for two weeks. It was calming to finally show them the desk in which I plan my lessons and wonderful people I have been able to share my life with this year. I am sure that many of you have already seen the pictures and received the memo from the Kenya Tourism Agency (my mother) about the wonders of Kenya and its people.
I know that the season of Lent has come and gone, but since this newsletter is tardy, please bare with me. Recently, I’ve been reading this fabulous handbook that I had picked up at Luther Seminary by Daniel Erlander, Baptized, We Live: Lutheranism as a Way of Life. For anyone who survived off of Cliff’s Notes in high school, this handbook is for you! Among the simplified explanations for Lutheran liturgy and why Lutherans think the way they do, there is a thought-provoking section on Martin Luther’s Theology of the Cross.
Throughout the season of Lent, we are constantly reminded of the extreme sacrifice that Jesus made for us, his death on the cross. In his book, Erlander writes, “We [must] accept [the] reality that we humans would do almost anything to avoid, to ignore, to escape, to evade. That reality is this: We are called to die in order to live.” We are called to die in order to live. Luther’s Theology of the Cross, calls us to do just that.
I don’t know about you, but this is not an easy concept for me. How do I let go of myself, how do I die, so that I may give myself completely to God? A concept I struggled with all throughout seminary, Erlander makes very clear. Luther is calling us to drown our sins and self and be renewed in the Holy Spirit. He calls us to be renewed in our Baptism each and every day. My favorite part of Luther’s theology is that we meet God where he chooses to find us, in our sorrow, our pain, and our weakness.
While serving in Kenya, I’ve been reminded time and time again that I do not call the shots. Whatever happens, whatever I experience, whomever I meet, is not of my own doing. God’s plans are so much bigger (and wiser) than my own. Meet God wherever he chooses to find us… This year, I am constantly aware, and often reminded, of my fears and weaknesses. How refreshing to remember that it is only through these fears and weaknesses, only through my letting go of myself, that I may die in self and be renewed in the Holy Spirit. While living in Gatundu, I have learned to put my absolute trust in God.
As a community and as a country, we have endured numerous hardships and heartaches in the past seven months that I have lived here. But even amidst all of the heartache, I still hear (and am reminded) daily that, God is good, all the time. All the time, God is good. He is always watching over us. The faith of the Kenyan people continue to shine brightly each and everyday. It is only through giving ourselves completely to God that we may truly live. I am very fortunate to have been able to witness Luther’s Theology of the Cross lived out daily in my community.
Kiswahili lesson:
Nimechoka: I am tired Nimeshukuru: I am thankful
Nahisi njaa: I am hungry Nimeokoka: I am saved
Nimeshiba: I am full/satisfied
Prayer Requests:
1. For the outbreak of cholera in the camps for Internally Displaced People (IDPs) from the election violence.
2. For the continued effort on the sides of President Kibaki and Prime Minister Odinga to honor the coalition government agreement mediated by Kofi Annan and his team.
3. For peace, truth and justice in Zimbabwe, in regards to the presidential elections that some fear may be following in Kenya’s footsteps
Thank you all for your continued support.
Peace be with you,
Sarah
Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it.” Matthew 16:24-25
Saturday, March 1, 2008
February Newsletter - Sarah in Kenya
February 2008
Most Christian churches are currently in the season of Lent, a time of self reflection, self examination, and repentance prior to Easter. It is known as a quiet, solemn season in the church. Churches here in Kenya are also in the midst of Lent, but with a much more real and tangible air of solemness. In the wake of the post election crisis many churches of various denominations have been evaluating their role in the countries recent events.
For the past few weeks I have been attending a local Methodist church located just down the road from my house. One Sunday the minister who was preaching talked extensively about the church’s role in the past two to three months. Many churches of all denominations seemed to be in silent shock during the first few weeks after elections. The Methodist minister said that during the violence churches were followers and didn’t emerge as the leaders of peace they should have been. He criticized their silent compliance and said that churches in Kenya needed to repent and to pray for God’s forgiveness. Individuals need to rebuild loving relationships not based on tribal lines, but on the basis that they are Kenyans. He went even further to say that it was also important to build loving relationships with all people because the church is a global community. Being brothers in Christ allows someone to feel at home in any church in any country.
His sermon reminded me of my orientation in Chicago prior to arriving in Kenya last August. During orientation we had discussed the idea of a global community and how part of being a missionary was forming loving relationships with other members of that global community. God’s plan for me, you, and every other Christian revolves around community and relationships with other people. Jus as the Kenyan churches are examining their need for God’s forgiveness, and many Christians in America are re-evaluating their relationships with God during Lent, I have been reflecting on the relationships I have formed here.
One of my most cherished relationships is with a coworker named Julius. Julius organizes and completes many of the odd jobs around the Nairobi Safari Walk from replacing light bulbs to fixing water fountains to setting up a sprinkler system. He eagerly greets me every time he sees me throughout the day, just as many of the other guys do, with a big smile and warm handshake. He has chosen however to take our friendship even farther by calling me his “beloved sister.” At first the other workers would laugh at us, saying that we could only be brother and sister in Christ but not in blood because he’s black and I’m white. Julius and I never relented, but continued to insist on our blood relation to each other. Now most of the workers refer to us as siblings. Sometimes when one of the others are looking for Julius will say to me, “Sarah where is your brother?” as if it is the most natural thing and it always makes me smile. To feel so completely accepted to the point of almost unquestioned “blood relation” is indescribable. It is the self reflection and quiet time with God during Lent that has allowed me to see how intertwined I have become in the everyday life at the Nairobi Safari Walk and Animal Orphanage. Just as the Methodist church is urging Kenyan to rebuild relationships with each other I’m finding new levels of connectedness within my relationships, and all of these relationships together are being used by God as well as contributing to the global community.
Most Christian churches are currently in the season of Lent, a time of self reflection, self examination, and repentance prior to Easter. It is known as a quiet, solemn season in the church. Churches here in Kenya are also in the midst of Lent, but with a much more real and tangible air of solemness. In the wake of the post election crisis many churches of various denominations have been evaluating their role in the countries recent events.
For the past few weeks I have been attending a local Methodist church located just down the road from my house. One Sunday the minister who was preaching talked extensively about the church’s role in the past two to three months. Many churches of all denominations seemed to be in silent shock during the first few weeks after elections. The Methodist minister said that during the violence churches were followers and didn’t emerge as the leaders of peace they should have been. He criticized their silent compliance and said that churches in Kenya needed to repent and to pray for God’s forgiveness. Individuals need to rebuild loving relationships not based on tribal lines, but on the basis that they are Kenyans. He went even further to say that it was also important to build loving relationships with all people because the church is a global community. Being brothers in Christ allows someone to feel at home in any church in any country.
