There and Back Again...

I have spent (nearly) a year in Kenya as a volunteer with the Salesian sisters. I have returned to the cold, festive time of December in Illinois. It feels just like yesterday that I was here in my home..just yesterday that I was with my family.

Reverse culture shock is like looking down on the Earth from a plane:
it changes your perspective significantly.

In many ways, being back home makes the past year feel like a dream. Since no one on this continent was able to journey with me, it seems unreal somehow. But despite these strange feelings, it most certainly happened and I am forever changed by the experience.

Now, many 'normal' American habits* are seeming very 'un-normal.' This process is called reverse culture shock.  If you have ever lived in another culture for an extensive amount of time, I'm sure you've undergone this process. It is bizarre to return to a life that no longer makes as much sense as it used to.

The fact is this: a year really trying to integrate myself into Kenyan and community living has changed me. I am still the same person in many ways, but my outlook on life has drastically altered. A lifestyle that used to seem the only way has become just one lifestyle. A culture that used to be hidden from me because of its close proximity has begun to show holes and idiosyncrasies. 

After having Mass and lunch in this family's home,
they said I was part of the family.

I learned more about American Midwest culture in one year abroad than I did living in it for 24 years. The people I met in Kenya were very curious about our life here--their endless questions made me realize some things can't be explained, but are just a reality. But this unending 'interview' process opened my eyes to understanding many things (like the English language is weird haha). 

Here are some aspects of American living that are currently shocking me. This isn't necessarily a negative list, but something that my eyes are open to now:

• Life of excess

I was immediately shocked by the amount of stuff people have when I first returned. I had become very accustomed to living out of 2 suitcases and having the bare minimum. In the US, we behave like squirrels preparing for winter. Items usually serve one purpose here, so we have an abundance of specialized products (for the kitchen, tools, body products etc.) We have larger homes, so it makes sense that storing things is more practical, but just FYI: hoarding is an American issue.

Standing on the Equator is also makes you
look at life different.

• Value of Money                                                                                                                              

 I can better appreciate the value of $1 now. In Kenya, the equivalent to 1 USD is about 103 ksh. With that many shillings, you can buy some sakuma (kale) and a kilo of ugali flour. This meal could feed at least 2 people. So buying a chai tea at Dunkin' for $4 made me feel guilty because I know the value of money now. Obviously, the cost of living in Kenya is relational to their wages, as it is in the US. But now, I feel a greater responsibility to tithe my money to foreign missions because our money goes farther in places like Kenya. I can easily sacrifice a chai tea over and over in order to help those struggling to survive.

• Machines rule our lives

Dishwashers, washing machines/ dryers, microwaves, refrigerators and electric stoves are necessary to American living. They are intended to be time-saving devices, but somehow Americans are always running out of time, busy at all times. It amazed me to live without all these devices and somehow I still had free time.What I learned: machines aren't completely necessary and they don't always save you time. 

• Cost of independence

Living in Kenya, the thing i missed the most (even surpassing cheese and wifi) was independence. The ability to get into my car and drive wherever, whenever was difficult to adjust to. But that is American life--getting everything yourself. I realized there is little cooperation between neighbors because mobility is so high. The average Kenyan doesn't own a car, but relies on public transportation (aka matatus), so neighbors and family and friends work together and share what they have. Although my limited independence annoyed me, it allowed me to live in community with the people around me. 

• Happiness is a state of mind

The children I met were joyful,
despite enduring a hard life

Unhappiness is found everywhere and there is no magic formula to find peace and contentment in life. But..I personally found happiness in simple living in Kenya. On the whole, I would say that I met more genuinely happy people in Kenya that I have met in the US. I was most struck by the children of Dagoretti--many of them lived in extreme poverty and had difficult home lives, yet they would smile with authentic joy. They have very little in the world, but they still have a reason to smile. Their joy even shined out upon those around them. They were Jesus to me in their innocence and simplicity. 

As time goes on, I know more things about this lifestyle will feel strange, but I will also reintegrate into Midwest culture bit by bit. This blog has been my attempt at translating my experience into coherent thoughts. I have not written these things to accuse Americans living, but to offer a new perspective. Culture is complex and deeply entrenched into our environment, our history and the individuals that live there. It is difficult to understand how we are a product of culture and it is a byproduct of who we are, but this experience has opened my eyes to see the world more clearly. I'm very thankful for the (sometimes) brutal honesty of Kenyans because it helped me attempt to describe my culture. 

Simply Joyful

As my time in Kenya begins to come to a close (about 30 days left!), I’ve been reflecting a lot on my lifestyle here. When I take a step back and examine how I’m living here, I am amazed at myself! Simplicity is the rule, not an option, but it is beautiful.

