since my departure from the States! Time flies when you are having fun and busier than a one armed paper hanger! Sorry, I have to get those sayings in since most of you reading this are English speaking Americans and will understand that kind of talk! I do apologize for not being a frequent blogger as of late. The daylight hours of 7 to 7 have been quite full and I seem to fall in to bed as soon as the sun sets. It is a good tired and I know will ease a bit once the rhythm of life here on this side of the ocean becomes normal again. My little apartment is shaping up nicely now that I have unpacked most of my suitcases from the States as well as the items I had packed up here. There are a few decorative touches to make the space my own but those will come as time allows. After over a year of transit living I have to confess that this task feels very good to me to have complete. I have also been very busy at the school (Joshua School Arusha) getting to know the teachers, studying the curriculum, and getting to know the kids. There is nothing sweeter to walk down the path and hear Mwalimu, Mwalimu, Mwalimu (Teacher, Teacher, Teacher) once again! There is nothing in this world brighter than the smiles of Tanzanian children. My morning is not quite complete without the swarm of hugs that come next and the complete feeling that washes over me. It also has been great fun getting to know all those who fill various roles here at En Gedi (the name of the base.) Everyone has welcomed me with open arms. I feel as though I have lived here much longer than a month. In a good way! My team is filled with those of different nationalities. At times there is confusion by the words or spellings that are used but overall its another small glimpse of the beauty of heaven. The unique display of God's creation and its the striving for Kingdom Culture that unites us. How wonderful it will be when God in His perfection unites every tribe, tongue, and nation in worship for eternity! In my little corner of the world I think it is a wonderful thing so how much more will it be in perfection!
Last weekend I had the joy of being a part of the eighth graduation held here for the Joshua Teacher Training College. There were five who began their work in June of 2012 who now make up over 100 graduates serving in various communities across Tanzania. It was a joyous occasion to celebrate with these five who were appointed to serve, teach, and be agents of transformation. It will be exciting to be a part of more in the future. (You can see pictures below from the day.) One never knows what is needed on the field from day to day. I am proud to say that I was able to put flower arranging skills from my mother to good use! I jumped in and arranged the flowers in front of the podium for the special day! Thanks mom!
Fortunately and Unfortunately I have used my First Aid and Holistic Health Training here this week. I have to admit I was a bit under prepared for some of this here in the first weeks. Cuts to the skin by machetes, rotting teeth, and skin fungal issues unfortunately are all far to common here with much much more. The fortunate part is feeling like I can give basic aid out of love when and where I can. The health care options in this land continue to make me sad. Like I said one never knows what will come across your day. I am not sure who I have to thank for this!! But, I am grateful for my training and the time that I spent last year in my certification in Herbal Remedies.
Once again I am thankful for the financial support that makes it possible for me to be here, for the emails/cards that bring encouragement, and the constant prayers that bear the life giving power to live a life of love within this place. May God be glorified in all that we do!
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| My friend Joanna (teammate) and I |
- Milo is doing much better and his leg is back in tip top shape! He is getting used to our new place and loving all the kids that live around us. Milo is quite popular and has more visitors than I!!
- Continue to pray as I get things in order here as far as home and living. All of this takes a great deal of energy, time, and patience!!
- for continued insight, wisdom, and direction as we empower teachers to be transforming
- may the kids know that they are loved and be given the opportunity to have a love of learning
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