Connections

I'm not always sure what's noteworthy or rather blogworthy, but tonight three moments captured my thoughts as I was preparing to call it day.

They both revolve around connections. Life here sometimes seems not so different than life in other places. I wonder what I'll make for dinner, what's clean to wear tomorrow, or where time went since I once again didn't get as much done as I hoped. In other ways, life is very different. The reminders of the disparity between the rich and the poor. Leprosy in faces on the street bringing stories that seemed of old to be in the here-and-now. Challenges of living in a different culture.

Tonight I was reminded of the things that ground me, that make me remember who I want to be and why I am here. It has something to do with connections.

The first connection is to the earth. I love watching things grow. I am trying once again in my garden, since the first attempt during the long rains was not so fruitful, to put it lightly. The short rains are upon us, with morning downpours filling the streets and dousing any daring to be out. I am planting seeds from three different people who know me well and their love reminds me of how blessed I am.

The other connections today were brief moments, but just as significant.

I went with a Focolare group to visit a home for children rescued from situations of sexual violence. It was the first service trip planned this year and we were working from the seat of our pants with what to do to entertain the twenty children once we were there. I was impressed by the impromptu stand-up comedy skit and poem recited bringing laughter and lessons on life. I offered to lead a game and had everyone make a circle "duara" - today's new word. Before I could even explain the rules, the little guy next to me was hanging on to my hand as if I was his new best friend. Here he was not even up to my elbow and had experienced what no one should. We had gone there to show these kids love. Instead I was reminded of how simple love can be.

This evening I was able to help our property owner with a small favor as she prepares to leave the country tomorrow to see her sister. Her sister is not well with emergency surgery planned to see if they can save her life. As I offered my condolences and prayers with a brief hug, the clinging response was a reminder of how precious life is. Her words went something like "we stay together" - different words, different languages, different backgrounds and different generations but we stay together and hold each other up when we can. Please remember her sister and all who are suffering with your thoughts and prayers.

Our group today, visiting Mahali pa Usalama - Place of Peace
Visiting friends from Los Angeles bring connections home. Asante sana kwa kuja! Thanks so much for coming, Pia & Anselm! Read about the Varni's visit by clicking here.
And finally, comic relief.
Sometimes you have to really look to see the connections.

Thank you to all my connections. Wishing you enough of what you need.
Mary