Well, I have not been able to resist temptation and instead have been out in the sun a bit. Because the weather is cooler, i can tolerate being out in it longer. I just have to remember that we are in the tropics so the sun is really strong. I actually set an alarm so I know its time to head in!
This week has been movie week for me. A couple of days ago I saw the new Jackie Chan flick, "Forbidden kingdom". It was great, and very funny but also the action was just wild. Big fun!
Today I saw the new Narnia-"Prince Caspian". Very very good, in some ways I liked it better than "The Lion, the witch, and the wardrobe".For me, it was about having faith and trusting. it is always a struggle to fix things in a hurry and our way, rather than doing it according to how God has promised us it can be done. Also, searching for Him when we need Him, as we need Him, and sometimes before things get so out of hand.
I do not want to wait until things get out of hand before calling on Our Lord for help. i do not want to just ask for Him to get me out of a jam. I want to learn to fall on Him as I do things, on a daily, no a minute to minute basis. i want to surrender everything to His Will and allow that Will to be the force in my life. I do not expect ever to do great things in this world. But Lord teach me to come to you always, even for the minor details of my life. Your Grace is sufficient.
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Found without translation
Another day in my journey of learning Tswana. Tswana is a beautiful language with rolling RRs and lots of melodic pronounciation. I am excited when a Batswana can understand through what is left of my American accent. What I really love, what really warms me, is that even if you try, the people will appreciate your efforts and they are so polite in aiding you.
One of the greater joys for me is when a native decides he or she needs to impress me with their English. Almost everyone can speak some English, but it is that applause some of the younger adults like when you tell them their English is very good, or sharp.
Today, I was outside the gate waiting for a ride and was watching folks walking up and down the road. Good, I thought, a great chance to practice my Tswana. One young man, in his late teens, swaggered towards me, and smiled.
"Hello Madam, how is the day?" This is a direct translation from one of the greetings. how is the day? I could almost see his chest puff with pride at his English. I thought about answering him back in Tswana, but no-I answered him properly-Hello Sir, the day is wonderful. How is the day for you?
As he nodded an assent, he strutted off very proud of himself. And he should be. How is the day? is sooo much bigger than"whats up" or even How are you.............
Communicating with another group is not always about showing off your own progress, sometimes, often it is about your heart and your ear.
One of the greater joys for me is when a native decides he or she needs to impress me with their English. Almost everyone can speak some English, but it is that applause some of the younger adults like when you tell them their English is very good, or sharp.
Today, I was outside the gate waiting for a ride and was watching folks walking up and down the road. Good, I thought, a great chance to practice my Tswana. One young man, in his late teens, swaggered towards me, and smiled.
"Hello Madam, how is the day?" This is a direct translation from one of the greetings. how is the day? I could almost see his chest puff with pride at his English. I thought about answering him back in Tswana, but no-I answered him properly-Hello Sir, the day is wonderful. How is the day for you?
As he nodded an assent, he strutted off very proud of himself. And he should be. How is the day? is sooo much bigger than"whats up" or even How are you.............
Communicating with another group is not always about showing off your own progress, sometimes, often it is about your heart and your ear.
Monday, May 26, 2008
Okay, it is not a holiday here!
Alright, so I spent a good part of my morning thinking I cannot go out anywhere because it is a holiday. Well, okay, it is NOT a holiday here. I do not have a car yet, so I am going to call a cab and go! Interesting thing about cabs, it is where I receive most of my marriage proposals. Hmmm. It is very funny. If you take it with a grain of salt and a sense of humor, it becomes kind of fun and I actually get into great conversations with these guys. I even brush up on some Setswana while I am out.
Later we are all going to see the Jackie Chan movie," Forbidden Kingdom". The weird thing is the Batswana do not go to movies much. They are relatively cheap here but everytime I have gone-it seems to be only whites. Oh well. The last time I went to a movie there were only three of us there to begin with. I imagine since it is colder and greyer now, the theaters will be busier. The new Indiana Jones movie is out so maybe next week.........
Later we are all going to see the Jackie Chan movie," Forbidden Kingdom". The weird thing is the Batswana do not go to movies much. They are relatively cheap here but everytime I have gone-it seems to be only whites. Oh well. The last time I went to a movie there were only three of us there to begin with. I imagine since it is colder and greyer now, the theaters will be busier. The new Indiana Jones movie is out so maybe next week.........
Good morning!
Today is Memorial Day in the States and it is usually one of my favorite holidays. Besides, it is a just holidays to honor those who gave their lives for us, it is also the beginning of summer for the States. Today my niece and favorite person celebrates her graduation and I will call her later today. I am not sure but I think it is probably warm today there! Happy holiday to my US brothers and sisters!! Hope your day is filled with good stuff!
