It was a really full day for us…we went to Mitumba in the morning for our youth Bible study, had to leave there early much to the chagrin of the youth, went to buy a birthday present for Pauline, then went to meet Steven at the matatu stop so he could show us the way to his house. We realized once we started driving down narrow, rough roads that we never would have found it on our own!
Steven and his brother got into our car, and the first thing he said when asked how he was, was, “I’m good. Well not so good, but good.” We weren’t sure what he meant, but then he pointed to his face. The whole right side of his face was bruised, cut up and swollen. He told us that he had gotten beat up on his way home the night before…a group of thieves jumped him and managed to steal his money and flashlight, but Steven fought them off to keep his leatherman tool. Just another reminder of where we live, and the dangers faced by people here everyday. Sobering.
It was wonderful to meet Marcy, Steven’s wife, and also Steven’s mother and sister, along with some nieces and nephews. We spent time visiting, and eating so much food that they had prepared. Being the honoured guests in a Kenyan home will always leave you feeling so incredibly welcomed and unworthy of all the special attention, and will also leave your stomach very, very satisfied!! =)
Pauline was so scared of us, and felt very overwhelmed with all the attention lavished on her! She kept a very close eye on us, and would peek at us from the safety of her mother’s arms. We hope that the next time we see her, she’ll maybe remember us a little and not be so terrified of our white skin!
Marcy helping Pauline blow out the candles.
One thing that really struck me was listening to Steven’s mother pray before we ate our meal. Her voice broke as she thanked God for the food, and prayed for all those who do not have food in this country…the most heartfelt thanks for food that I have possibly ever experienced. A lesson for me to be so much more thankful for the blessing of food, something that I so often just take for granted.
Steven's mom outside of the house.
August 1st also marked the day of the AIM AIR crash. We first heard about it at Steven’s house, but didn’t realize that it was one of our planes until later on that evening.
Like I said, August 1st was a really full day…not just in events but emotionally as well.
As we left Steven and Marcy’s house, Marcy gave me a hug and said “Please come again when we can spend more time together. Please. You are welcome anytime.”
Here in Kenya, friends are not hard to find. It’s just a matter of stepping out of your comfort zone a little and accepting invitations like this one. You are guaranteed to leave feeling like you made a life-long friend. What a privilege.
“And I think that’s what our world is desperately in need of - lovers. People who are building deep, genuine relationships with fellow strugglers along the way and who actually know the faces of the people behind the issues they are concerned with.”
{Shane Claiborne}
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