His sermon reminded me of my orientation in Chicago prior to arriving in Kenya last August. During orientation we had discussed the idea of a global community and how part of being a missionary was forming loving relationships with other members of that global community. God’s plan for me, you, and every other Christian revolves around community and relationships with other people. Jus as the Kenyan churches are examining their need for God’s forgiveness, and many Christians in America are re-evaluating their relationships with God during Lent, I have been reflecting on the relationships I have formed here.
One of my most cherished relationships is with a coworker named Julius. Julius organizes and completes many of the odd jobs around the Nairobi Safari Walk from replacing light bulbs to fixing water fountains to setting up a sprinkler system. He eagerly greets me every time he sees me throughout the day, just as many of the other guys do, with a big smile and warm handshake. He has chosen however to take our friendship even farther by calling me his “beloved sister.” At first the other workers would laugh at us, saying that we could only be brother and sister in Christ but not in blood because he’s black and I’m white. Julius and I never relented, but continued to insist on our blood relation to each other. Now most of the workers refer to us as siblings. Sometimes when one of the others are looking for Julius will say to me, “Sarah where is your brother?” as if it is the most natural thing and it always makes me smile. To feel so completely accepted to the point of almost unquestioned “blood relation” is indescribable. It is the self reflection and quiet time with God during Lent that has allowed me to see how intertwined I have become in the everyday life at the Nairobi Safari Walk and Animal Orphanage. Just as the Methodist church is urging Kenyan to rebuild relationships with each other I’m finding new levels of connectedness within my relationships, and all of these relationships together are being used by God as well as contributing to the global community.
January Newsletter - Sarah in Kenya
January 2008
The tension and violence that has rocked Kenya during the last month has left major scars throughout the country. Many have lost lives, homes, family members, friends, businesses, and livelihoods. Schools have been unable to open and the economy has lost billions of shillings.
Some of my friends at work have shared their stories and opinions on the current crisis with me. When they talk it is easy to see the desperation and despair in their faces and to hear it in their voice. A common phrase has been “is this our Kenya?” The confusion expressed in that statement is not uncommon. The pain Kenyans are feeling for their country is obvious in members of all tribes.
However what has impressed and impacted me the most throughout all this is the faithfulness and trust in God most Kenyans express. While crisis and tragedy cause many Americans to question where God is, Kenyans don’t. They frequently comment on how even though things maybe bad God is with them and with the country. They know and truly believe that God will not forget them during all of this. January 6 was declared a national day of prayers for peace. Churches all over the country focused on praying for an end to the violence and a peaceful resolution as well as for the safety and health of the displaced people. All of the major television networks showed a prayer special where members from all faith communities prayed for the country and its people to find peace and security.
Although Kenya is in the midst of possibly its most trying time the unwavering faith of the people is truly inspiring. Kenyans are certain of God’s love for them and that He will save them and their country. It is a blessing to be surrounded by such faithful people.
“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end.”
Lamentations 3:22
The tension and violence that has rocked Kenya during the last month has left major scars throughout the country. Many have lost lives, homes, family members, friends, businesses, and livelihoods. Schools have been unable to open and the economy has lost billions of shillings.
Some of my friends at work have shared their stories and opinions on the current crisis with me. When they talk it is easy to see the desperation and despair in their faces and to hear it in their voice. A common phrase has been “is this our Kenya?” The confusion expressed in that statement is not uncommon. The pain Kenyans are feeling for their country is obvious in members of all tribes.
However what has impressed and impacted me the most throughout all this is the faithfulness and trust in God most Kenyans express. While crisis and tragedy cause many Americans to question where God is, Kenyans don’t. They frequently comment on how even though things maybe bad God is with them and with the country. They know and truly believe that God will not forget them during all of this. January 6 was declared a national day of prayers for peace. Churches all over the country focused on praying for an end to the violence and a peaceful resolution as well as for the safety and health of the displaced people. All of the major television networks showed a prayer special where members from all faith communities prayed for the country and its people to find peace and security.
Although Kenya is in the midst of possibly its most trying time the unwavering faith of the people is truly inspiring. Kenyans are certain of God’s love for them and that He will save them and their country. It is a blessing to be surrounded by such faithful people.
“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end.”
Lamentations 3:22
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
January 2008 Newsletter from Gatundu, Kenya - Sarah
January 2008 Newsletter: Update from Gatundu, Kenya
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.
Matthew 5: 9
Love your neighbor as yourself.
Matthew 19:19
Happy New Year! I am writing this newsletter from my home in Gatundu where I have only been for two weeks since the post-election violence left me stranded in Nairobi. From the CNN broadcasts on the local morning television channels, violence and chaos in Kenya seem to be in the forefront everyday. Luckily, the community in which I live is in the central province and thus our school opened only one week late. Unfortunately, there are hundreds of schools (including Universities) that have yet to open because of the chaos in the country. I have a few transfer students in my classes that have been displaced and are unable to return to their homes and schools.
Apart from the endless discussions of politics, Icaciri Secondary School appears to be running as usual. I am currently teaching all of our Form 2 (10th gr) English classes and will most likely teach a Form 1 (9th gr) class once they begin in mid-February. This past week, we played Idiom Pictionary and held an official debate on whether it is better to live in the urban or rural areas. The students are progressing nicely and it's nice to have the same students that I had last term when they were Form 1s. The only downside to teaching English is that I am very much aware of my grammar in this newsletter and I am terrified that I will make a dumb mistake!
Since the controversial Presidential elections took place on December 27, 2007, over 800 people have been killed, most of whom by the neighbors they have lived peacefully with for generations. In a country that has been known to take care of refugees from neighboring warring countries, over 300,000 people have been displaced and have become refugees in their own country. It is heartbreaking to hear and see the violence inflicted upon people by their neighbors.
As I watched the international headlines race across the bottom of a nightly newscast, I was reminded of the privilege I used to have living in the U.S. Although there have always been violence and atrocities occurring across the world, I could turn off the television or change the channel to escape the chaos. Today I'm in the midst of it. I cannot simply ignore what is going on because it causes stress, anxiety or even anger. Even though I am physically safe in my community, I constantly hear of my friends and their families being stranded in several parts of the country, and even that a good friend of mine lost his cousin in post-election violence.