Now, we are cold today--brrrr. And it has rained yesterday and today-very unusual. It is supposed to get cold, but I am actually surprised at how cold.I am actually wearing a jacket and long pants. Some of the leaves are changing too, although I am told that they do not change alot.
Africa has been full of daily surprises for me!
Church was really great yesterday as always. Glyn was the guest pastor and had a good message. Basically, it was about what to do now that you are a Christian. I particularly enjoyed thinking about the name"Christian", once a nickname used to deride the new believers. It means "Little Christ". Hmmm....that is the challenge isn't it? It is not enough to declare yourself a believer and then go on your merry way. Our belief system is a system of action. I believe strongly that we should maintain following Christ's example of getting out there and talking. Well, I am here.
Therein lies the new challenge for me personally. Since I am currently in preparation to go north to Francistown, I feel like I am stuck in neutral. I know that was difficult for me in waiting to come here. Waiting on the Lord is a challenge for all of us. How many times have you thought about a prayer that seems to be taking too long? And then, you may feel or even go ahead and abandon this prayer?
Frustration sets in pretty fast for us. But remember that Jesus had plenty of downtime-when He would leave the crowds to rest or seek His Father in prayer. So this time for me needs to be spent seeking the Lord in prayer, not sulking about having to wait. As I have said before, I certainly kept Him waiting long enough.
Now, we are cold today--brrrr. And it has rained yesterday and today-very unusual. It is supposed to get cold, but I am actually surprised at how cold.I am actually wearing a jacket and long pants. Some of the leaves are changing too, although I am told that they do not change alot.
Africa has been full of daily surprises for me!
Church was really great yesterday as always. Glyn was the guest pastor and had a good message. Basically, it was about what to do now that you are a Christian. I particularly enjoyed thinking about the name"Christian", once a nickname used to deride the new believers. It means "Little Christ". Hmmm....that is the challenge isn't it? It is not enough to declare yourself a believer and then go on your merry way. Our belief system is a system of action. I believe strongly that we should maintain following Christ's example of getting out there and talking. Well, I am here.
Therein lies the new challenge for me personally. Since I am currently in preparation to go north to Francistown, I feel like I am stuck in neutral. I know that was difficult for me in waiting to come here. Waiting on the Lord is a challenge for all of us. How many times have you thought about a prayer that seems to be taking too long? And then, you may feel or even go ahead and abandon this prayer?
Frustration sets in pretty fast for us. But remember that Jesus had plenty of downtime-when He would leave the crowds to rest or seek His Father in prayer. So this time for me needs to be spent seeking the Lord in prayer, not sulking about having to wait. As I have said before, I certainly kept Him waiting long enough.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
the backyard
On first glance, as a North American, i noticed that there was no grass! We sweep our yards, not mow. Wow, that was a change. Then i noticed the plant life. This yard has an abundance of plants which I believe Susan worked very hard to cultivate. We have huge cacti-like in the pics of deserts! When I say huge I mean much higher than any human. There are sanseveria, which is a common houseplant in America. Lots of succulents, which I happen tp like but never thought of as backyard plants.
Then, sigh, there are the flowers. Wow! Huge wonderful intoxicating blooms of purple, red, white and blue. We even have some kind of honeysuckle, bright orange that grows over the car port. Little white and blue and pink flowers dot the yard. This brings me to the creatures back here.....we have lots of really amazing geckos, mostly black, but very cute. And the butterflies! I have never seen such an array of variety! Little tiny butterflies and huge hand sized butterflies, all with unique coloring.
I sat out in the sun today, for the first time since I arrived. The sun is really strong here, hence the tropics, so I have been careful not to burn and use lots of sunscreen. Today I just needed to soak it in.....we are heading toward winter so it felt good to sunbathe. I was trying to read, but was captivated by the colors and scents. What a wonderful place to be!
Then, sigh, there are the flowers. Wow! Huge wonderful intoxicating blooms of purple, red, white and blue. We even have some kind of honeysuckle, bright orange that grows over the car port. Little white and blue and pink flowers dot the yard. This brings me to the creatures back here.....we have lots of really amazing geckos, mostly black, but very cute. And the butterflies! I have never seen such an array of variety! Little tiny butterflies and huge hand sized butterflies, all with unique coloring.
I sat out in the sun today, for the first time since I arrived. The sun is really strong here, hence the tropics, so I have been careful not to burn and use lots of sunscreen. Today I just needed to soak it in.....we are heading toward winter so it felt good to sunbathe. I was trying to read, but was captivated by the colors and scents. What a wonderful place to be!
Monday, May 19, 2008
Useless objects-anyone for a yard sale?
