I’m someone who has three gears: fast, faster, fastest. Slow isn’t in my vocabulary (or it wasn’t until I became a resident of Africa).
Africa has certainly forced me into some new habits. I have rested, written journal entries and watched more movies than ever before. They sure know how to do free time in this part of the world. The past four months have provided plenty of space for reflection and appreciation – appreciation for home and a deeper appreciation for life abroad. Religion, tradition and every day life look so different here. I have loved my time in Africa, but I’m excited for a change of scenery.
It’s week four in Malawi and I will soon be traveling to Asia for all-squad debrief. We are switching continents, switching teams and switching cultures. There is A LOT of change to come this month. I’m ready to shift gears and prepare for a new dynamic. Thanksgiving was unique and Christmas is bound to be another interesting experience.
I kickoff Asia in Vietnam before transitioning to Cambodia, Laos and Thailand. I’m expectant and optimistic for the next chapter of the Race.
HEADS UP: Vietnam is a closed, communist country, which will be a new challenge. Southeast Asia isn’t nearly as accepting of Christianity as Africa has been. My upcoming blogs will be password protected and publicizing ministry will be kept to a minimum. We are to describe our travel as a “cultural exchange with humanitarian efforts,” not a mission trip. Pray for open hearts and safe encounters as we pursue unreached people.
This is a short and sweet check-in for all following along! Pray for my squad as we embrace change, endure long travel days and celebrate, for many of us, our first Christmas away from home.
For fun, here are 10 lessons I learned during my time in Africa.
- A bicycle is a multipurpose tool used very creatively to haul stuff.
- Humans can balance/carry just about anything on their head.
- You really don’t need a stage, microphones or instruments to worship.
- Baby carriers are overrated. (so is breast feeding in private…)
- Forming/maintaining relationships is more valuable than accomplishing tasks.
- You can live a very normal life without hot water or a toilet seat.
- You can get your clothes clean without a washing machine or a dryer.
- Nsima = life. It has a different name in every country, but it is a continental staple. (imagine mashed potatoes except stickier and made with maize)
- Chitenges are the most versatile piece of clothing a woman can own. (They can be used as a skirt, a baby carrier, a blanket, a towel, a sweat rag, a scarf, a table cloth, a head wrap, etc.)
- Genuine friendships can be formed despite language barriers.
