I am so thankful to be here in Kenya. It is a privilege to experience the Kenyan culture. I have been struck by how relational the people are. Relationships take a higher priority than getting things accomplished.
Here is an example from the week: one morning, when we arrived at Beacon of Hope, I left my water bottle in the van, and I grew extremely thirsty. I asked someone working in Beacon's clinic if there was any bottled water available. Immediately, Jane Wathome, Beacon's founder and director, volunteered to take me to the van. Jane has many responsibilities, yet she was willing to give me her time. We talked for about an hour about her vision as the founder. I at one point said that I was sure that she had a lot to do now, but she reassured me that our time together was very important to her.
I had a similar experience when talking with Elizabeth, the Academy's head teacher. She was very willing to answer my many questions about our sponsored child. As we spoke, I realized that many Kenyans are materially poor, while many Americans are relationally poor.
Here is one more example. Today was graduation at the university where we are staying. There were 95 graduates, and when I made a comment to a board member (also staying at the guesthouse) about how many chairs were set up for the ceremony, I was told that sometimes whole villages show up to support the graduate. Could you imagine your whole neighborhood showing up for your special day?
The question I am asking myself is, how do I become more relational in a busy society? Am I too busy? Why am I so busy, and why are so many others around me the same way? Is my identity based in what I am getting done? What if I got less accomplished but had more time to enjoy other people?
I do not have any answers. All I know is that the relationships I've developed this week with Kenyans and my team members have brought me great joy.
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