Today the message at church was about Phillippians 3 and what we gain, what we lose. It was very convicting for me. Not just the words, but part of our service is inroducing first time visitors. As people stood up and gave their names and where they are from, we heard voices that spoke of Kenya, and Zimbabwe, of a woman from Uganda who is HIV positive and needs money to get back. I do not know first hand what these people lost, but coming to know Christ, I can know what they have gained. I have struggled since I came with twinges of loneliness, and missing home folks, and of course the continual worry of money and even strength and will. However, I would not change anything! Well, I certainly would have packed less "stuff". WhenI stayed in Marabelo, Glyn and Susan came to visit. They texted me to see if I needed anything. Well, think about it. I am in the middle of an almost desert; hot, dusty, dry, with no extra stuff. The only thing I really wanted was lip balm because my lips were so dry. I realize now how extraordinarily funny that is.....how attached I once was to stuff and the only thing I wanted was lip balm.
All we need is Christ, and all we have to do is ask. Then a marvelous thing happens-He comes to us and stays! Well He really was always here! Sometimes the journey is like Dorothy's journey home from Oz. She finds out she had the ability to go home all the time---wow, are we hard headed.
All we need is Christ, and all we have to do is ask. Then a marvelous thing happens-He comes to us and stays! Well He really was always here! Sometimes the journey is like Dorothy's journey home from Oz. She finds out she had the ability to go home all the time---wow, are we hard headed.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Wow! See this movie!
Stunning!! We rented "The Valley Of Elah" last night. If you have any doubts we should not be sending our children to war, this movie will erase those doubts shortly after it stomps on your heart. Tommy Lee Jones is the lead; he is not one of my nost favorites but his performance blew me away in this. Very good. Did I mention what a good movie?
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Thank you for being a good friend!
You with the sad eyes don't be discouraged
oh I realize it's hard to take courage
a world full of people you can lose sight of it all
and the darkness inside
you can make you fell so small
But I see your true colors shining through
I see your true colors
and that's why I love you
so don't be afraid to let them show your true colors
true colors are beautiful like a rainbow
Show me a smile then don't be unhappy,
can't remember when I last saw you laughing
if this world makes you crazy
and you've taken all you can bear you call me up
because you know I'll be there
And I'll see your true colors shining through I see your true colors
and that's why I love you
so don't be
to let them show your true colors
true colors are beautiful like a rainbow
By Cyndi Lauper
Just so you know your love and encouragement will come back to you-you have really blessed me, my friend
oh I realize it's hard to take courage
a world full of people you can lose sight of it all
and the darkness inside
you can make you fell so small
But I see your true colors shining through
I see your true colors
and that's why I love you
so don't be afraid to let them show your true colors
true colors are beautiful like a rainbow
Show me a smile then don't be unhappy,
can't remember when I last saw you laughing
if this world makes you crazy
and you've taken all you can bear you call me up
because you know I'll be there
And I'll see your true colors shining through I see your true colors
and that's why I love you
so don't be
to let them show your true colors
true colors are beautiful like a rainbow
By Cyndi Lauper
Just so you know your love and encouragement will come back to you-you have really blessed me, my friend
Rollin' along.....
This has been an entirely WEIRD week. I just am glad its over----There are lots of things on my mind as i write this. In a few weeks I will be moving to Francistown finally. It has not been easy for me to settle in knowing that I will be moving again. I feel right now like I am idling in neutral and in a way I am. I have a lot of items to straighten, and a lot of plans. I am happy to be jumoing into F/town but I will miss the Allison-Jones, and Amy Susanna, oh and of course Mavis. As I am sitting here, the temperature is dropping and it is a bit chilly. I am actually wearing a sweater! I am anxious to see how cool it really gets. I know Francistown is farther north so it is warmer there---it is above the Tropic of Capricorn. I just heard from my mom's social worker and she is doing great after her recent surgery and is painfree. God is so cool!
When i was in the village, i never had time alone it seemed. Every minute i felt like someone was visiting or coming to get me to take me somewhere. Now that I am back, I almost miss that social interaction. City people are so different than the villagers. I guess thats life in the city--people are in a hurry and are not quite so warm. I love going to the main mall market and sitting with the old ladies and watching people, who are usually of course watching me.
But i am lonely for someone just to hang out with, drink tea, and chat. I am trying to tell myself that I have only been here for two months so that makes it easier.
I have daily reminders that I am so much in God's Hands here-I feel protected and safe but still vulnerable to human anxiety. And that too, is quite normal I think. i know i miss my Friday night guys--Hank, Mike, Kyle, Jeff, and Earle of course. And lisa, Donna, and whoever else shows up for late nights at Hanks. Oh and I definitely miss playing Scrabble with Adriel and laughing our butts off at some of our words.
I miss Sarah and Grey and Ethan and Abbie and Nate too. Yikes, I am headed into trouble here.