I continue to have privilege while I am here. I have plenty of food and the option to hire a private car if I am weary of public transit. I have the privilege to be evacuated if the country becomes too unstable. There are hundreds of thousands, possibly even millions, of Kenyans who do not have these luxuries. People continue to live in fear and I wonder what it will take to bring this historically peaceful country back together.
How many of you vote whenever you have the chance? Kenya is a democratic country with democratic processes, yet all sides of the political leaders have stated that the electoral process was flawed. How many of us in America take our right to vote for granted? How many people do not vote because they are too lazy to fill out voter registration cards, travel (most likely drive) to a polling station, and wait in an organized line for an hour? I spent Election Day in a rural Eastern town and witnessed the members of the community walk for miles to vote and then stand in the scorching sun for hours. It is our right and privilege as Americans to vote and it is something that we should take advantage of because many people around the world do not have that right.
I am humbled by the strength, conviction and faith of the Kenyan people. Even during this time of extreme heartache, people continue to fight for change. People continue to hope for a better future.
The Kiswahili lesson this month will be brief:
Tudumishe amani: Grant us peace
Prayer Requests: The volunteers and I are traveling to Tanzania tomorrow for a mid-term retreat. Please pray for a safe journey and relaxing week. Please continue to pray for the Kenyan people and for peace in this country.
Peace be with you,
Sarah
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 14: 27
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.
Matthew 5: 9
Love your neighbor as yourself.
Matthew 19:19
Happy New Year! I am writing this newsletter from my home in Gatundu where I have only been for two weeks since the post-election violence left me stranded in Nairobi. From the CNN broadcasts on the local morning television channels, violence and chaos in Kenya seem to be in the forefront everyday. Luckily, the community in which I live is in the central province and thus our school opened only one week late. Unfortunately, there are hundreds of schools (including Universities) that have yet to open because of the chaos in the country. I have a few transfer students in my classes that have been displaced and are unable to return to their homes and schools.
Apart from the endless discussions of politics, Icaciri Secondary School appears to be running as usual. I am currently teaching all of our Form 2 (10th gr) English classes and will most likely teach a Form 1 (9th gr) class once they begin in mid-February. This past week, we played Idiom Pictionary and held an official debate on whether it is better to live in the urban or rural areas. The students are progressing nicely and it's nice to have the same students that I had last term when they were Form 1s. The only downside to teaching English is that I am very much aware of my grammar in this newsletter and I am terrified that I will make a dumb mistake!
Since the controversial Presidential elections took place on December 27, 2007, over 800 people have been killed, most of whom by the neighbors they have lived peacefully with for generations. In a country that has been known to take care of refugees from neighboring warring countries, over 300,000 people have been displaced and have become refugees in their own country. It is heartbreaking to hear and see the violence inflicted upon people by their neighbors.
As I watched the international headlines race across the bottom of a nightly newscast, I was reminded of the privilege I used to have living in the U.S. Although there have always been violence and atrocities occurring across the world, I could turn off the television or change the channel to escape the chaos. Today I'm in the midst of it. I cannot simply ignore what is going on because it causes stress, anxiety or even anger. Even though I am physically safe in my community, I constantly hear of my friends and their families being stranded in several parts of the country, and even that a good friend of mine lost his cousin in post-election violence.
I continue to have privilege while I am here. I have plenty of food and the option to hire a private car if I am weary of public transit. I have the privilege to be evacuated if the country becomes too unstable. There are hundreds of thousands, possibly even millions, of Kenyans who do not have these luxuries. People continue to live in fear and I wonder what it will take to bring this historically peaceful country back together.
How many of you vote whenever you have the chance? Kenya is a democratic country with democratic processes, yet all sides of the political leaders have stated that the electoral process was flawed. How many of us in America take our right to vote for granted? How many people do not vote because they are too lazy to fill out voter registration cards, travel (most likely drive) to a polling station, and wait in an organized line for an hour? I spent Election Day in a rural Eastern town and witnessed the members of the community walk for miles to vote and then stand in the scorching sun for hours. It is our right and privilege as Americans to vote and it is something that we should take advantage of because many people around the world do not have that right.
I am humbled by the strength, conviction and faith of the Kenyan people. Even during this time of extreme heartache, people continue to fight for change. People continue to hope for a better future.
The Kiswahili lesson this month will be brief:
Tudumishe amani: Grant us peace
Prayer Requests: The volunteers and I are traveling to Tanzania tomorrow for a mid-term retreat. Please pray for a safe journey and relaxing week. Please continue to pray for the Kenyan people and for peace in this country.
Peace be with you,
Sarah
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 14: 27
Monday, December 17, 2007
Merry Christmas! Update from Gatundu, Kenya - Sarah L.
November-December Newsletter: Update from Gatundu, Kenya
God is good. All the time.
All the time. God is good.
Wow. It's already Christmas time and as always, I am very late in
sending an update. When I last wrote, I had not even begun teaching at
Icaciri Secondary School! Currently, the school is on "holiday" for 5
weeks until we begin a new school year in January. Next term I will
continue to teach Form 1 and 2 (9th and 10th grade) English.
I definitely have a newfound appreciation for teachers. It is a lot of
work! I thoroughly enjoyed myself, however. What you may notice about
me when I return is I now enunciate like nobody's business. =) What is
typically pronounced as "I don know" in America, is now, "I don-t
know." The "t" has it's own syllable! Last term, I had about 40
students in each of my Form 1 and Form 2 classes. I will continue with
the same Form 1 class as they are now Form 2s, and I will have the new
Form 1s fresh from primary school. I'm excited to go back to Gatundu
and get started with the new year.
As I wrote in my last newsletter, I "competed" in the Nairobi
International Marathon's 10k race. I finished and even ran across the
finish line. For those of you who know me, I don't run unless I'm
being chased. =) I also attended a Kikuyu wedding of the woman who
sells me my weekly vegetables in the Gatundu market. Unlike the
35-minute wedding ceremonies in the U.S., this service was over four
hours long. The service even included a "talent show" of sorts, when
all of the guests were invited to come up to the front and perform for
the couple. Unfortunately, my Kikuyu has not improved beyond greetings
and counting to ten, so I politely clapped in the congregation. =)
However, I have improved my bargaining skills at the market. Since the
general thought is that all Whites are rich, they usually ask for a
ridiculously high price for their merchandise. Of course, if it had
been me, I would have done the same thing. This weekend, I found a
soapstone sculpture at the market (found only is the Kisii area of
Kenya) and they asked for 2,100 Kenyan shillings. 2,100 Ksh is
approximately $35 USD. After many moons of bargaining, I finally
bought it for 200 Ksh ($3.35 USD)! I was so excited until my host
mother told me it was probably only worth 100 Ksh. *sigh* I tried.
