Learning, Living, Experiencing

We have not been here a week, but in a way, it seems like a lifetime--in a good way.  Our new world is so far removed from anything familiar.  We knew there would be differences, so this is not entirely unexpected.  Overall, the family is adjusting well.  The kids are connecting with the orphans here and getting settled in the mission house.  

I have to be honest in saying that I really feel for them.  The gravity of what they've given up weighs on me.  They are living "one day at a time" and trying not to focus on what was left behind.  Please pray for clear communication and a quick adaptability for each of them.  They are maintaining incredible attitudes and doing very well in connecting with this new world around them.

For me, cooking is a new challenge.  We are looking carefully at what is available and trying to prepare meals based on that.  Beans, fresh fruit, vegetables and potatoes are readily available, but meat Is pricey, so I've been trying to cook with less meat.  We are all feeling a bit hungrier, but hopefully will adapt soon.  Anything prepared ahead of time costs extra (bread, etc), so it's back to cooking from scratch.  Shopping is fun, too, as you need to visit several shops/markets to find the best prices on things. It's a good learning curve.

Small tasks (like repairing a pig pen) that would be so easy at home, take extra time here because the cost of the wood and finding the right tools.  It's amazing what is taken for granted, isn't it? Oh well, this is Africa (TIA).

We are taking a crash course in "missionary survival" and "running an orphanage 101".  I think I am learning a bit about Kigali and can (maybe) find my way around . . .with a good map.  It's a start.  Learning the ins and outs of running the home feels overwhelming, but Kim and the teens are learning right along side, so it helps tremendously.  Only a couple more days of training and the former director leaves.  Wow!  Thankfully, we can do ALL things through Christ who gives us strength!!

We are seeing small miracles daily.  For example, the missing crate (that is probably unlabelled) is supposed to have arrived in Kigali!  As well, I just found out I can get the birth certificates needed (ours were rejected) shipped right here--for a big price;).  Even the fine threads of communication are being woven between us and the staff here.  

These differences are good, they are expected and they are welcome.  When we chose to step out in faith, we knew that everything familiar would be stripped away and we would be brought on a journey of relying on God in an entirely new way.  It is different, it is good!