Anyway, i noticed and had been warned by more experienced mission workers and ex pats that emotions will be in my face here. Despite the uneasiness, I think it is a good thing to be put through. i cannot help but be stronger afterwards and with God to lean on-it is a great lesson!
When i was in the village, i never had time alone it seemed. Every minute i felt like someone was visiting or coming to get me to take me somewhere. Now that I am back, I almost miss that social interaction. City people are so different than the villagers. I guess thats life in the city--people are in a hurry and are not quite so warm. I love going to the main mall market and sitting with the old ladies and watching people, who are usually of course watching me.
But i am lonely for someone just to hang out with, drink tea, and chat. I am trying to tell myself that I have only been here for two months so that makes it easier.
I have daily reminders that I am so much in God's Hands here-I feel protected and safe but still vulnerable to human anxiety. And that too, is quite normal I think. i know i miss my Friday night guys--Hank, Mike, Kyle, Jeff, and Earle of course. And lisa, Donna, and whoever else shows up for late nights at Hanks. Oh and I definitely miss playing Scrabble with Adriel and laughing our butts off at some of our words.
I miss Sarah and Grey and Ethan and Abbie and Nate too. Yikes, I am headed into trouble here.
Anyway, i noticed and had been warned by more experienced mission workers and ex pats that emotions will be in my face here. Despite the uneasiness, I think it is a good thing to be put through. i cannot help but be stronger afterwards and with God to lean on-it is a great lesson!
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
The importance of Patience, or How Iearned to Love the wait
Okay. Deep breath. This morning I woke up with an attitude. Actually, i feel like I have had a mood now for about a week. I think I came home from the village a bit stressed. i loved it there, i loved the pace or lack of pace and really have not slid into life here yet. I think what is really strange for me is that I am discovering that I really do love it here and I do not miss the States as much as you would think. I miss people I love, but no, i really feel content here. Or will when i start to actually work.
Last night before i went to bed, i read an email that upset me. And it really was my own interpretation, and not wanting to be told that we will work out things. When I woke this morning, i felt sad and a little betrayed. I started feeling like I was just in a tight spot. funny, the last time i felt exactly this way, i was telling everyone the God will work "this" out for His Glory and that I trusted Him. This time, i allowed my impatience and attitude to get in my own way. Not fair-not fair to the people around me, to the person who emailed me, myself anf really not fair to The Lord. After all, I am here. And later today, we received an email confirming that people and God are working to make something happen that i tried to give up on today. So, yes, I am humbled AGAIN. Thank you Jesus for setting me straight. It is You I need truly.
Last night before i went to bed, i read an email that upset me. And it really was my own interpretation, and not wanting to be told that we will work out things. When I woke this morning, i felt sad and a little betrayed. I started feeling like I was just in a tight spot. funny, the last time i felt exactly this way, i was telling everyone the God will work "this" out for His Glory and that I trusted Him. This time, i allowed my impatience and attitude to get in my own way. Not fair-not fair to the people around me, to the person who emailed me, myself anf really not fair to The Lord. After all, I am here. And later today, we received an email confirming that people and God are working to make something happen that i tried to give up on today. So, yes, I am humbled AGAIN. Thank you Jesus for setting me straight. It is You I need truly.
Monday, May 12, 2008
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Boroka
Thank You, heavenly Father for this day.
The sky was so blue and the air so crisp and refreshing. Thank You Lord for Friends and Family and companions along this path.
I ask for a gentle night and blessings on loved ones new and old. I ask a blessing on this country for peace and a growing awareness of Your Presence and Your Everlasting Love.
I ask that tomorrow when the sun rises I may walk with the knowledge of your mercies and that I may strive to be a better daughter to you. I ask that I may encourage, and comfort, and express your blessings without pride or anger or harshness.
Grant that tomorrow I be a better Christian than I was today and grant that each day brings me closer to the person you want me to be.
The sky was so blue and the air so crisp and refreshing. Thank You Lord for Friends and Family and companions along this path.
I ask for a gentle night and blessings on loved ones new and old. I ask a blessing on this country for peace and a growing awareness of Your Presence and Your Everlasting Love.
I ask that tomorrow when the sun rises I may walk with the knowledge of your mercies and that I may strive to be a better daughter to you. I ask that I may encourage, and comfort, and express your blessings without pride or anger or harshness.
Grant that tomorrow I be a better Christian than I was today and grant that each day brings me closer to the person you want me to be.
Boroka
Thank You, heavenly Father for this day.
The sky was so blue and the air so crisp and refreshing. Thank You Lord for Friends and Family and companions along this path.
I ask for a gentle night and blessings on loved ones new and old. I ask a blessing on this country for peace and a growing awareness of Your Presence and Your Everlasting Love.
I ask that tomorrow when the sun rises I may walk with the knowledge of your mercies and that I may strive to be a better daughter to you. I ask that I may encourage, and comfort, and express your blessings without pride or anger or harshness.
