Habari which means Hello in Swahili

Habari is the greeting shared by the locals here in Kenya. I was able to practice it a lot as we (Elizabeth, Kayla and I) walked approximately 2 miles to get a Matatu (Kenyan mini van transports, usually navigated by crazy drivers). God's grace has covered us while we have been here. We boarded a "safe" Matatu the morning of our travels and safely made it to see the Maasai ladies. We are spoiled in the States! I don't know if you can really see poverty until you've seen it here.

I was able to meet such humble and gracious Maasai women. It is tradition to eat fried fat (as they have nothing else to offer as visitors arrive) when you are invited into their small huts, which in many cases are smaller than the size of one of my bedrooms at home. Thankfully, Elizabeth told the Maasai ladies that only she would be eating what was offered the day we visited. She explained to me how dreadful the taste of the fat was as it "burned her throat" when she swallowed. I was grateful that she saved Kayla and me from that experience.

I was also able to meet with some of the local missionary ladies for a Bible study on Tuesday. One of the scriptures covered was Galatians 6: 9 - "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." I believe this scripture came to life for me as I look at the tremendous responsibility bestowed upon those serving here. I admonish you all to join me in praying for the mission workers and their children here. The need to be strengthened and encouraged consistently is great.

Yesterday, I was so blessed as Elizabeth invited several mission workers and their families over to her small house for a potluck dinner (in the yard) in order to meet Merritt, the children and me. Please understand that the time that the dinner took place was heavy traffic and the roads are so terrible that driving slowly is mandatory. Many of the people made at least a 1 hour trip out to meet us with their children.

I had hoped to come and be a blessing, but I think I have been blessed by seeing the sacrifices Robbie and Elizabeth Gordon make, and the sacrifices made by those who work and teach God's word here. The people are generally kind, but their need is great. Everywhere one looks there is poverty. I pray that those of you keeping up with this blog can help Merritt and me to be a blessing from afar to those of and being helped by Living Water Christian Fellowship.

Our trip here is ending soon, but I know the people here will be in our thoughts and prayers.

May God bless you all.

Carolyn