Rural Homestay (UB#7)

It is really difficult to know where to start writing about something that I haven’t even really begun to process. I spent the past week in rural Uganda. I stayed with a wonderful family, ate wonderful food (even if I never want to see another groundnut, peanut, or anything that in any way resembles either), and somehow I think my brain grew. I learned that a hut is a home, that making less than $2 a day does not mean you’re starving, and that I really don’t like ants/spiders/snakes/rats. I’m sure I’ll be blogging more in the next couple weeks, but for now, the thought of thinking about the past week makes me feel tired… so here is a poor quality video that is probably a better representation of the past week than anything I could say right now!

jokes. that video probs doesn't work. just gonna have to wait till the internet is stronger.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VXqtj36DqQs&feature=youtu.be

Atmosphere (UB#2)

I realized earlier today that I needed to get out, to leave the confines of my small dorm room and spend some time alone, and so I resignedly leave my dorm room, knowing it is what I need to do, but somewhat unprepared to face the outside world. Within a minute of leaving my room I realize I have snuck up on the two girls walking in front of me. The pace of life here is slower; a walk across campus is something to be enjoyed. I slow my pace a bit late as the girls look back, probably wondering why I’m so close to them, but I’m thankful for the reminder to relax. As I walk I carefully avoid puddles filled from the afternoon rain shower that forced earlier chapelgoers to pack tightly together under a small overhang in order to avoid the fury of the rain. I eventually find a staircase overlooking campus and take a seat. The stress falls away as I sit under a beam of sunlight so strong it is forcing me to fall in love with the shade. The gentle breeze carries the smells of the city up from Lake Victoria and mingles those scents with the smoke pouring from the dining hall where enough rice is being cooked to feed thousands of students. I sit there for some time just taking in the sites and smells.

Andrew commented yesterday that my time here will shape who I am. And this is so true. It already has. I have learned to have patience. Cross-cultural relationships should not be rushed any more than I would rush into relationships with my peers at trinity. I have learned that I must have patience with myself as I remember to get enough sleep and to embrace the precious little alone time I get here. Uganda is a beautiful country, but it is also very different from anything I have ever known and for this reason I must embrace the emotions I have felt since being here and accept that this is not easy. There will be times when I must allow the tears welling up inside to pour out, but for now I must daily let it be my prayer that through this I might learn, I might grow, and I might be changed for the better, rather than for the worse. To God be the glory. 

(The entrance to campus... known as the main gate)