African Time

I hope that all is well. Today feels as if it has been a busy day, but yet we didn't do much. We spent the morning hanging out before going to the primary school. I have gotten a lot of readying done, which has been pretty enjoyable. I finished the "Follow Me" book by David Platt, and I loved it.It has some really solid points. It made me think a lot about my life though, and about how important my faith is, and more important, showing my faith to others. I am curious to continue to work on this, but to see how my faith grows as well. 

Anyways…. back to what actually happened today…. I had the opportunity to teach the same kiddos from class last  Monday. Last week we talked about loving your neighbors, and this week we talked about giving thanks for the various things in our lives. I was once again moved by the answers my students provided. When originally thinking about what I give thanks for, I came up with a pretty basic list. Once I started to ask the 5th graders what they gave thanks for in their lives, I was speechless. Many said that they were thankful for compassion that people have given them, one student mentioned that she is so thankful that she has been saved through Christ. Another mentioned that he gives thanks in his life for mercy and forgiveness. These are all 5th graders, and they mentioned things that I wouldn't have automatically listed off if someone were to ask me what I was thankful for. Day by day, these beautiful children teach me more about life, and cause me to realize the things I really am grateful and thankful for. It reminds me of the phrases of having "child-like" faith. I know understand that phrase, and what it can really mean for me in my life and my own personal faith journey.

My wonderful 5th grade class and their teacher :)

After an amazing morning with those 5th graders, we had a fun time at the tech school. While we were there, we worked on our debating for the first hour and a half. They wanted to debate about 1) equality of education between a husband and a wife in a relationship and 2)dating in high school. Man…. I was blown away by their ability to come up with reasonings for both sides, and loved the way that they were able to persuade others through their words, even if they were arguing a side they didn't agree with. For the next portion, Erica and I worked on music with a small group. It was amazing to see and hear about why music was important to each individual. This trip has made me think a lot about the power music has. I came to a country where English isn't their first language and where weather in the 70's is cold, but one thing will always connect us;music is that thing. Rhythm, melodies, and the emotion behind music is universal, along with the reason why music is important. I love that even if I think 70's is perfect weather, I can still bond and agree with someone about music. I LOVE that there will always be that connection. 

I also love that Rwanda has taught me that "African Time," which means being a bit late, is totally ok. Sometimes in those moments when the bus driver is 45 minutes late, you can have amazing conversations, make life long memories, and connect with a person on a different level. Although I love timeliness and structure, I am starting to get use to "African Time" and the experiences I have gained through it. 

Tomorrow, although very time structured, will be very exciting as we visit 2 NGOs in the morning, and then continue with our teaching. I can't wait to talk to all of you soon!

With love,

Leah