“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.”
~Augustine of Hippo
I never cease to be amazed whenever arriving to a new place how 'novel' and 'exhilarating' everything seems, yet how similar to photos, stories and descriptions found in books the place really is. This creates an odd sort of familiarity to a land, culture and people that is completely foreign. So it was upon arriving in Tanzania. Its Africa! Yes, what I see, hear and smell is different than home. For example, upon landing I spotted a stork flying. At Dar-Es-Salaam the immigration officials seemed rather relaxed and disorganized. All around the language is the air is Swahili. Everywhere the roads are bumpy and a maize of cars, motorcycles, dola-dolas and people walking. Its Africa! I felt completely at peace and safe, even amongst the unknown before me. Furthermore I am very grateful and honored to be able to explore another 'page' in the book of the world titled - Tanzania.
Back to travels. This was the farthest that I had travel alone. My journey took me through six airport in just two short days. Really quite a miracle. I was able to see the flower bulbs for sale in Amsterdam, the Alps from above, the landscape of Italy, the real massive size of the Ionion Sea and almost feel time fast forward with two sunsets (caused by being at such high altitudes, the curve of the earth and flying east). Then from the flight within the country I sat next to a Tanzanian pilot who told me all about the national parks, wildlife and history of Tanzania, as well as pointing out landmarks along the flight.
Sometimes its the small things... Amsterdam
Everyone I met along the way, especially the further east I traveled, were helpful and friendly. Especially the angel God sent me in Dar-Es-Salaam. I had arranged for my friend from college's friend's friend's friend to take me to and from a hotel in Dar. (Which was the safest way for me to get around). Except that I accidentally told them the wrong date. As a result when I stepped out of the airport into the warm African night around 10 PM I had nobody I knew to pick me up. I picked up a conversation with an Indian lady who lived in the city. She was friends with a girl I had befriended on the airplane. She with confidence said she would take me to the hotel if nobody came. She called my ride, informed me about the miss-communication about dates and told me they would meet me at my hotel. Then I, feeling very much safe and peaceful, climbed into the bed of a truck with her. Looking back, I don't know if this was the best thing to do. However this lady was an angel and took to the front desk of the hotel. That was the most exciting part of the journey.
Upon arriving into the city I am living, the Bishop graciously picked me up and brought me to the international school I am to be interning at. Again I did not know where I was to live upon arrival. This is when I was introduced to a young English family whom opened their home to myself. John and Dawn have lived here for two years. John is planting an international church and Dawn is a teacher at the school. They have two beautiful sons ages 6 and 3 years. The boys have the sweetest English accents are always making the cutest remarks. For example just at bedtime little Caleb asked, "Why can't we see Jesus?" Joseph trying to answer this complex question said, "Well You've got a heart. That means Jesus is inside of you." Caleb not quite understanding stated, "He's inside my stomach. Can we cut it open and see Him?" (or something along those lines). There is also a young Kenyan family living in the house. They have a two year old son. The three boys are always playing together. I am very grateful to have a family to live with while here. Furthermore they are very generous and have invited myself to participate in as much of their activities as I want. The good Lord has once again provided.
As for the school... today was just my second day. I think I'll save sharing about the school for another day....Just for a taste though there are monkeys on the school ground who are known for stealing food from the children's lunches...
(not my picture)