As the Christmas season approaches, I have tried to get myself into
the Christmas mood. It has proven to be much more difficult that I had
anticipated with the lack of snow in Kenya. The weather resembles July
in Minnesota (minus the horrendous humidity), so I have to walk 45
minutes to the nearest mall in Nairobi just to see the Christmas
decorations! There is also a lack of lefse and lutefisk (surprising,
right!?) so I'm trying to find a carbohydrate and smelly fish
substitute. =) This will only be the second time I will be away from
MN for Christmas (the first time was the Bangladesh mission trip in
1998), but I am excited to share the holiday with my friends and
family here in Kenya.
The Kiswahili lesson this month includes phrases I hear often:
*Sikukuu njema: Merry Christmas
*Bwana asifiwe: Praise the Lord
*Mungu ni mwema. Wakati wote: God is good. All the time. (This is a
call a response that is said before most people begin speaking at
school functions.)
Call: God is Good.
Response: All the time.
Call: All the time.
Response: God is Good.
Prayer Requests: Kenyan Presidential elections take place on December
27th. Please pray for clarity, honesty and peace.
God Bless you all in this Christmas season,
Sarah
God is good. All the time.
All the time. God is good.
Wow. It's already Christmas time and as always, I am very late in
sending an update. When I last wrote, I had not even begun teaching at
Icaciri Secondary School! Currently, the school is on "holiday" for 5
weeks until we begin a new school year in January. Next term I will
continue to teach Form 1 and 2 (9th and 10th grade) English.
I definitely have a newfound appreciation for teachers. It is a lot of
work! I thoroughly enjoyed myself, however. What you may notice about
me when I return is I now enunciate like nobody's business. =) What is
typically pronounced as "I don know" in America, is now, "I don-t
know." The "t" has it's own syllable! Last term, I had about 40
students in each of my Form 1 and Form 2 classes. I will continue with
the same Form 1 class as they are now Form 2s, and I will have the new
Form 1s fresh from primary school. I'm excited to go back to Gatundu
and get started with the new year.
As I wrote in my last newsletter, I "competed" in the Nairobi
International Marathon's 10k race. I finished and even ran across the
finish line. For those of you who know me, I don't run unless I'm
being chased. =) I also attended a Kikuyu wedding of the woman who
sells me my weekly vegetables in the Gatundu market. Unlike the
35-minute wedding ceremonies in the U.S., this service was over four
hours long. The service even included a "talent show" of sorts, when
all of the guests were invited to come up to the front and perform for
the couple. Unfortunately, my Kikuyu has not improved beyond greetings
and counting to ten, so I politely clapped in the congregation. =)
However, I have improved my bargaining skills at the market. Since the
general thought is that all Whites are rich, they usually ask for a
ridiculously high price for their merchandise. Of course, if it had
been me, I would have done the same thing. This weekend, I found a
soapstone sculpture at the market (found only is the Kisii area of
Kenya) and they asked for 2,100 Kenyan shillings. 2,100 Ksh is
approximately $35 USD. After many moons of bargaining, I finally
bought it for 200 Ksh ($3.35 USD)! I was so excited until my host
mother told me it was probably only worth 100 Ksh. *sigh* I tried.
As the Christmas season approaches, I have tried to get myself into
the Christmas mood. It has proven to be much more difficult that I had
anticipated with the lack of snow in Kenya. The weather resembles July
in Minnesota (minus the horrendous humidity), so I have to walk 45
minutes to the nearest mall in Nairobi just to see the Christmas
decorations! There is also a lack of lefse and lutefisk (surprising,
right!?) so I'm trying to find a carbohydrate and smelly fish
substitute. =) This will only be the second time I will be away from
MN for Christmas (the first time was the Bangladesh mission trip in
1998), but I am excited to share the holiday with my friends and
family here in Kenya.
The Kiswahili lesson this month includes phrases I hear often:
*Sikukuu njema: Merry Christmas
*Bwana asifiwe: Praise the Lord
*Mungu ni mwema. Wakati wote: God is good. All the time. (This is a
call a response that is said before most people begin speaking at
school functions.)
Call: God is Good.
Response: All the time.
Call: All the time.
Response: God is Good.
Prayer Requests: Kenyan Presidential elections take place on December
27th. Please pray for clarity, honesty and peace.
God Bless you all in this Christmas season,
Sarah
Saturday, November 17, 2007
October Newsletter - Sarah W. in Kenya
October 2007
This month all of the Young Adults in Global Mission were asked to consider the word “missionary” and how we are encountering its meaning in our various placements and contexts so far. I have found that often times it is the little things that happen during the day that show me how far I have come in the past two months. Finding myself understanding bits and pieces of conversations in Kiswahili show me that I am slowly learning, while also reminding me I have a long way to go.
Being a missionary also means I’m finding delight in what seem like simple interactions with people. One of my coworkers, Patrick, who barely talked to me the first few weeks was having tea and bread in the office one day when I walked in after finishing cleaning. I sat down and after several minutes of silence I was about to stand up and leave when he asked me if I like tea. When I said yes he replied that he was going to get me a cup and immediately stood up and left. He returned with a cup of tea and he insisted that I share the bread he had brought with him as well. We had a conversation for the first time and I discovered what a wealth of information he has. He literately grew up at the animal orphanage because his father worked there. Patrick has seen every animal now there come in as an abandoned baby or injured youngster. Since that day our relationship has become much more comfortable and familiar. We easily talk and joke with each other and often times he asks me to clean with him in the mornings. That day has also led to an increase in his trust level towards me. Now he has no hesitation in asking me to go somewhere by myself to clean or to take the young cheetahs outside to get some fresh air on my own.
Another simple interaction that has led to building stronger relationships is cooking every evening with the house keeper Marcy. Marcy and I always got along well from the beginning but our time spent together in the kitchen has helped us to get to know each other even better. I spend my evenings helping her peel potatoes and carrots, roll chipati, shell peas, or sometimes just sitting and watching her cook. The entire time we talk and share our experiences. She also likes to help me with Kiswahili and is determined to teach me how to cook “real food.”
Being a missionary is about building relationships with the people around me. It is about noticing small things that happen everyday that reassure me that I’m on the right track. Being a missionary means finding joy and finding God in even the simplest actions.