Some simple aspects of my life:

Asked my students to smile...haha

-- breakfast is always toast and tea, but on Thursdays & Sundays we also have eggs

-- there is no wifi in the sisters house, so I check the Internet for about 45 minutes every other day which means: no videochats, no Netflix, no YouTube, no FB creeping (a serious sacrifice)

-- for the most part, my time is spent in our small compound and the parish next door

-- I spend my evenings alone, re-watching the same movies over and over again on my laptop

-- every meal is planned and prepared for me--we eat a lot of rice, cabbage and greens

-- I go to the supermarket about every 3 weeks (and yes, I always buy chocolate)

-- in order to communicate on my phone, I buy credit in 50 cent increments (it costs about 30 cents for 1 week of texting and 4 cents for every minute of talking)

-- I have no idea what is popular or trending back home

-- my wardrobe is about 1/8 of what I own

Now, I don’t want you to think that this is a laundry list of complaints. It is quite the opposite. This is a list of ways I have been stretched! These are some of the ways I’ve been challenged to live in solidarity with the people around me. In this relative poverty of mine, I have come face to face with my own materialism, dependence on technology, wanderlust, retail therapy, need for independence and an intense craving for food.

Our community (and volunteer Simone)

At first, I was shocked by these discoveries: I had no idea all these issues lingered underneath the surface.  The reality of living in Kenya and living in community with sisters has effectively revealed the effects of living a highly privileged life. I have never been left wanting for the basics of life, but even the luxuries of life have always been within my reach. Sometimes, I find it difficult to acknowledge my own giftedness in the face of the poverty around me. Not only am I materially blessed, but I am rich in relationships, opportunities and life experiences.

All of these gifts are a blessing from God, but how many times have I been ungrateful and asked: Why not me??

1. I’ve learned to be grateful. As I’ve mentioned, being stripped of so much makes me realize just how wonderful my life is! (George Bailey would definitely agree…)

2. I’ve learned to be generous. One of my favorite things about Kenyan culture is their hospitality and generosity. They welcome guests readily into their homes, sharing what they have. The children in Dago especially have taught me this lesson. Even the littlest ones will accept a sweet, then bite it in half to share with their tiny friend. Although many children in this area know real hunger, they have such a spirit of generosity.

Performing with some of my girls

3. I’ve learned that God provides. At first, my time in Kenya was very difficult, mainly due to the cut off from people back home. Limited internet left me feeling lonely and stranded in an unknown world, but God readily blessed me for my sacrifice. In every place I’ve lived in Kenya (about four different communities), He has provided new friends to laugh with and be myself around. Despite cultural differences, He has sent me friends who just get me!

4. I’ve learned to celebrate the little things.  When you eat fruit for dessert every day, imagine how exciting it is when we get to have sodas because visitors come! Back home, whenever I craved something, I could just go to buy it, at any moment. Instant satisfaction is the status quo of life in the US, but when you live in simplicity, each little gift is like a feast.

5. I’ve learned that I can adapt.  My situation seems very difficult from the outside looking in, but when you live day to day, you find the motivation necessary to thrive. I discovered an inner strength in me that I never knew existed. When something new came to challenge me (like water shortages), I realized life was still good. The source of my strength isn’t truly mine, but a grace from God. Evening prayer, the rosary and Mass has been the daily spring of goodness that fuels me for another day. 

Enjoying my time with the junior youth group

Now please, don’t think I’m ‘cured’ of materialism or that I will become a hermit after this experience. I’m still me and so I still want to eat my weight at a Chinese buffet or buy a cute dress for no reason or veg out on a rainy day watching Netflix till I’m tired of doing nothing…but I know these things ultimately don’t bring joy. They are fleeting moments of happiness; they don’t satisfy.  Meaningful work, genuine relationships, self betterment, growing in understanding of human nature…these are some of the things that enrich our time on Earth. I know that being stripped of many luxuries has allowed me to see more clearly and I’m eternally grateful for this lesson.

“Don’t collect of yourselves treasures on earth where moths and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal. But collect for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves don’t break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

Matthew 6:19-21

Karibuni Ndunyu

Dagoretti--crossroads between city and country

Let me introduce you to my new(ish) community: Dagoretti!!! From the end of August to the remainder of my time in Kenya, I will be living/working here in Dagoretti Market.

Service:

Most of my time is spent in our literacy program, which helps children who have dropped out of primary school catch up to re-enter traditional school the next year. In the older class, we have students who are around class 2 and class 4, but their understanding of different subjects varies greatly. I try to work together with the teacher to appropriately challenge each pupil; I usually teach class 4 because they speak more English and I find inspiration to create games and exercises to help in their studies. I spend my free time creating crossword puzzles for Math and English, which they really enjoy.

Class 2 in our little university

Also, part of my time is spent with the vocational school girls, especially in the beadwork department. I am learning to make many things (rosaries, bracelets, necklaces etc.) and it’s fun to join them as they work too.  On Wednesday afternoons, I usually join them for games, which mainly involves getting very dusty in the church compound.

My weekends are spent with the senior and junior youth groups of the parish. Besides their weekly meetings, I have also attended a Youth Mass at a nearby church, a music fest in the city and went to the market with them. Both groups are welcoming, lively and love to sing. I really enjoy my time with these groups--it’s my time to joke around, share stories and be a normal 25 year old.

