Tumsifu Yesu Kristu

I just finished reading a book called "White Man Walking" by Ward Brehm. It is a fantastic story about one Minnesotans experiece in Africa. In one part of the book her recalls vivid pictures/memories from Africa: "The slowness of pace, and the absence of distractions, which allow Gods presence to be felt in new and powerful ways." That is probably the #1 reason I felt drawn back to Africa. In America it is so easy to get wrapped up in the crazy-ness of everyday life. You can go through an entire day without having a meaningful conversation with someone or without connecting to a stanger.

The past two days I have been able to have numerous meaningful converstions with people and I have connected with many strangers. Over 85% of my day yesterday was spent sitting outside on the porch with James, Fr. Ndisi, Br. Msomi and Br. Salvatori just talking. We talked about simple things, such as the whether patterns in Sumbawanga (it's the rainy season right now). We also had deep, meaningful converstaions, for example about the importance of trusting in God. We talked about the cultural differences between Africa and America, and had a 2 hour long converstaion after lunch about the education system here in Tanzania.

James, Fr. Ndisi and I walked about 20 minutes away to meet another preist yesterday as well. We sat outside, drank colas from a glass bottle, and talked. It was wonderful. I love being able to connect with the people here. I wish it was more like this in America. It's so easy to fall into the habbit of turning on the tv or the video game. I love not having those distractions. It makes life simpler.

If the next 6 months consisted of teaching during the day and sitting around talking with people in the evenings, I would be 100% satisified. I am constantly overwhelmed with the humbleness of the Tanzanian Monks. They are so welcoming and kind.

My swahili is coming along ok! I think I'll be able to pick it up. I've been studying quite a bit so far. But most of what I'm learning is coming from the monks and James. According to James, I already know the most important phrase in Swahili. It's a greeting: Tumsifu yesu kristu(May Jesus Christ be with you). The response is Millele Amina (forever and ever). James says that if I remember that phrase, I will be fine anywhere! :)

Tomorrow we leave for Sumbawanga, should be quite a journey. 2 full days of riding in bus, then a car. Once I get there Fr. Ndisi (aka Fr. Revocatus) has many plans for me to travel, learn swahili, and meet the bishop. I think James will be able to join me for most of it (even though he starts teaching again on Monday).

Well, time is up! Please keep up the comments and emails! I love reading them! Tu sifu Jesu Christu!!