This month all of the Young Adults in Global Mission were asked to consider the word “missionary” and how we are encountering its meaning in our various placements and contexts so far. I have found that often times it is the little things that happen during the day that show me how far I have come in the past two months. Finding myself understanding bits and pieces of conversations in Kiswahili show me that I am slowly learning, while also reminding me I have a long way to go.
Being a missionary also means I’m finding delight in what seem like simple interactions with people. One of my coworkers, Patrick, who barely talked to me the first few weeks was having tea and bread in the office one day when I walked in after finishing cleaning. I sat down and after several minutes of silence I was about to stand up and leave when he asked me if I like tea. When I said yes he replied that he was going to get me a cup and immediately stood up and left. He returned with a cup of tea and he insisted that I share the bread he had brought with him as well. We had a conversation for the first time and I discovered what a wealth of information he has. He literately grew up at the animal orphanage because his father worked there. Patrick has seen every animal now there come in as an abandoned baby or injured youngster. Since that day our relationship has become much more comfortable and familiar. We easily talk and joke with each other and often times he asks me to clean with him in the mornings. That day has also led to an increase in his trust level towards me. Now he has no hesitation in asking me to go somewhere by myself to clean or to take the young cheetahs outside to get some fresh air on my own.
Another simple interaction that has led to building stronger relationships is cooking every evening with the house keeper Marcy. Marcy and I always got along well from the beginning but our time spent together in the kitchen has helped us to get to know each other even better. I spend my evenings helping her peel potatoes and carrots, roll chipati, shell peas, or sometimes just sitting and watching her cook. The entire time we talk and share our experiences. She also likes to help me with Kiswahili and is determined to teach me how to cook “real food.”
Being a missionary is about building relationships with the people around me. It is about noticing small things that happen everyday that reassure me that I’m on the right track. Being a missionary means finding joy and finding God in even the simplest actions.
Friday, October 26, 2007
October Newsletter-Update from Gatundu, Kenya - Sarah L.
October Newsletter
Habari!
Since my last newsletter was so late, I decided to send a short one for October. Things are going very well in Gatundu at Icaciri Secondary. I am fully immersed in maize and beans, Kikuyu language lunch conversations and handball (not to be confused with the handball of America). I will officially begin teaching English on Monday. The Form 4 (senior) students have begun their Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams which has been a stressful time for everyone involved. The exams last until mid-November and are taken everyday, all day long. The exams are escorted by police to the school every day and each student takes the same exam. The KCSE determines if the student will go to college, which college, and even which major they qualify for. While C+ is a passing grade, I have heard that the University of Nairobi only accepts students who receive a B+ or above! No wonder the students are nervous.
This month, we were asked to reflect upon what "missionary" means in our context. The first thing that came to mind was "discount." Of course this is not the most important meaning of the word, but it has allowed me to talk my way out of being charged "non-resident" (or white) rates. Non-resident rates are sometimes 4x as expensive as resident or citizen rates and they are usually paid in U.S. dollars. I have not yet received my official resident card and therefore cannot prove that I live here. Sometimes by explaining that I am a "volunteer" or "missionary" I have been able to pay less. =)
But in all seriousness, "missionary" does not have the same connotations here as it does back home. Before I came, I found myself saying, "I'm going to be a missionary, but it's not what you think." I did not want people to think that I was going to Kenya to convert people or to make them think the way I do. I was coming to learn. For some reason, I felt as though I had to explain exactly what "missionary" meant to me and the Young Adult in Global Mission (YAGM) program.
Although most people in Gatundu do not know I'm a missionary, they know I've come to serve and be involved in their community. Many even know me as "Wanjiru" and not as Sarah. They know I am volunteering my time to be with them. They know that I really care about them and what goes on in our tiny village. I think that is what is important.
I don't need to call myself a "missionary" to be one.
If anything, I am humbled by the conviction of my students in regards to their faith. They pray openly, lead devotions in front of the 400+ student body and they even asked me on the first day if I was "saved." It is important to them. Faith is not only personal, but it affects the entire community here. They yearn for others to know and share in their passion for Christ. I have alot to learn from them.
I think that God is calling me to be a witness. Not a witness to the people of Gatundu, but a witness of the people of Gatundu. The community here truly love and serve God in everything that they do. What an amazing thing to witness.
*****
Now, as promised, I would like to expand your Kiswahili vocabulary. This month, the topic is Everyday Conversation. I've realized that people are impressed even if I add Kiswahili words into my English. People here mix languages all of the time, so I'm taking advantage of it!
*Sawa./Sawa?: ok/ok? People use this all of the time. It is multipurpose. It can mean 'Do you understand?' 'Are you following?' 'What do you think?' and even 'Yes, I wholeheartedly agree with you.' It's a great little word.
*Kabisa: Absolutely or entirely. This is an exaggeration word. Usually it is said several times in a row, 'kabisa, kabisa, kabisa!'
*Ninii: ...or something. I am glad Kiswahili has a word for this. People say it as much as teenagers say "like" back home. I used to think they were saying "nini" which is "what", but the stress is on a different syllable. I like this word.
*kuja hapa: come here. I've learned that while this is entirely acceptable in Kenya, never, EVER, say this in Tanzania. It means the same thing, but it has an aggressive and rude connotation in Tanzania. I find myself saying this often, mostly because it's easy to remember. =)
*****
Lastly, a few prayer requests.
1. Please pray for the Form 4 students at Icaciri Secondary and throughout Kenya as they continue their exams.
2. I am walking in the Nairobi International Marathon on Sunday (the 10K, not the marathon).=) 15,000 people are coming from 52 countries to participate. Please pray for cool weather and for the health of the participants. All of the money raised goes to provide eye care in Kenya to minimize blindness from preventable diseases.
3. Continued prayers for the political leaders in Kenya. Presidential elections will most likely take place before Christmas. Please pray for strength, justice and peace.
Thank you for your continued prayers and support! Blessings,
Sarah
Habari!
Since my last newsletter was so late, I decided to send a short one for October. Things are going very well in Gatundu at Icaciri Secondary. I am fully immersed in maize and beans, Kikuyu language lunch conversations and handball (not to be confused with the handball of America). I will officially begin teaching English on Monday. The Form 4 (senior) students have begun their Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams which has been a stressful time for everyone involved. The exams last until mid-November and are taken everyday, all day long. The exams are escorted by police to the school every day and each student takes the same exam. The KCSE determines if the student will go to college, which college, and even which major they qualify for. While C+ is a passing grade, I have heard that the University of Nairobi only accepts students who receive a B+ or above! No wonder the students are nervous.