*Funny Story: The other day I was writing on the blackboard with a tiny piece of chalk. Mid-word it jumped out of my hand and it startled me. The whole class started laughing although a couple of the girls were trying to say ‘sorry!’ in the middle of laughing.

Getting my hair plaited in our technical school.

Community:

What a lively community! The spirit of joy is alive among the six sisters in the Dago community. Suppers are full of stories and laughs and jokes. There is a great feeling of teamwork among the sisters in this community, which is wonderful to witness.

Three of them are at Tangaza University most of the day, but the remaining sisters help the mission run smoothly. Sr. Roselynn, Sr. Annah and Sr. Purity work with the literacy program, technical school and Mama Margaret project in our little compound. Also, although I have repeated many times that I am not called to religious life, they like to tease me and say I'm the seventh sister in their community.

*Funny Story: So, turns out I do a little happy dance whenever I am about to eat something I love (like yogurt, chapati or ugali). And, of course, Sr. Annah catches me every time, which causes us both to laugh out loud.

Neighborhood:

Technically, Dago is on the outskirts of Nairobi, but it is so far away from the city that it feels like the country. Ndunyu (Kikuyu for market) is considered a slum. Many of the homes are close together and very cramped, wifi is impossible, plumbing isn’t really figured out and the primary schools are overcrowded and dilapidated. But on the other hand, some of the roads are transitioning to tarmac, many homes have electricity and there is a general feeling of hope among the young people of the area. I immediately loved the young people here for their joyful spirit in the face of challenges!

*Funny Story: Whenever I go to the market, I am called many names, like: Wanjiku, Wanjiru, Wangechi, sister from another mother…and once ‘white man.’ haha

Weather:

Senior Youth killing their Choral Verse

Nairobi county has higher elevation, so it doesn’t get as hot as Embu did. That being said, the first month of my time here was rather chilly. Every morning as I sat in the drafty church, I had to laugh at my expectation of weather in Africa...I was so naïve. October is supposed to be hot and rainy; the temperatures are slowly climbing and there are beginning to be daily thunderstorms! (which i absolutely love)

*Funny Story: It may be chilly sometimes, but I swear people wear heavy marshmallow coats that are reserved for freezing temperatures back home.  When I see people in them in 60 degree weather, I can literally feel my temperature rising.

The Power of Play

Children during oratory

My twenty days in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania was a time of waiting & watching. Back in Kenya the general elections were being held & the whole country was holding its breath. I had traveled to Tanzania in case of any unrest after the elections (update: there is a re-vote for president in October). I stayed with the Salesian Sisters in Temeke, one of the slums of Dar. The sisters run a nursery school, primary school, technical school, Sunday oratory & young people come to play sports all the time. The mission is very much alive! It is common to see 20 yr olds walking around, holding the hands of 4 yr olds (which is such an adorable sight).

Gratitude Day with some of my friends

Since my duration there was unpredictable, I didn’t have an official role. So, I tried to help out where I could. This included: marking homework and exams, helping the technical students with their English, assisting the other volunteers with their crafts and playing games. Honestly, I would say the majority of my time in Temeke was just hanging out and having fun. And I loved it J

Jackson--my favorite little guy  

Some of the ways I played:
- Skipping with the tiny kids all over the compound
- Quizzing the 7^th graders on their math & science

- Discussing the educational/ political system of TZ with the technical school students 
- Playing basketball & winning in 'Horse' (pretty proud of myself) 
- Drawing in the sand
- Joining the dressmaking students in a dance competition
- Singing & playing guitar
- Going to the beach
- Laughing & telling stories
- and much more

So glad I got to hang out at the beach with these guys

It turns out that I could have stayed in Kenya during the elections; it would have been safe. But, in God’s Divine wisdom, I was given a chance to go to Tanzania.  Although my time there was short, the young people of Temeke left a tangible mark on my heart. During this time, I grew to love Tanzania & its welcoming, friendly people & I look forward to a time I can return.

The Secret to Joy

Just the sweetest girls <3

Although my adventure has moved on from Embu, my heart in some ways is still at Don Bosco Girls Secondary School. The friendships I made there warm my heart with love & gratitude. It was a tough decision to change communities, but I desired more fulfilling work that wasn't available in my role in Embu. I am hopeful that my year of service will continue to be more stretching & wonderful.

Last pile of ironing!!

However, during my time in Embu, I learned a lot. The majority of my work was spent in administrative tasks, library monitoring, sewing on buttons and ironing uniforms. My time was largely spent in these repetitive and boring activities. Since it is a boarding school, the students have very little free time in their timetables, but I made the most of each opportunity by attending Mass, rosary, recreation, cleaning & clubs time.

BUT despite the monotony, there was a distinct reason I was there. It's difficult to understand, even more difficult to explain, but work was NOT the reason moved to Kenya. If I wasn't here, someone would still sew buttons on the school uniforms and someone else would re-organize the school library. It's hard to admit this, but my move half-way across the world to be a missionary isn't about work. My work is the means to my true purpose: love.

This class had a surprise good-bye song & speech for me.

