It’s always a delight to visit friends across the border; to just be with them and catch up on the family and town news. Sometimes we hear of joys, like a new baby or marriage, sometimes we hear sad news, like someone passing away or someone getting sick. It is so good to be able to tell bible stories when we visit, to talk about how much God loves us and to pray with these friends.
Often we come upon them in the midst of their everyday tasks, whether it be cooking over an open fire or pounding grain in a wooden mortar and pestle, oftentimes with a wee child on their back or hip. Their everyday would be hard for us, but it is normal for them. In the midst of what we see as onerous work and poverty, they are content because it is what they know.
Last week it was wonderful to see my good friend H’s youngest daughter, G, who I hadn’t seen for about 2 years. When she came into her mom’s house, she jumped on me with a bearhug, calling out my name as I called out hers. This is joy, in the midst of a culture that doesn’t show emotion outwardly if they can help it!