This month, we were asked to reflect upon what "missionary" means in our context. The first thing that came to mind was "discount." Of course this is not the most important meaning of the word, but it has allowed me to talk my way out of being charged "non-resident" (or white) rates. Non-resident rates are sometimes 4x as expensive as resident or citizen rates and they are usually paid in U.S. dollars. I have not yet received my official resident card and therefore cannot prove that I live here. Sometimes by explaining that I am a "volunteer" or "missionary" I have been able to pay less. =)
But in all seriousness, "missionary" does not have the same connotations here as it does back home. Before I came, I found myself saying, "I'm going to be a missionary, but it's not what you think." I did not want people to think that I was going to Kenya to convert people or to make them think the way I do. I was coming to learn. For some reason, I felt as though I had to explain exactly what "missionary" meant to me and the Young Adult in Global Mission (YAGM) program.
Although most people in Gatundu do not know I'm a missionary, they know I've come to serve and be involved in their community. Many even know me as "Wanjiru" and not as Sarah. They know I am volunteering my time to be with them. They know that I really care about them and what goes on in our tiny village. I think that is what is important.
I don't need to call myself a "missionary" to be one.
If anything, I am humbled by the conviction of my students in regards to their faith. They pray openly, lead devotions in front of the 400+ student body and they even asked me on the first day if I was "saved." It is important to them. Faith is not only personal, but it affects the entire community here. They yearn for others to know and share in their passion for Christ. I have alot to learn from them.
I think that God is calling me to be a witness. Not a witness to the people of Gatundu, but a witness of the people of Gatundu. The community here truly love and serve God in everything that they do. What an amazing thing to witness.
*****
Now, as promised, I would like to expand your Kiswahili vocabulary. This month, the topic is Everyday Conversation. I've realized that people are impressed even if I add Kiswahili words into my English. People here mix languages all of the time, so I'm taking advantage of it!
*Sawa./Sawa?: ok/ok? People use this all of the time. It is multipurpose. It can mean 'Do you understand?' 'Are you following?' 'What do you think?' and even 'Yes, I wholeheartedly agree with you.' It's a great little word.
*Kabisa: Absolutely or entirely. This is an exaggeration word. Usually it is said several times in a row, 'kabisa, kabisa, kabisa!'
*Ninii: ...or something. I am glad Kiswahili has a word for this. People say it as much as teenagers say "like" back home. I used to think they were saying "nini" which is "what", but the stress is on a different syllable. I like this word.
*kuja hapa: come here. I've learned that while this is entirely acceptable in Kenya, never, EVER, say this in Tanzania. It means the same thing, but it has an aggressive and rude connotation in Tanzania. I find myself saying this often, mostly because it's easy to remember. =)
*****
Lastly, a few prayer requests.
1. Please pray for the Form 4 students at Icaciri Secondary and throughout Kenya as they continue their exams.
2. I am walking in the Nairobi International Marathon on Sunday (the 10K, not the marathon).=) 15,000 people are coming from 52 countries to participate. Please pray for cool weather and for the health of the participants. All of the money raised goes to provide eye care in Kenya to minimize blindness from preventable diseases.
3. Continued prayers for the political leaders in Kenya. Presidential elections will most likely take place before Christmas. Please pray for strength, justice and peace.
Thank you for your continued prayers and support! Blessings,
Sarah
Sunday, October 14, 2007
September Newsletter - Sarah L. in Kenya
September 2007 Newsletter
"Every Christian should preach, and if necessary, use words." –St.
Francis of Assisi
Kenyan Christians embody this notion. Their love for Christ is shown
constantly through gracious forms of hospitality and genuine love for
one another. Upon arriving in Kenya, a leader of the Presbyterian
Church of East Africa (PCEA) stated, "We are not just Kenyans. We are
your brothers and sisters." And they truly believe it. God is such a
large part of their identity. It is not uncommon for people to
introduce themselves followed with "and I am a child of God," or "and
I am saved." It is not so much what God does, but what God is to their
identity. They become Christians because they see life in it. The same
leader of the PCEA hoped that "Kenya's spiritual riches would scream
louder than their economic poverty." The presence of the Holy Spirit
cannot be ignored in this place.
I would like to apologize for the tardiness of this newsletter. I
realize that it is no longer September, but I wanted to send the most
complete update as possible. I have been in Kenya for a month and a
half already! I cannot believe how quickly time has gone by. I spent
the first few weeks in orientation with the other four volunteers,
learning about the political, economic and religious climates in Kenya
as well as attempting to learn Swahili. "Attempting" is the key word,
here. In mid-September, I began my placement in Eastlands, Nairobi but
due to various circumstances, was moved to another placement at the
end of September.
I have finally settled into my placement in Gatundu, Kenya (one hour
private car ride to Nairobi or 2-4 hour bus ride). =) I have fallen in
love with this place! I am working and living at Icaciri Secondary
School, where I teach English (9th-10th grade) and Physical Education
(9th-11th). I know, you are probably laughing as you imagine me
teaching P.E. It's actually more like supervising recess. =) I do plan
on teaching the joys of flag football (American football) and
kickball. Can you imagine a life without kickball!? I haven't started
teaching English yet. I started teaching Christian Religious Education
(CRE), but due to a sudden loss of a staff member I was asked to
switch disciplines. I am excited because I will not have to prepare as
much for grammar class (I had to teach Marriage from the traditional
African perspective last week…you can imagine how much studying I had
to do before hand!)
We have 400 students (boys and girls) and 180 girls who board at the
school. There are four teachers (including me) who live on campus. The
school is such a positive environment and I am enjoying living with
the students. Gatundu is considered a small town or village. The town
is comprised of the Kikuyu people, who are known for "loving their own
language." This means that my Swahili is not all that helpful.
Although people know Swahili…they rarely speak it. Unfortunately, I
only know how to respond to "how are you" in Kikuyu. Hopefully I will
pick up more soon! Luckily, all classes are taught in English. =)
Gatundu is surrounded by hills and fields and fields of banana trees.
It's quite beautiful here! The air is clean and fresh which is a nice
change from the big city. The school is a one-hour walk down a dirt
road from "downtown" Gatundu. Apparently, this causes a problem during
rainy season when the road is nearly impassible. I will let you know
how this is when it starts raining. =) The town just received
electricity about a month before I came, which is a huge deal for the
community here. It does mean, however, that there is no Internet café
nearby, hence the tardiness of this newsletter. I had to come to
Nairobi to send this letter. =)
Just to give you a taste of how I live here:
*I boil about 3 pots of water in order to have a warm bath. The water
out of the faucets is always quite cold.