Grant that tomorrow I be a better Christian than I was today and grant that each day brings me closer to the person you want me to be.
The sky was so blue and the air so crisp and refreshing. Thank You Lord for Friends and Family and companions along this path.
I ask for a gentle night and blessings on loved ones new and old. I ask a blessing on this country for peace and a growing awareness of Your Presence and Your Everlasting Love.
I ask that tomorrow when the sun rises I may walk with the knowledge of your mercies and that I may strive to be a better daughter to you. I ask that I may encourage, and comfort, and express your blessings without pride or anger or harshness.
Grant that tomorrow I be a better Christian than I was today and grant that each day brings me closer to the person you want me to be.
Saturday, May 10, 2008
two movies
Well, we had two movies this weekend. One, on Thursday night was"Things we lost in the fire" with Halle Berry and Benecio Del Toro. Good story, slow, though and almost painful. Very intense and there was no way around it. Tonight we watched "Hitch" with Will Smith. Wow, great fun. I definitely enjoyed it and would see it again and again.
I have been a little dragged out since returning from the village. As a matter of fact, today i was actually missing Marabelo and all the great people there. I look forward to visiting again. I am still a little homesick for the States. it is a weird and weary feeling to stop and think"My word, I am here! Finally--Africa!" I miss alot of folks back there---there were one or two unresolved issues and I think about them often. i know that at this point anything unresolved will fade into nothingness....to me if people could not express themselves properly knowing i was leaving then the issue never was mine to begin with-just some drama they needed to dredge up. I certainly miss my family and my closest friends.
I am sure I will feel better once i develop more relationships here. i have already started to meet people---I talk to everyone! I will say I have not met any Americans my age yet though. Some teens, but no adults. I think my American accent is fading but thats okay too.
I have been a little dragged out since returning from the village. As a matter of fact, today i was actually missing Marabelo and all the great people there. I look forward to visiting again. I am still a little homesick for the States. it is a weird and weary feeling to stop and think"My word, I am here! Finally--Africa!" I miss alot of folks back there---there were one or two unresolved issues and I think about them often. i know that at this point anything unresolved will fade into nothingness....to me if people could not express themselves properly knowing i was leaving then the issue never was mine to begin with-just some drama they needed to dredge up. I certainly miss my family and my closest friends.
I am sure I will feel better once i develop more relationships here. i have already started to meet people---I talk to everyone! I will say I have not met any Americans my age yet though. Some teens, but no adults. I think my American accent is fading but thats okay too.
Friday, May 9, 2008
Two weddings, a funeral, and the one year anniversity of a death
While I was in Marabelo, i received lots of invitations. all were important but the first and second weekend I was invited to two weddings. What fun!
The first wedding was in a nearby village called Gulubane. This was also a small traditional village so I was anxious to go. I also was only in Marabelo for a couple of days so i was excited to be out among villagers in their own setting,not a city setting.
I was invited to sit in on the groom's family meeting ans although I did not speak much setwana yet, what pertained to me was translated. The family leader felt it important that I was treated well, and as a guest and should be made to feel happy. As much as this is gracious and a blessing, i also wanted to feel like a part of our village and not set apart more than necessary.
The women made me feel quite comfortable, but I made it a point to walk around and talk to people. i must admit that my favorites were old women and young children.
When the bride and her family arrive at the groom's house, there is much dancing and shouting. The women ululate loudly and dance in front of the family with brooms and blankets, representing the bride's new domestic duties. It is very important to make the bride and her family feel welcome and they were served tea. I was permitted to be part of this and it was wonderful. I then went walking towards the cooking fire, and was asked to dance by some of the young adult women. They apparently thought I would not, because as soon as I did, many of the girls cheered and ran to dance with me. I was then given a chair where they had been preparing vegetables and got to join their group. we had a great time; they talked about their impressions of the States and I shared my impressions of Botswana. Some of these young women had never been out of the village but they knew a great deal about life outside. They were curious and were very pleased that I also asked them questions. I had really connected with a few of them and I had companions for the rest of the wedding.
After dinner, we then danced. This group did not do any real traditional dancing. Instead, there was a DJ and we did some line dancing. I tired out and took a seat with the Khaiza family, who were pleased that I enjoyed myself despite the language difficulties. We watched one of the most gorgeous sunsets I had ever seen and soon left for home.
The next weekend the wedding was more traditional, with the bride and groom in traditional clothes. There was a group of men from the couple's church who proceeded to sing and dance for the wedding guests and then a group of women. It was a great deal of fun, and once again I sat with the elderly women who were very curious about me. I learn so much from them-many of them do not ever leave the village but their wisdom and outlook transcends town boundaries.
