These past couple of days have been amazing and eye-opening. I can't tell you how many times I've dreamed of coming back to America and enjoying its pleasures. Staying in Tanzania for this long has been one of the hardest, yet most life-changing things I've ever done. There's no possible way to put all of lessons I learned in a blog post. It would take weeks.
The kids are absolutely wonderful (as usual), so it was especially hard to say goodbye. I don't think they quite understood that I would not be going out tomorrow to play with them. I've become so close to all of them, but some I hold special in my heart.
The kids have a very different childhood experience than mine. My childhood was filled with the love of my family and new experiences. Their childhood is filled with trying to understand why they don't have parents and their "mothers" are nuns. Nevertheless, the kids are filled with joy and happiness. It amazes me. I take so much for granted, but at least now I realize it.
Yesterday, we went on a crazy hike with our friend Peter. NEVER go on hikes with Africans. They practically bound their way up mountains. Anyways, Peter took us to go see a waterfall. All he said was "wear good shoes". Turns out, we trekked through the jungle and had to cross the river at least 7 times to follow the "trail". There was no trail. We trail blazed. The guy in front of me literally had to chop down plants and hold back branches for me. It was worth it in the end though...
Right now, I'm sitting at the Kilimanjaro Airport wishing I had more time here but also wishing to go home. I would call the feeling bittersweet. I'm so excited to see all of my family and friends and FOOD. Pray for safe travels please :)
-Changed woman
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