*My camping headlamp is always nearby. Because electricity is new
here…the electricity goes out quite often. I already know that I will
be leaving my headlamp behind because it has already been borrowed
quite often. How did they remove the bats from the attic before? =)
*Birds fly freely in the classrooms and I am the only one who seems to notice.
*It takes me hours to wash my laundry by hand. Even young children can
wash their clothes better than me.
*I killed a chicken and prepared it for dinner. I still can't believe
I did it. One of my prouder moments. =)
*I eat githeri, maize (hard corn) and beans, for nearly every lunch
meal with the students/staff.
*I drink tea with milk several times a day. Teatime is incorporated to
school and work schedules.
*I am the only white person in Gatundu and people usually just call me
"Mzungu" (see Swahili lesson at the bottom).
*I am now known as "Sarah Wanjiru." Kikuyus have difficulties with Ls
and Rs…therefore my last name has been scrapped. They have given me a
Kikuyu name instead, "Wanjiru" (pronounced wahn-jee-roh).
Kiswahili is the language most widely spoken in Kenya. I have decided
to include a Swahili language lesson in my monthly newsletter. Good
luck! =)
Pronunciation:
*a= ah, e= aye, i=ee, o=oh, u=oo
*Rs are flipped once…no hard American Rs! If you can't flip your Rs,
say "d" instead. It'll be close enough. =)
Standard Greeting and Response:
Greeting ->Habari? Response ->Mzuri.
Greeting to peers:
Greeting ->Sasa? Response -> Fit.
Karibu: Welcome (NOT pronounced like the popular coffee joint!)
Jina langu ni ____. : My name is ____.
Jina lako ni nani? : What is your name?
Mzungu: White person.
Thank you so much for your prayers and support thus far. I have had a
wonderful time and I am excited to get into a routine at Icicari and
finally learn my way around! Please pray for the people here as we are
nearing Presidential elections in December. May God's peace be with
you!
Sarah
"I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but
accepts men from every nation who fear him and do what is right." Acts
10:34-35
"Every Christian should preach, and if necessary, use words." –St.
Francis of Assisi
Kenyan Christians embody this notion. Their love for Christ is shown
constantly through gracious forms of hospitality and genuine love for
one another. Upon arriving in Kenya, a leader of the Presbyterian
Church of East Africa (PCEA) stated, "We are not just Kenyans. We are
your brothers and sisters." And they truly believe it. God is such a
large part of their identity. It is not uncommon for people to
introduce themselves followed with "and I am a child of God," or "and
I am saved." It is not so much what God does, but what God is to their
identity. They become Christians because they see life in it. The same
leader of the PCEA hoped that "Kenya's spiritual riches would scream
louder than their economic poverty." The presence of the Holy Spirit
cannot be ignored in this place.
I would like to apologize for the tardiness of this newsletter. I
realize that it is no longer September, but I wanted to send the most
complete update as possible. I have been in Kenya for a month and a
half already! I cannot believe how quickly time has gone by. I spent
the first few weeks in orientation with the other four volunteers,
learning about the political, economic and religious climates in Kenya
as well as attempting to learn Swahili. "Attempting" is the key word,
here. In mid-September, I began my placement in Eastlands, Nairobi but
due to various circumstances, was moved to another placement at the
end of September.
I have finally settled into my placement in Gatundu, Kenya (one hour
private car ride to Nairobi or 2-4 hour bus ride). =) I have fallen in
love with this place! I am working and living at Icaciri Secondary
School, where I teach English (9th-10th grade) and Physical Education
(9th-11th). I know, you are probably laughing as you imagine me
teaching P.E. It's actually more like supervising recess. =) I do plan
on teaching the joys of flag football (American football) and
kickball. Can you imagine a life without kickball!? I haven't started
teaching English yet. I started teaching Christian Religious Education
(CRE), but due to a sudden loss of a staff member I was asked to
switch disciplines. I am excited because I will not have to prepare as
much for grammar class (I had to teach Marriage from the traditional
African perspective last week…you can imagine how much studying I had
to do before hand!)
We have 400 students (boys and girls) and 180 girls who board at the
school. There are four teachers (including me) who live on campus. The
school is such a positive environment and I am enjoying living with
the students. Gatundu is considered a small town or village. The town
is comprised of the Kikuyu people, who are known for "loving their own
language." This means that my Swahili is not all that helpful.
Although people know Swahili…they rarely speak it. Unfortunately, I
only know how to respond to "how are you" in Kikuyu. Hopefully I will
pick up more soon! Luckily, all classes are taught in English. =)
Gatundu is surrounded by hills and fields and fields of banana trees.
It's quite beautiful here! The air is clean and fresh which is a nice
change from the big city. The school is a one-hour walk down a dirt
road from "downtown" Gatundu. Apparently, this causes a problem during
rainy season when the road is nearly impassible. I will let you know
how this is when it starts raining. =) The town just received
electricity about a month before I came, which is a huge deal for the
community here. It does mean, however, that there is no Internet café
nearby, hence the tardiness of this newsletter. I had to come to
Nairobi to send this letter. =)
Just to give you a taste of how I live here:
*I boil about 3 pots of water in order to have a warm bath. The water
out of the faucets is always quite cold.
*My camping headlamp is always nearby. Because electricity is new
here…the electricity goes out quite often. I already know that I will
be leaving my headlamp behind because it has already been borrowed
quite often. How did they remove the bats from the attic before? =)
*Birds fly freely in the classrooms and I am the only one who seems to notice.
*It takes me hours to wash my laundry by hand. Even young children can
wash their clothes better than me.
*I killed a chicken and prepared it for dinner. I still can't believe
I did it. One of my prouder moments. =)
*I eat githeri, maize (hard corn) and beans, for nearly every lunch
meal with the students/staff.
*I drink tea with milk several times a day. Teatime is incorporated to
school and work schedules.
*I am the only white person in Gatundu and people usually just call me
"Mzungu" (see Swahili lesson at the bottom).
*I am now known as "Sarah Wanjiru." Kikuyus have difficulties with Ls
and Rs…therefore my last name has been scrapped. They have given me a
Kikuyu name instead, "Wanjiru" (pronounced wahn-jee-roh).
Kiswahili is the language most widely spoken in Kenya. I have decided
to include a Swahili language lesson in my monthly newsletter. Good
luck! =)
Pronunciation:
*a= ah, e= aye, i=ee, o=oh, u=oo
*Rs are flipped once…no hard American Rs! If you can't flip your Rs,
say "d" instead. It'll be close enough. =)
Standard Greeting and Response:
Greeting ->Habari? Response ->Mzuri.