Very early the next morning, Rra Khaiza and I left for a funeral for a young man. There seem to be only two main reasons for someone so young dying--car accident or disease. He did not die from an accident. It was very sad, and i hurt for the family. Seems as though funerals are held almost entirely on weekends, usually on Saturdays. Well, in this country, there are always funerals. The percentage of AIDS deaths is high, but also auto accidents are unbelievably high. Driving here is risky business, for so many reasons. Alcoholism, cars that are unsafe, and disregard for road signs......yikes.
This past weekend I was invited to a very special celebration. It was a celebration of the local church's bishop's one year anniversary of his death. At this service, his widow will have her widow clothing, or uniform removed and her grieving period is considered over. We started the celebration Thursday night and the feasting began on Friday. Saturday night we gathered at the church at about 10pm and the celebration was at about 3am. We then continued to worship, sing, dance, pray until 6 or so, maybe 630am. It was then time for me to get ready for the drive back to Gaborone. Life here is good. It is hard, but we find ourselves involved in simple but wonderful celebrations.
The first wedding was in a nearby village called Gulubane. This was also a small traditional village so I was anxious to go. I also was only in Marabelo for a couple of days so i was excited to be out among villagers in their own setting,not a city setting.
I was invited to sit in on the groom's family meeting ans although I did not speak much setwana yet, what pertained to me was translated. The family leader felt it important that I was treated well, and as a guest and should be made to feel happy. As much as this is gracious and a blessing, i also wanted to feel like a part of our village and not set apart more than necessary.
The women made me feel quite comfortable, but I made it a point to walk around and talk to people. i must admit that my favorites were old women and young children.
When the bride and her family arrive at the groom's house, there is much dancing and shouting. The women ululate loudly and dance in front of the family with brooms and blankets, representing the bride's new domestic duties. It is very important to make the bride and her family feel welcome and they were served tea. I was permitted to be part of this and it was wonderful. I then went walking towards the cooking fire, and was asked to dance by some of the young adult women. They apparently thought I would not, because as soon as I did, many of the girls cheered and ran to dance with me. I was then given a chair where they had been preparing vegetables and got to join their group. we had a great time; they talked about their impressions of the States and I shared my impressions of Botswana. Some of these young women had never been out of the village but they knew a great deal about life outside. They were curious and were very pleased that I also asked them questions. I had really connected with a few of them and I had companions for the rest of the wedding.
After dinner, we then danced. This group did not do any real traditional dancing. Instead, there was a DJ and we did some line dancing. I tired out and took a seat with the Khaiza family, who were pleased that I enjoyed myself despite the language difficulties. We watched one of the most gorgeous sunsets I had ever seen and soon left for home.
The next weekend the wedding was more traditional, with the bride and groom in traditional clothes. There was a group of men from the couple's church who proceeded to sing and dance for the wedding guests and then a group of women. It was a great deal of fun, and once again I sat with the elderly women who were very curious about me. I learn so much from them-many of them do not ever leave the village but their wisdom and outlook transcends town boundaries.
Very early the next morning, Rra Khaiza and I left for a funeral for a young man. There seem to be only two main reasons for someone so young dying--car accident or disease. He did not die from an accident. It was very sad, and i hurt for the family. Seems as though funerals are held almost entirely on weekends, usually on Saturdays. Well, in this country, there are always funerals. The percentage of AIDS deaths is high, but also auto accidents are unbelievably high. Driving here is risky business, for so many reasons. Alcoholism, cars that are unsafe, and disregard for road signs......yikes.
This past weekend I was invited to a very special celebration. It was a celebration of the local church's bishop's one year anniversary of his death. At this service, his widow will have her widow clothing, or uniform removed and her grieving period is considered over. We started the celebration Thursday night and the feasting began on Friday. Saturday night we gathered at the church at about 10pm and the celebration was at about 3am. We then continued to worship, sing, dance, pray until 6 or so, maybe 630am. It was then time for me to get ready for the drive back to Gaborone. Life here is good. It is hard, but we find ourselves involved in simple but wonderful celebrations.
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
ONE
Is it getting betterOr do you feel the same
Will it make it easier on youNow you got someone to blame
You sayOne loveOne life
When its one needIn the night
Its one loveWe get to share it
It leaves you babyIf you dont care for it
Did I disappoint you? Or leave a bad taste in your mouth?
You act like you never had loveAnd you want me to go without
Well its too lateTonightTo drag tha past outInto the light
Were oneBut were not the sameWe get to carry each other
Carry each otherOne
Have you come here for forgivenessHave you come tor raise the dead
Have you come here to play JesusTo the lepers in your head
Did I ask too muchMore than a lotYou gave me nothingNow its all I got
Were oneBut were not the sameWe hurt each otherThen we do it again
You sayLove is a templeLove a higher lawLove is a templeLove the higher law
You ask me to enterBut then you make me crawlAnd I cant be holding onTo what you got
When all you got is hurt
One loveOne bloodOne lifeYou got to do what you should
One lifeWith each other
SistersBrothersOne life
But were not the sameWe get to carry each other
Carry each other
One
Village part uno
Buckle your seatbelts-this is liable to be a small novel. This was an exciting part of my stay here in Botswana, and it was also a very hard part.