So, instead of feeling disappointed and thinking about what I could be doing, I began to focus on what I could do. Being a volunteer in Kenya is the opportunity to share the Gospel message of love and mercy with so many new people! With this change in perspective, I found much more joy in my work. Instead of doing the work because I was told, I did it gladly because it allowed me to be in this wonderful country.  As I grew in friendship with the teachers, students, workers and sisters, I was able to share more of my life, which  I pray points back to Christ.

My last day in Embu the girls mobbed around me,
trying to show how much love they have to give :)

Beyond what I did, I was given an opportunity to be loved...almost unconditionally by the students. They showered me with love, hugs, letters & even little gifts as I prepared to leave. If there is anything I was able to show them, it was nothing compared to what they gave me: a chance to experience the love of Christ.

This lesson is true for you too! Whether you are working in a big office or work from home or serve the Lord as a missionary, we all have the same mission of love. You don't have to move to Africa to love radically. That can be done by simply striving to see Jesus in the people that cross your path. No work is insignificant in the Kingdom of God--it is our attitude that diminishes work to a mere task. Our perspective on the work in front of us makes all the difference. It is the constant decision to put aside our self-imposed limitations to see the chance to love those around us.

"I slept and I dreamed that life is all joy. I woke and I saw that life is all service. I served and I saw that service is joy."
Kahlil Gibran

...With a Little Help From My Friends

Maureen & Immaculate-- hilarious, fun & caring

To me, authentic friendship is one of the greatest joys in life. I honestly believe I know some of the most hilarious, genuine, caring and wonderful people in the world! When I moved to Kenya four months ago, I didn't know a soul here. But, in God's great Providence, He quickly provided beautiful friends to enrich my life. In a short time, they have taught me so much about friendship.

So, in no particular order, here are some lessons they have taught me:

1.) Let people care for you
I am usually the mom in the friend group & I feel it is my duty to love my friends by helping/ advising them. Much to my surprise, my friends here have 'out-mommed' me! They frequently check to make sure I'm eating, try to make me wear sweaters when it's 'cold' & freak out with every little sniffle I make. At first, I felt like I was being treated like a child. 'I can take care of myself,' was my automatic mental response.
As time has passed, I've realized that they ask because they care. They know I can take care of myself, but they want to show concern for the essential things in life.  I become a better friend when I allow them to love me in the way they know best. Honestly, I still struggle to accept this, but knowing this is how they express their love means so much.

Dan & Emmelda--always there for me!

2.) Want friends? Be humble.
I have found that hilarious things happen to me, especially here. For instance, I have accidentally confused names of people with names for food more than once. Instead of feeling like a complete idiot, I share this story & join in the laughter.  I'm not perfect, so I can't take myself too seriously. Even if you're not a #mzunguinkenya, you can still grow in friendship by learning to laugh at your blunders.

3.) Sharing is Caring
Obviously, sharing material goods is a way of showing you care but, I've learned that so much of friendship is sharing what you can do. Teaching one another is so bonding & fun! Here, I have taught people how to: swim, play guitar & piano, how to type efficiently, speak a little Spanish, and more. In return, I've been taught how to: cook Kenya food, dance, speak Kiswahili/ sheng, etc. I've discovered here that so many friendships start with saying: "I'll teach you!" It's such an adventure to step out of your comfort zone with the accompaniment of a friend.

4.) It's okay to get a little messy

Philipo--helps me stay positive

A couple weeks ago, I was really sick. For some unknown reason, my midsection decided to wage war on me. I felt terrible (and probably looked even worse). I told 2 people I was sick...then the rest of the day I had a total of 9 visitors in my room. They came with advice, sympathy and lemon water. When they heard I was sick, each one took their turn to comfort me. I was shocked! In the US, when sickness is mentioned, people treat you like a leper (except my mom, who is ever faithful!). Here, my friends figuratively stepped into my mess to love me. They didn't leave me to 'get better soon' but they came to check in and take care of me. Their love for me transcended their desire to protect themselves & it meant so much to me.

Janet--my Kenyan big sister

5.) Celebrate Little Victories
I'm learning Kiswahili polepole (slowly). Honestly, I feel like I should know much more by now, but I can practically only speak greetings and how I'm feeling. But, you know, every time I throw out a 'nakuja' (I'm coming) or a 'nashisinjaa sana' (I'm really hungry), I am heartily congratulated. I know my proficiency in Kiswahili is very little, but my friends are proud of my efforts. They make me feel like I just recited an intricate poem with each baby phrases. It reminds me that life happens in little moments, not big events. Celebrate the ordinary, everyday joys with those you love.

Hope this list challenges the way you are a friend to others. I've been pushed in so many ways since being in Kenya & I'm so grateful for the chance to learn more about friendship too!

When Things of Heaven are Wed to Those of Earth*

Palm Sunday

Sr. Carol before she disappeared in the crowd

Kicking off Holy Week, I attended the Palm Sunday Youth Mass and Procession. It began with the blessing of the palms in the stadium in Embu town. Sr. Carol and I were a little late; as soon as we joined the crowd, Bishop Kariuki sprinkled us with holy water and off we went! The crowd consisted of about 200 young people, but as we processed through the streets of Embu, more and more people joined us.