Greeting to peers:
Greeting ->Sasa? Response -> Fit.
Karibu: Welcome (NOT pronounced like the popular coffee joint!)
Jina langu ni ____. : My name is ____.
Jina lako ni nani? : What is your name?
Mzungu: White person.
Thank you so much for your prayers and support thus far. I have had a
wonderful time and I am excited to get into a routine at Icicari and
finally learn my way around! Please pray for the people here as we are
nearing Presidential elections in December. May God's peace be with
you!
Sarah
"I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but
accepts men from every nation who fear him and do what is right." Acts
10:34-35
Friday, October 12, 2007
September Newsletter - Sarah W. in Kenya
September 2007
Ecclesiastes 3:11 “He has made everything suitable for its time; moreover he has put a sense of past and future into their minds, yet they cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end.”
On Sunday September 16 our group of Kenyan Young Adult Volunteers and Young Adults in Global Mission attended worship service at Nairobi Chapel, which is the local equivalent of a “mega church.” The minister who gave the message spent some time discussing Ecclesiastes 3:1-11, which says that for everything there is a time and season. He went on to further conclude that when we listen to God and trust Him everything is done in God’s time and according to His plan.
Since arriving in Kenya I have noticed differences in the concept of time. Downtown Nairobi is fast paced and somewhat over whelming at first. Just like any big city in the U.S. people are hurrying to their destinations down crowded sidewalks and congested streets. Matatus, the public transportation vans, zoom in and out of traffic blaring loud music as the attendants shout prices and destinations out the window to try and get more passengers on board. Business men and women walk at a fast pace and you either have to keep up with the flow or move out of the way. The fast pace of Nairobi contrasts greatly with the quiet and calmer atmosphere of Limuru; where our group of five volunteers spent two weeks during in-country orientation. During orientation we came to realize that time is somewhat of a relative thing. If you are supposed to be somewhere at 10am, arriving at 10:30 does not mean you are late. There is always enough time to stop and greet a friend and have a conversation with them.
I have learned to run on “God’s time” here in Kenya. I don’t stress out about being 10 minutes late because no one else does. And just like the minister at Nairobi Chapel stated, when I follow God’s time table everything works out perfectly. For instance I have started at my placement one week after most of the other volunteers. Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) did not have anyone to train me the week I was scheduled to start, so I was told to return the following week. At first this bothered me, I wanted to start right away like the others, but now that I have started I can see that God planned everything out much better than I could have. I began work at KWS at the same time that several Kenyan college students have started their internships there. I am working with Kenyan peers who are also new to KWS and I feel less awkward because I’m not the only new person. This has also allowed me to start friendships with Kenyans my own age and I’m slowly beginning to feel more a part of them and accepted by them. They are eager to teach me Kiswahili and to help me “become Kenyan.” I am seeing and realizing that God is already at work here and I am becoming slowly intertwined into His plan at my placement site. I have also learned that like Ecclesiastes mentions, I can not fully understand God’s timing or know what to expect. Just the other day three 2-week old cheetah cubs were brought to the orphanage at KWS and I was asked by one of the animal keepers to bottle feed them. The same day one of my new friends and I were asked to ride along with some KWS officers to drive through Nairobi National Park to survey and count rhinos. After such an amazing first week at my placement I don’t know what to expect in the up coming year. When one of my co-workers found out I would be here for an entire year he replied: “Aye ya! You’ll be a Kenyan!” I hope that he is right, because as I begin to see God here and as I try to follow His plan in His time I am realizing that there is no other place I would rather be at this point in my life and at this point in my walk with God than right here in Kenya.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 “He has made everything suitable for its time; moreover he has put a sense of past and future into their minds, yet they cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end.”
On Sunday September 16 our group of Kenyan Young Adult Volunteers and Young Adults in Global Mission attended worship service at Nairobi Chapel, which is the local equivalent of a “mega church.” The minister who gave the message spent some time discussing Ecclesiastes 3:1-11, which says that for everything there is a time and season. He went on to further conclude that when we listen to God and trust Him everything is done in God’s time and according to His plan.
Since arriving in Kenya I have noticed differences in the concept of time. Downtown Nairobi is fast paced and somewhat over whelming at first. Just like any big city in the U.S. people are hurrying to their destinations down crowded sidewalks and congested streets. Matatus, the public transportation vans, zoom in and out of traffic blaring loud music as the attendants shout prices and destinations out the window to try and get more passengers on board. Business men and women walk at a fast pace and you either have to keep up with the flow or move out of the way. The fast pace of Nairobi contrasts greatly with the quiet and calmer atmosphere of Limuru; where our group of five volunteers spent two weeks during in-country orientation. During orientation we came to realize that time is somewhat of a relative thing. If you are supposed to be somewhere at 10am, arriving at 10:30 does not mean you are late. There is always enough time to stop and greet a friend and have a conversation with them.
I have learned to run on “God’s time” here in Kenya. I don’t stress out about being 10 minutes late because no one else does. And just like the minister at Nairobi Chapel stated, when I follow God’s time table everything works out perfectly. For instance I have started at my placement one week after most of the other volunteers. Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) did not have anyone to train me the week I was scheduled to start, so I was told to return the following week. At first this bothered me, I wanted to start right away like the others, but now that I have started I can see that God planned everything out much better than I could have. I began work at KWS at the same time that several Kenyan college students have started their internships there. I am working with Kenyan peers who are also new to KWS and I feel less awkward because I’m not the only new person. This has also allowed me to start friendships with Kenyans my own age and I’m slowly beginning to feel more a part of them and accepted by them. They are eager to teach me Kiswahili and to help me “become Kenyan.” I am seeing and realizing that God is already at work here and I am becoming slowly intertwined into His plan at my placement site. I have also learned that like Ecclesiastes mentions, I can not fully understand God’s timing or know what to expect. Just the other day three 2-week old cheetah cubs were brought to the orphanage at KWS and I was asked by one of the animal keepers to bottle feed them. The same day one of my new friends and I were asked to ride along with some KWS officers to drive through Nairobi National Park to survey and count rhinos. After such an amazing first week at my placement I don’t know what to expect in the up coming year. When one of my co-workers found out I would be here for an entire year he replied: “Aye ya! You’ll be a Kenyan!” I hope that he is right, because as I begin to see God here and as I try to follow His plan in His time I am realizing that there is no other place I would rather be at this point in my life and at this point in my walk with God than right here in Kenya.
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