On Wednesday, we went to the prayer circle held at the chapel on the hospital compound. The pastor of the church leads the leaders of the hospital in a short 30 minute prayer session each morning to prepare us for the day. Today the message was very suiting for me especially. The message was about Gods mercy. That he helps us through overwhelming or difficult situations to show us that he loves us and that he is capable of doing it. With that, we know we can't trust in him to take care of us. This message really hit home especially since everything here is overwhelming. All I need to do us trust that God will take care of me. And he truly has so far. On Friday I was able to call my parents and Kyle. Each of them asked how I was doing. Honestly, I can't believe how well I am doing. I truly believe God has given me courage, strength and also Greg and Alison to make it through this culture shock to say the least. I could have never d it would be this way, but am overjoyed it is!
I am sad that I had to say goodbye to everyone at the hospital on Friday. On Monday afternoon Greg and I fly to Galmi. It was so much fun here and I will truly miss it. Somila, I sent a picture earlier this week, is the therapist who works at the PT clinic at the compound. He is not licensed yet because right now he cannot afford it, but loves helping people! He is also very smart! Anyway, each day, before lunch, he would give us a Hausa lesson, Alison, Greg and I have really learned a lot from him. In return for the lessons we would teach Somila some PT techniques.
On Friday we only worked a half day and were able to go into Maradi, a big town near by, to go to the market. They only had a little bit of shopping but it was fun to see the town. On the way back we got to meet Ayouba, our driver who is the most thorough and handy guy ever, let us meet his family. He invited us into his home and we met his
Mother, wife and one of two daughters. His little 2 year old was afraid of us because we are white. She is adorable though! It was such an honor to be invited into his home and see a real authentic home made African home.
Today, Alison, Greg and I drove to Zinder with Ayouba of course. Zinder is about 3 hours away and is a region with a very boulderesque (not a real word I know) landscape. It was really cool to see yet another part of the country! We got to meet with a couple of Greg's friends who have a church/prayer room attached to their home. We all thought it was hilarious because the guy put loud speakers on his roof to announce his prayer time to combat the local Mosques call to prayer. It was pretty funny! His wife made delicious cookies that I had 3 of but could have for sure eaten at least 100 more. We will try to get the recipe!
We also got to tour the Sultan of Zinders palace. It was really cool! They took us up on the roof and you could see the entire city! I have some awesome pictures. We also walked around the village where a street performer half scared us and half entertained us. He was making noises/music with knives sliding around on his skin.... That is a terrible description but honestly it was weird. I have a video I will upload when I get back and have better Internet!
Our three hour drive home was tiring but it feels good to be back. We are going to church tomorrow at 9 and then riding camels in the afternoon! Can't wait!
Miss all of you!
Love,
Kaitlin
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