Christmas Fever...
It is like the people here in Blantyre, Malawi were told just yesterday that Christmas will fall tomorrow, Thursday. There are long queues in the banking halls, autoteller machines, the shops and streets. I felt chocked and out of place; I quickly left the throngs and I'm now on my way home.
Earlier today, I enjoyed a surprise visit by my younger brother Eddie(he comes right after me). We played guitars and chatted. He uttered many precious things. Eddie has matured beyond recognition. But maybe it could be because he has gone through alot this year. He lost his job and had family problems. Eddie said he realised how valuable family is during his trials and tribulations. He continues to be a kindly and sweet soul and praises the Lord through an acapella choir at his church. What a precious brother!
I wish you a blessed Christmas and a great 2009. I don't know what the year holds for me, but I trust God that as I finish my course the Lord will make a way for me in all areas that hold uncertainities. God is faithful!
Home again...
Thanks be to God for I safely made it back home in Malawi on the 27th of November. I found that a close relative (granny's brother) had died as I left Norway on 25th November, but the family had elected not to tell me until I reached my house, washed, eaten and rested. I appreciated the gesture. Otherwise the trip was great, save for one moment when the plane seemed to be crashing 30 minutes after take-off in Tromso, Norway. There was sudden loss of height and violent shaking...I was really scared!
In the UK I felt good to hear the British accents again, experience the warmer weather and see my friends in Reading.
It is wonderful to be back at my church and be with friends and relatives.
Sometimes it is like I'm dreaming because of the great distance I travelled and I had given up that I would be home for Christmas this year.
With the Christmas season around, we have had fun at church including games and special presentations by families.
The rains are falling heavily and the maize crop is flourishing.
What fun to eat mangoes, munch ngumbi (flying ants)drink thobwa (local soft drink) and listen to the crows and other birds at 4.30am as day breaks!!
Sadly though some friends seem to have moved on in my absence; it is abit hard to chat like before and sometimes I feel isolated. Also there have been terrible stuff involving some people I know very well and all I can say is "Lord, God, have mercy".
I wish you a merry Christmas and a blessed 2009.
