Hello Sweet Friends,
First, I want to say thank you for following along on this journey with me! I have news that I am so honored to share with you.
We arrived in North Africa on… What day is it? Was it on Thursday? I am so happy to say that time is not of the essence here. It’s a strange transition from the fast-paced American way. I’m glad I took a few weeks off of work before I left the USA, or I would be in TOTAL culture shock.
When we first arrived, we encountered a few travel-related setbacks which landed us in a different town than originally planned. The Girls on my team and I prayed and felt indescribable peace throughout the entire situation. We decided to stay where we were for the time being, choosing to rest and get to know the neighborhood.
By our arrival on Thursday night I was pooped. Between the Camino and the travel from Spain to North Africa, rest was elusive. Each night I fell into an alburgue bed, exhausted.
My “quiet time”, too, was suffering. And when I don’t get time to chill – well, let’s just say a “tourist” running on Empty isn’t very loving. You’ve gotta tap into that source of love to be able to pour love back out on others.
On Friday I stayed home – my new temporary home – for the day while the others went out to get supplies and explore. It was a day for just me and my Source. My Source of Joy. My Source of Comfort. My Source of Love.
Ready to go on Saturday, my team and I had our first “full on” day of getting to know the locals. We met a group of young girls and their mother on the way back from buying veggies. They were so hospitable! The oldest daughter spoke English and she invited us to their home. Her mother poured us tea and offered us tea cookies. The language barrier shrunk as we laughed and conversed a wide range of topics – one of which was religion. Their father came home eventually and spoke some French. In his eyes you could see a gentle spirit. His son translated for him, saying, “I wish all the world was as you are.” Referencing our diverse group of girls.
The whole time I was wondering, “How fast can one learn a new language?” There was so much more I wanted to tell them.
They invited us back for dinner the next day and we had tea and cookies, again, before the actual dinner. WOW. It was amazing.
Since that night, we have had two more meals with another clan, with an open invitation from both families to just stop by any time. I can’t convey the overwhelming sense of normalcy this neighborhood has carried for me. The people here have been so kind and generous, hospitable and friendly.
You may notice in the future a difference in the amount of detail I include, and that is 100% intentional for safety – not mine, but theirs. Also, I want to honor their hospitality and protect their privacy. Any names I do use will most likely be changed.
Until I write again, I would love to be lifted up in prayer. I am thanking God for you, dear Reader, as well.
Wishing you Peace and REST from the Source, His Adventurous Daughter and Your Friend,
Hannah <3
