So there have been a few distinct
times that I’ve felt like I was in a movie. Cruising down a half paved road,
lined with dirt and shacks loaded with goods for sale, crowded into a van with
twenty other Africans, a LCD screen showing a rap video from 1995, the
corresponding speakers deafening the passengers with Puff Daddy and Biggie’s
“Hypnotize�. I’m in Africa.
We’re
now in Kisumu. The people here are known for being amiable and agreeable,
unless politics is involved. This politically charged area is home to Kenyan
presidents and Obama’s father. Being on the banks of Lake Victoria, this
fishing town is the third largest city in Kenya. Our contact Pastor Elisha, his
wife Momma Odhoch, the youth from church (Paul, Aldo, Lidia, Julie, and a host
of others) have gone out of their way to make us feel at home and like part of
the family. The biggest adjustment for me has been not following ‘Mzungu’
(white people) time. Most Kenyans don’t wear watches and those that do seem to
be 40-60 minutes behind.
Our
second day here we went to two schools to speak with the youth. They sang us a
few songs (which were awesome) before we shared testimonies and a word. Today
we should find out our schedule for the rest of the month. Splitting our time
between the church, schools, hospitals, and the prison should keep us on the
go. Most of us are tired, some are battling colds, but we are excited to
explore Africa and interact with its people. Our ‘free’ day is Monday; which will be our time to recharge, head to
the internet café, and spend time together as a team.