Most people had full palm branches they waved while singing songs of Hosanna. I have never felt so close to Jerusalem before! As we processed through the streets, there was a great energy and excitement among our group. I could easily imagine Jesus was just a couple steps ahead of me.
I quickly lost Sr. Carol in the crowd, but one of my friends, Louise, found me in the crowd. After our hour walk to Karangu Girls Sec. School, Louise & I found a seat under the tents for Mass. The Embu University choir that had kept the music going as we walked there, continued to be awesome. They had so much fun, singing and dancing at Mass that I wanted to go join them!
Bishop Kariuki gave a wonderful homily on Pope Francis' theme for youth this year, "The Mighty One has done great things for me" (Lk 1:49) He described how Mary's words echo in our own lives, when we trust in God to work miracles.

Louise is such a sweetheart

During Communion, the skies opened and rain poured down. Although the Eucharistic ministers were under umbrellas, I knew I'd be drenched going to them. However, just as I was about to exit the tent, the Bishop (of all people) appeared right in front of me! #Godmoment
After Mass, the choir danced for entertainment & then the fundraising portion. At this point, it was about 1pm (we had started in the stadium at 9am). Louise & I were joined by Brenda, another student. We went to the food vendors that were gathered around the gate of the school, enjoying smokies and biscuits.
We then walked back to Embu with Sr. Carol and about 8 more students. It was so great seeing the girls in normal clothes (instead of school uniforms). They were so happy and free! It had only been a couple days since I saw them last, but I had missed them!

Chrism Mass
The Chrism Mass for Embu Diocese was on Thursday; although I would also be going to evening Mass, I couldn't pass up an opportunity to witness a priest procession! There were probably 40 priests there--one literally danced down the aisle during the procession.

Look at all those priests!!

Mass only lasted 2.5 hours, which was short! Afterwards, I was pleasantly surprised to get a plate full of rice, chapati, meat stew and a slice of watermelon for lunch. Then, being escorted by the sisters, I greeted almost every priest and sister from other congregations. Holy Thursday is the institution of the priesthood & religious life. So everyone was smiling, saying, "Happy feast!"

For supper, we really did feast! We had chicken, potatoes, soda and GRAPES!!! Delicious, sweet, red grapes that cost ksh 250 per package. I didn't know I had missed them so much. It was just another 'oasis in the desert.' :)

Holy Thursday

Vivian and Rachael

For the Holy Thursday liturgy, we went to the nearby parish, St. Francis. I decided to sit by myself, since the church wasn't very full. Luckily, it began to fill up as mass started. Two girls, probably around 8, sat next to me. At first, they kept their distance, but I kept catching them looking at me and my Magnificat. I handed it to them to look at as we waited for mass to start (this is Africa--nothing starts on time). They huddled close together, mouthing the words to the prayers.
Mass was not that different from home, but with extra songs added in.  My friends left for a bit, but when they returned, they sat right next to me. They were a lot less shy now. After Mass, Fr. Jeremiah invited the sisters (and their visitor) to greet the parish. When it was my turn, I spoke too fast, of course. I watched the whole church lean forward in the 'pardon?' gesture I've become very accustomed to. After repeating myself at a slower pace, everyone welcomed me with a loud, 'Karibu.' I love Kenya :)


Good Friday
What I've learned this Holy Week: I love processions!! And the Stations of the Cross procession left from right outside our gate for Good Friday. Leading our group, a full-size cross was carried by someone different each station. I found it very inspiring as the cross-bearers clung to the cross at each station. Then, they would hoist it up onto their shoulder with help from the people around. We walked at the pace of the cross-bearer, so in a way we were engaged in their journey.

I loved slowly walking and praying in the countryside.  Since I didn't understand the songs (except  'Nothing but the Blood of Jesus') or readings, I was able to enjoy the mystery of Good Friday at my own pace. The sun was high and hot, so every bit of shade was cause for celebration. The fragrance of the path was a mix of Grandma's garden, Georgian pine forest and something uniquely Kenyan. Just lovely prayer time!

The procession took 2 full hours from our gate to St. Francis church. Without realizing it, I received a righteous sunburn & as a result, felt light-headed and nauseous during the service. I spend most of it sitting outside the church, but I wasn't alone since many people with children were out there as well. Even in that momentary suffering, I saw God's hand, since it allowed me to be with Christ in his pain.

Easter Vigil
Once again, we headed to St. Francis Church for Easter Vigil at 7pm. We began outside, gathered around the bonfire. (As we waited, I made more friends--one little girl wanted to know all 3 names of everyone in my family. After each one, she said, 'oh, that's nice.')
The liturgy was rather simple: no brass section, gorgeous bouquets of flowers or ornate cloths. But, they had an energetic choir and parishioners, a keyboard with a variety of beats,and many songs! Around 20 new Christians were welcomed into the Church that night, many in darling white dresses.