No matter what i expected, it was bound to be an eye opener. Susan and I left for Francistown and Marobelo on a beautiful Wednesday morning. The drive was to be about four to five hours long and we were both anxious to get started. part of the trip would be to go into Francistown and see the house where I would stay when I moved to Francistown. The trip itself was a typical Botswana roadtrip, crazy drivers, potholes the size of VWs and stray animals. When we arrived in town, we stopped to get a bite to eat and did some driving around to look at various places. I loved the house-it is really nice and in a good section of town.
By the time we arrived at Mma Khaiza's house, my hostess, it was getting late but we decided to make the trip out to the village anyway. Marobelo is about 45 kilos from Francistown so it was not a late night.
When we arrived, we drove past the village church to the Khaizas plot. Rra Khaiza was waiting for us, along with his son, daughter in law, grandson Kagiso, and a young girl who helped out by the name of Wangu. She would be my housemate.We were a bit shocked to find out that there was electricity in the village, although not everyone had it. i am not disappointed to tell you we had it. We did not however have any running water or inside plumbing. This was more expected.
The next morning I arose late--around 930 and went to the son's house for breakfast. Afterwards Rra Khaiza and i walked through the village and met his mother who is just wonderful. She does not speak any English, and actually spoke Kalanga, another Botswana language. Many of the villagers were Kalanga and since i am just learning setswana, I was a bit nervous.
We also met the Kgosi, the chief of the village and some of his officers. Most villages have a Kgotla, a town meeting place where many decisions are made and even legal disputes are settled.
The village was full of goats, donkeys, cows, chickens and dogs. I realized as I stood before the huts and rondevaals that this was the real deal. The huts are built from mud, and the roofs are thatched by hand.
Meals were usually pap, or cornmeal, and a mixture of vegetables, and sometimes meat, usually chicken or beef. I discovered easily that it is part of the culture to literally fill my plate--I mean there was no plate showing! I also ate with my fingers, using the pap as a dipper and scooping the food. The young girls came around before and after meals to wash our hands.
One of the difficulties for me is not so big--the down time. Because I of my age, I was not given any duties. This was frustrating, although i was also very grateful at times. Someone brought my food, cleaned my dishes, and even brought me the tub and hot water for my bathing. After a few days, i put my foot down gently by getting up early and starting my own fire, heating my own water, and getting my own bath ready. I learned the fine art of bathing from a bucket!
After dinner, several of us hung out together with babies, children, puppies and adults just milling around and laughing together. My language skills or lack of, really got a workout.
I read six books in the first week, and walked a great deal. Everytime we would walk out, tons of children would follow us. I really enjoyed the babes-they were friendly and funny and all the little ones helped me best as they could with my language difficulties.
A word about the climate-it was semi desert---dry, dusty, very warm during the day, and occasionally very very windy. We got water from a village tap, and the conditions were really harsh. I was amazed at how these folks lived on a day to day basis. The birds were glorious, and the skies at night were unforgettable. But night was very very dark, and I was happy for my torch.
One of my favorite parts of the stay were the invitations from different families. I often visited people at night, when I could not even see their faces for lack of light, to sit and drink tea in front of their huts. On the other hand, everyone was so curious about me that I received visitors constantly, including as I was bathing people would talk to me through my window! The children were never shy about coming to see me....sometimes it was still dark when I would hear a cute little voice asking for "Aunty" as he or she opened my door.There was little sense in locking my door--people would bang until I answered.....
Often people would come to take me someplace-a mother's house, something to see, anyplace and would arrive to tell me we are going NOW. I started dressing in very native clothing, skirt or dress with pants underneath, head scarf always, and always had sunscreen. Oh, and bug repellent. I believe I am getting over my fear of spiders, and good thing. Some were huge, and I do mean huge. One evening I heard the puppies carrying on and yelping and went outside to see what the fuss was, only to discover them playing war with a funny looking spider. Turns out it was a rather large scorpion about the length of my hand. I chased the puppies away and avoided that part of the yard just because......
One of the interesting things for me was how people reacted to my color. Most people were very kind and warm, and the children were either absolutely curious and nosy or they were afraid. Some of the children even tried to wipe my color off, as if it were just a coat of paint. As it turns out, i was the first white person many of these children had ever seen. some of the adults were a little hesitant to be friendly, assuming i might not be friendly. When they heard me trying to speak their language, and trying to help with the cooking, many barriers fell, and when I visited folks, it became commonplace for others to come by to invite me the next night.
