EXPECTATIONS OF AFRICA

So you think you know the reality of Africa?

I know we all have assumptions and expectations of countries or people around the world.

We all do, from all sides, and you can't tell me differently!!!

The fun is when you can be honest and not take yourself so seriously when you come to admitting that WOW, we really don't know.  In that place you can then open yourself to see the many layers that reflect a country and a people.

From city to suburbs you see walk up for your choice of dried fish and limes to one of the very very best cappucinos I have ever had.  

Paved streets to lanes where it is a miracle we don't bottom out and loose a muffler or get stuck.

For a dinner meeting last night we took 1 3/4 hours to travel a 10 min trip and for fun go to You Tube and check out "driving in Kampala".  Laughter is truly a coping mechanism!

The reality is though, that even in our unique difference, the people I am meeting show me how very similar we are.

We both have hopes, dreams, fears.  We both desire to be affirmed, respected, valued, empowered, accepted.  We both desire to work together in relationship and I want to be in relationship with these people.   Over the years I have heard many people say that they come away from Africa feeling they have received more than they gave and I can say it is true.

I will work on trying to articulate it better, but for now I will just receive this gift that I did not expect.