Not going to lie, I fell asleep many times during this mass. It lasted about 4.5 hours! Luckily, once I got too comfortable, the keyboard would start again and we'd get up to dance and clap. Attending this liturgy was great (despite my sleepiness). It was simple and authentic, full of true human experience!

Easter Sunday

Sr. Jane showing me the ropes

Surprisingly, this was the most unexciting liturgy this week. The sisters decided to attend mass at Don Bosco Boys Secondary School (which is just down the road from us). There were only 15 people in total; mass only lasted 45 mins! Afterwards, Fr. Minor invited me and Sr. Jane to tea. Since I have only been to DBBSS once before, I was happy to visit with our neighbors.
For Easter lunch, I helped Sr. Jane make chapati (fried tortilla thing). Which is another way to say: she corrected my mistakes on each one! We feasted at both lunch and supper, since it was also the animator of the community's birthday. Sr. Geraldine turned 78! Like all celebrations here in Embu, we processed in with the cake, gifts and a drum, singing and dancing. It doesn't get much better than seeing sisters singing 'cut the cake-y' and trying to hit each other with balloons.

May the joy of the Risen Lord be with you and your families!

*the title for this blog is from the Easter Proclamation on Easter Vigil--I think it's beautiful :)

Let the Children Come

Our parade.

Adventures ensue with my travel mama, Alwine, Rainer, Irene & Miguel (the Spanish volunteers)! Visible from just outside the compound is what's known as 'the hill.' (I'm sure it has a more official name), which is about an hour and a half walk from us. Along with Honorada, the sisters' cook, we left the compound around 11am, while the air was still fresh and sweet, especially in the shade. But this is Kenya and it soon became extremely hot.

An hour into the walk, we arrived at Anne's house, who works in the production unit & was our guide for the day. The children around her nyumba  quickly pulled up chairs and a table for us, then came the large thermos of chai and boiled arrow root.  Sitting in the shade, chatting was very pleasant, but there was still a lot of trekking ahead of us.

Some of the children who walked with me.

From this point, we suddenly grew in number as more and more people joined us for our walk up the hill. Anne, her daughter, sister, nieces, nephews and children from the village joined us. Our group had gone from seven to around 20. At first, the children just stared at us (there were 5 wazungu in one group..) but as we rose up the hill, they became more outgoing.

One girl, Paris, began as the spokesperson for all the children. She was confident and had excellent English. She was the first to ask for her picture to be taken..the rest obviously followed. After our little photo shoot, I had lost my original group and was surrounded by children. I was pretty ok with it.

Once we broke through the tree line, the hill rose steeply and the sun beat mercilessly down on us. I was panting (and embarrassed) as the children walked past me. As always, the final stretch was the most strenuous, but the reward was worth it. The slopes of Mt. Kenya lay before us, with patches of sunlight and shadow caused by the fluffy clouds. It was a wonderful sight!

After resting for a while up top, we descended the hill on the other side. The path was not really a path, so the rowdy boys ran all over trying to find the best way down. I happily stayed in the rear of the group with the younger girls. One of them, Gloria, was an incredibly sweet girl of about eight. Her shoes were not appropriate for the steep, rocky hillside, so it took her a long time to climb down. At one point, we became separated from the rest of the group. She said I didn't walk very fast, but, I told her, I was walking with her. She smiled and from that point was constantly by my side.

'Jesus'..Gloria is on my right, in the striped shirt.

After we got to the bottom, all the children informed me that we were going to see Jesus. Logically, I expected to be taken to a church. Instead, we arrived at these sand towers that radiated heat. The kids all ran around, climbing all over them. I'm still not sure why they call them Jesus...

As we returned to Anne's, I was beginning to feel comfortable with the group of children that surrounded me. I felt like Don Bosco--a friend of the youth. As we said good-bye to them, I felt quite content with the way Jesus had blessed my hike that day.

With Jesus in the Desert

What sacrifice are you making for Lent? Is it to give something up, add prayer or make a resolution? Every year, I try to find something for each category, in order to celebrate the season of Lent fully.

This year, everything is flipped upside down. Instead of living in excess (like so many Americans do), I live very simply here: no sweets, little Internet, zero Netflix, etc. I also attend daily Mass, rosary and have time for personal prayer. Since being in Kenya, I have felt like I've been in Lent the whole time! The comforts I'm so used to are absent from my life, which has allowed me to love my neighbor better and discover God more easily.

But, I'm a rule-follower, so I was determined to find something I could sacrifice. Ash Wednesday was fast approaching and I still was unsure what could be trimmed out of my life. On Fat Tuesday, we journeyed over sand and stone for hours, while dust puffed in through the cracks in the vehicle, settling in every crease. The greatest feast at that moment was the cold water and soda waiting for us in North Horr.

The next day, my body was tired and trying to adjust to the weather. Normally, Ash Wednesday would be a time for fasting and prayer, but at that time I was too exhausted to make an effort in prayer. Instead, the events that unfurled for me were my prayer!