I must say, i fell in love with these folks. Some things were so frustrating, but other things were joyous and just heart-fulfilling. More later.......
No matter what i expected, it was bound to be an eye opener. Susan and I left for Francistown and Marobelo on a beautiful Wednesday morning. The drive was to be about four to five hours long and we were both anxious to get started. part of the trip would be to go into Francistown and see the house where I would stay when I moved to Francistown. The trip itself was a typical Botswana roadtrip, crazy drivers, potholes the size of VWs and stray animals. When we arrived in town, we stopped to get a bite to eat and did some driving around to look at various places. I loved the house-it is really nice and in a good section of town.
By the time we arrived at Mma Khaiza's house, my hostess, it was getting late but we decided to make the trip out to the village anyway. Marobelo is about 45 kilos from Francistown so it was not a late night.
When we arrived, we drove past the village church to the Khaizas plot. Rra Khaiza was waiting for us, along with his son, daughter in law, grandson Kagiso, and a young girl who helped out by the name of Wangu. She would be my housemate.We were a bit shocked to find out that there was electricity in the village, although not everyone had it. i am not disappointed to tell you we had it. We did not however have any running water or inside plumbing. This was more expected.
The next morning I arose late--around 930 and went to the son's house for breakfast. Afterwards Rra Khaiza and i walked through the village and met his mother who is just wonderful. She does not speak any English, and actually spoke Kalanga, another Botswana language. Many of the villagers were Kalanga and since i am just learning setswana, I was a bit nervous.
We also met the Kgosi, the chief of the village and some of his officers. Most villages have a Kgotla, a town meeting place where many decisions are made and even legal disputes are settled.
The village was full of goats, donkeys, cows, chickens and dogs. I realized as I stood before the huts and rondevaals that this was the real deal. The huts are built from mud, and the roofs are thatched by hand.
Meals were usually pap, or cornmeal, and a mixture of vegetables, and sometimes meat, usually chicken or beef. I discovered easily that it is part of the culture to literally fill my plate--I mean there was no plate showing! I also ate with my fingers, using the pap as a dipper and scooping the food. The young girls came around before and after meals to wash our hands.
One of the difficulties for me is not so big--the down time. Because I of my age, I was not given any duties. This was frustrating, although i was also very grateful at times. Someone brought my food, cleaned my dishes, and even brought me the tub and hot water for my bathing. After a few days, i put my foot down gently by getting up early and starting my own fire, heating my own water, and getting my own bath ready. I learned the fine art of bathing from a bucket!
After dinner, several of us hung out together with babies, children, puppies and adults just milling around and laughing together. My language skills or lack of, really got a workout.
I read six books in the first week, and walked a great deal. Everytime we would walk out, tons of children would follow us. I really enjoyed the babes-they were friendly and funny and all the little ones helped me best as they could with my language difficulties.
A word about the climate-it was semi desert---dry, dusty, very warm during the day, and occasionally very very windy. We got water from a village tap, and the conditions were really harsh. I was amazed at how these folks lived on a day to day basis. The birds were glorious, and the skies at night were unforgettable. But night was very very dark, and I was happy for my torch.
One of my favorite parts of the stay were the invitations from different families. I often visited people at night, when I could not even see their faces for lack of light, to sit and drink tea in front of their huts. On the other hand, everyone was so curious about me that I received visitors constantly, including as I was bathing people would talk to me through my window! The children were never shy about coming to see me....sometimes it was still dark when I would hear a cute little voice asking for "Aunty" as he or she opened my door.There was little sense in locking my door--people would bang until I answered.....
Often people would come to take me someplace-a mother's house, something to see, anyplace and would arrive to tell me we are going NOW. I started dressing in very native clothing, skirt or dress with pants underneath, head scarf always, and always had sunscreen. Oh, and bug repellent. I believe I am getting over my fear of spiders, and good thing. Some were huge, and I do mean huge. One evening I heard the puppies carrying on and yelping and went outside to see what the fuss was, only to discover them playing war with a funny looking spider. Turns out it was a rather large scorpion about the length of my hand. I chased the puppies away and avoided that part of the yard just because......
One of the interesting things for me was how people reacted to my color. Most people were very kind and warm, and the children were either absolutely curious and nosy or they were afraid. Some of the children even tried to wipe my color off, as if it were just a coat of paint. As it turns out, i was the first white person many of these children had ever seen. some of the adults were a little hesitant to be friendly, assuming i might not be friendly. When they heard me trying to speak their language, and trying to help with the cooking, many barriers fell, and when I visited folks, it became commonplace for others to come by to invite me the next night.
I must say, i fell in love with these folks. Some things were so frustrating, but other things were joyous and just heart-fulfilling. More later.......
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