This is a continuation of Meno Man Time Part 1. Check it out Here!
Since our walk had taken so long, we realized that we would probably miss breakfast back at camp, so we decided to get some at the resort. Chris offered to treat Derek and myself, which was fortunate because we were not planning to buy anything. We went into one of the restaurants overlooking the lake, and saw a beautiful breakfast buffet. We ordered and started getting ready to eat. The food in Malawi wasn't bad, but it had been a while since we had been able to partake of such a spread. Our mouths were watering. At least until we were told that the total would be $51USD! In Malawi, you can get an incredible meal for under $3, so we were expecting a $10 tab at most. Talk about price gouging! We politely informed the waiter that we had decided to skip out on the buffet, and just get some coffee.
After enjoying our coffee and more good conversation, we grabbed our ticket and went to the counter to pay. We got to the counter, and Chris gave them his card. The lady shook her head and said that the credit card machine wasn’t working, and that he wouldn’t be able to pay with a card.
“Well, that’s unfortunate,” I remember saying in between laughs. Derek and I didn't have our wallets, and Chris didn’t have the cash to cover the tab, expecting to use his card. We got into game plan mode, and decided that we could have one person stay at the resort while the other two got a bike taxi back to camp to get money, and then return to pay the “ransom.”
I volunteered to stay, partly because I was enjoying the air conditioning, and partly because I was enjoying the situation way too much. As I mentioned earlier, I have a “We’re making memories” attitude, so I thought the whole situation was hysterical. Chris and Derek were a little less amused.
Eventually, they came back and settled the tab, and we walked to the road to hitchhike a ride back to camp. We found a truck taxi and hopped in the back expecting to head directly home, intending to get back in time to participate in morning ministry. The driver took off, went about 100 yards, and then stopped and turned off the truck. We asked the people in the back if we would be waiting long, and they said “No,” so we just waited. And waited. And waited.
Finally, after about 20 minutes of standing still, the driver turned the truck back on. We were ready to go. However, instead of taking us to camp, the driver put the truck in reverse, and went right back to where he had picked us up.
What?! It was like we were on candid camera or something. We couldn’t anything but laugh at this point. Chris and Derek came around, and started enjoying the craziness as well. The taxi continued this pattern for a while, as the taxi driver was trying to solicit people to ride with us so that he would make more money.
Finally, after about an hour and a half in the taxi, we made it back to camp. The usual taxi from Livingstonia took about 15 minutes. Overall, we had left at 5am and we returned at 10am. The ladies on our team were worried about us. There were rumors going around that I was in jail. People didn’t know why three fairly responsible guys had disappeared without a trace and missed ministry opportunities without any explanation.
After playing up some of the jail stories and joking with squadmates, we eventually explained the situation and apologized to those we had offended.
All in all, no harm was done, and we were able to have an awesome day. Derek, Chris, and I had a great time of community and adventure. I know when I look back on the race, that journey will definitely stick out in my mind.
In life, we all have chances to chase the bigger story. Jesus tells us that life is an adventure. When he calls us to a life in Him, he calls us to an abundant life.
I want to challenge you today to think about opportunities you have to live that abundant life with Jesus. Embrace the adventure.
Live a life full of stories you’ll want to tell your grandkids about! I promise you won't regret it.