For example, we didn't have traditional fasting on Ash Wednesday. Since we had just returned from down Kenya, the sisters had to eat the fruit and veggies that we brought before they spoiled. So, I was told to eat well. Then, that evening after Mass, we went to the oasis in the middle of the desert, a project by the Salesian fathers. They had built a swimming pool, lounge area and sold cold drinks. I was overjoyed to get to swim! The water was cool and refreshing, the company was fun and engaging and my heart was content.

North Horr is actually an oasis itself--
they have no water problems!

As the stars and moon began to shine, I floated on my back, feeling guilty for having such a great time on a day that should be full of sacrifice. Yet, God

My sketch from the pool. It was one of those things
a camera cannot capture.

was listening to me. In that moment, I realized the significance of this Lent: I needed to discover the oasis in the desert. Instead of giving something up, I was asked to search for the joy in the midst of sacrifice. Sometimes, this is harder. It requires constant effort to find reasons to be grateful when living on mission. It goes beyond "don't eat chocolate" to "find Jesus, especially in the desert."



So far, I have been amazed at how beautiful and present God has been during this Lent. Sure, most of my meals consist of beans, maize, and cabbage, but sometimes we have chocolate (for Women's Day). And maybe it is difficult to communicate with friends and family back home, but I have made some great friends here in Kenya. And maybe the water in Embu rarely issues from the pipes, but there is beauty in experiencing poverty that is a reality for many people.

This Lent, I am excited to continue to be with Jesus in the desert and discovering the oasis of His mercy.

Adventure is the Name of the Game

If this picture doesn't spell 'adventure,' I'm not sure what does!

This past week, while the girls went on midterm break, I had the opportunity to head up north to the desert with Alwine and Rainer. I was excited to see even more of Kenya (although it is disputed if it is actually Kenya past Marsabit) and experience a new culture.

Jumping for joy on the sand dune!

We set off last Monday with a rough idea of what would unfold. But this wasn't an ordinary trip--it was divinely appointed. God perfectly planned our trip, without worrying us about the details. The night we arrived in Karare, the sisters there told us that the private driver would be heading to North Horr the next day and we should go with him. So we had only a quick stop over in the semi-arid desert before heading back to the 'road' to head up to North Horr. Alwine and I had a fun little game called "adventure." Whenever something was uncomfortable: we said adventure. New and exciting: adventure. Total surprise: adventure. Basically, anything is an adventure when you're putting your vacation in God's hands.

Watching some women build a new manyata.

Much of the first day and a half in the desert was adventure, without the fun. It was hot and windy and sunny and dusty. At first, there wasn't much to do. We spent the first day sitting around, trying to figure out how to keep our hair from blowing everywhere. By Wednesday night, we were able to go to the swimming pool after Mass. As I swam around, feeling refreshed by the cool water and watching the stars pop out of the vast desert sky, a great peace entered me.

From that moment on, my time in the desert was wonderful. Sure there were more unpleasant 'adventures' (like a scorpion in my room), but I felt so relaxed. Much of this was due to the company. Sr. Anisia and Sr. Jackie are wonderful--they laugh easily, love deeply and know how to make others feel welcome. I also made friends with Philipo (artist) and Dan (dj, driver, everything else) who work for the fathers there. We played music, hung out, discussed culture and just had fun together. The Gabra tribe that lives there is still very vibrant. Their dress, homes, music, and customs are largely pre-westernization. Although they were shy of us wazungu (foreigners), they were very friendly.

This will not be a trip I am likely to forget soon! Based on the joy and peace I experienced up there, I know God had it planned for me. We ended up staying 5 days in North Horr, something that made Alwine and I smile as we simultaneously said, "adventure."

Embu is in the middle of the map, Karare is just below Marsabit
and North Horr is in between Marsabit and Lodwar.

Day in the Life

For my 1 month anniversary in Kenya, I thought it appropriate to write about what I actually do here. It has been quite the journey. I spent 2 weeks in Nairobi doing odd jobs, then I continued to float around for an entire week in Embu. This past week, I was able to live out a schedule (Alleluia!). My mornings are rather unexciting, but any time to interact with the students is wonderful. After exams/ break, I will get to teach form 3 PPI, which is apparently a class about life and faith...so a Bible study!! Also, when the students return from break, I will commence a program to teach leadership to the prefects.

6:00 wake up--usually to the sound of goats, birds, roosters and 280 girls getting ready for the day
6:30 daily Mass--even early in the morning, the girls are energetic singing the songs for Mass
7 breakfast--Alwina made jam with papaya, mango, passion fruit and horn fruit (and she kindly gave me a jar:)
7:30-11 work in the school--my jobs are administrative and repetitive, such as: stapling exams, filing, covering books. it gives me a chance to play little challenges with myself in efficiency (all that sociology of work research resurfaces)
11:30-1 production unit-- I help make school uniforms by sewing on buttons, ironing & cutting material
1 lunch with the sisters/ volunteers--we are uber diverse: 2 Germans, 1 Brit, 3 Kenyans, 1 Pole and me!
2-4:20 more work in the school
4:20 join the girls in their afterschool clubs, movements, debate or games (aka sports)
5:30 rosary with the girls
6 dinner/ rec--sometimes in the crazy dining hall. if a student 'convinces' me to sit with them, they'll escort me to their table with cheers. a bowl, spoon and stool appear from nowhere & they all chip in some of their food to share with me. hospitality at its finest :)
7-8 Madame Librarian--basically, I just sit in the library so the students can come in & study
8-9:30 introvert time

As I start to form relationships with the girls, I find myself wanting to watch them grow and mature. Overall, they are very welcoming, energetic and fun. I am still overwhelmed by how I'm treated like a celebrity, but I pray I may be able to form real relationships with them. Can't wait to see it all unfold!

