GHE East Africa Team Update #4
We finished up our work in the clinic with great success. We had patients where we were able to completely resolve their issue in just one visit and we have had patients where we realized the enormity of the pain and suffering that is in the world. Many patients returned to thank us for help, say goodbye, and ask us to return. We have bonded as a team both in and out of the clinic. We have had a lot of fun, some serious conversations, and been able to help each other grow and process some of the harder things that we have seen.
We came expecting to give to the people of Tanzania and were pleasantly surprised to find out that we received just as much back in return. It was really nice to see that our limited skills could do so much to help people. We were surprised at the impact of human touch and prayer as we were able to overcome the language barrier to show people that we cared. Not only were we able to help decrease their pain, but we were able to connect with many of them on a more personal level and gain their friendship.
We will miss our time at chapel, church services, and Bible study in the village. We loved experiencing the simplicity and joy of our fellow believers in the presence of God. Even though we did not understand the words to all of the songs, the joy that exuded from the faces and souls of those worshipping with us was contagious. It was so neat to see that the Bible study and church services were based in Acts and God’s growing of the early church. It seemed so appropriate and we really feel that God was with us during this trip. From promises we received before the trip through our final day in the clinic, it has been evident that God has gone before us and has been present with us.
We have learned two new phrases: “This is Africa” and “Africa Wins Again.” Below are some examples:
–We had a coconut tree in our back yard fall over unexpectedly and for no apparent reason. (We later learned that it had been eaten by ants from the inside.)
–Our water was off for several days (to the plumbing incident mentioned in the previous post) and we washed dishes “camping-style” as a team.
–We left our house for two hours and came back to an ant infestation.
–We terrified multiple little children who had never seen white people before.
–Our ladies received multiple offers of marriage. Don’t worry parents, the would-be-husbands are happy to move to America.
We are leaving tomorrow morning to begin our long journey home. Please pray for safe travels and time for us to fully process all that we have experienced. Also, snacks and fast food would be welcomed upon our return. =)