During rec time, the girls all swarmed together to have their picture taken!

The north side portion of the school. It was so quiet during the exams!

Emmelda & I felt like prisoners this week since we worked on printing out thousands of exams!

The Start of Something Beautiful

Everything the light touches...

After a week in Embu, I have gotten to know the students here a bit better.  This boarding school has a typical structure to many in Kenya. The students wake up at 4am every morning, even the weekends. Their time is spent in class, studying, daily mass, daily rosary, cleaning, clubs and recreation. They wear their uniforms or school-issued work out clothes the whole day. Every student is registered with a number and everything they possess here is labeled, from their blouses to skirts to washing pails to their stool in the dining hall. The education system back home is so different, that I was shocked by the militaristic approach to school.

During a sunset hike over the foothills of Mt. Kenya.

I am astonished by the work ethic of these girls. Their day starts while the sun is still fast asleep and is packed to the brim. During their study sessions at night, the school is quiet. It's amazing!

Despite such a strenuous schedule, the students here are very welcoming and joyful*. Most of them are so excited to meet me, touch my hair and ask me questions. They have so many questions about America, myself and my perceptions of all things Kenyan.

Top 3 questions:
1) How is Trump? Dunno. Haven't talked to him recently.

The house for the sisters! The grounds here are so beautiful!

2) How do you like Kenya? The people are very friendly and welcoming!
3) What is your education system like? Very different. Basically opposite.

Overall, I recognize that the sisters are trying to run a different school here. Since the education standards for Kenya are so strict, they find it difficult to run a school based on the preventative system of Don Bosco. However, they still try to treat everyone with reason, religion and loving-kindness. I hope I am able to befriend the students and teachers. My goal here (and everywhere) is to shine the light of Christ for all to see!

 *pictures of the students to come. I try to get to know them personally before asking for a picture because...duh.

Moving On Up

I had originally been placed at the Provincial House in Nairobi, with the hopes that I would be the communications expert for their new Development Office.  Although, I technically have a degree in Communications, it is neither my expertise nor my passion, so I asked to move. Within a few days, a place was found for me in Embu, where the Salesian sisters run a secondary school (high school). I looked forward to going where my talents would be better utilized. Sr. Geraldine, the superior in Embu, has planned for me to help in their youth ministry!

view from my porch

Therefore, Within two days of arriving at the Provincial House, I knew I was leaving. However, there was a bed shortage at Embu, so I stayed in Nairobi for two weeks. In that time, I helped a sister from Togo learn English, helped a sister from the Congo with a group paper, played with the kids at the boarding house on the weekends, helped the Spanish volunteers with the development office and did a lot of dishes. Although I loved the sisters there, I felt restless; I was still in transition.

Two days ago, I got in the Land Rover to move to Embu, a 2.5 hour ride north of Nairobi. The school here has about 270 girls, ages 13-17. The community has 5 sisters and a German couple, volunteering until April. Out here, we are literally in the country. They have goats, cows, large gardens and so much beautiful vegetation.

These beautiful flowers are everywhere, in red, purple, and white!

My new apartment in Embu. 

Unfortunately, my time in Embu has been tainted by sickness, but I was feeling better today. So, when the German couple, Alwine & Rainer, asked me to join them for a walk, I eagerly accepted. Although the sisters live about a 20 minute drive from Embu, there are houses here and there and a couple shops around. We walked on dusty red dirt roads, zig-zagging to hit the shade. In the shade, the heat is bearable, but the sun beats down with such ferocity!

Way off in the distance is Mt. Kenya. 

I know you can't see it, but trust me :)

. 

We walked for about an hour to a Canan Garden Resort. On their recommendation, we ordered fresh mango juice (which was a bit cold!) and water. At this point, I was parched and chugged it all down.  I was so happy!

Then, we visited some of their friends who live in the country. We travelled down twisting, dusty roads before arriving. We met the couple, two of their kids, a great-grandmother (who was either 102 or 120..they couldn't decide), and a bunch of other relatives that live next to them. Sitting in the shade of a tree, we sipped on orange drink and talked about little things. They were very hospitable. As we sat there, their chickens and rooster walked around, clucking. Their yard opens up to a river (where there are monkeys!). It was a very pleasant time, since the conversation was friendly and the breeze was refreshing.

I am very thankful for my first 'real' adventure into Kenya!