I’m officially falling in love.
There are no other words to describe how I feel about the Basotho people. Sure, at first it was awkward, too many differences between us and too many uncomfortable lulls in the conversation. Like a first date, it was full of hopeful expectation and, yet, lacking in confidence.
Somewhere between Sunday and Monday, however, we moved past all the introductions and "how do you do’s" and became, well, friends. On Sunday we worshipped together for well over 2 hours in African Church. Even Masee did not let AIDS and hopelessness keep her from our date. She walked all the way from her home to the church building just so we could do a little dancing and singing at New Hope In Jesus Fellowship. Though it was her first time, she smiled when she said it won’t be her last.
This morning (Monday) we spent three hours playing cards, sipping tea and sharing life with Julia, Maria, Liana, Caroline, and Amanda (side note: though each child is given a tribal name at birth, they also use American-like names, which we appreciate!). We had a ridiculously good time, laughing and sharing like old friends.
In fact, I would say the thirteen of us and our Basotho neighbors are now more than friends. Putsi and Liana (Masee’s mom and neighbor) said just today, "We are family." My heart literally sings as I type those three words! I feel so full–so completely speechless–my chest might just burst from the fullness of my heart.
As several members of our group mentioned, the only cloud which threatened to overshadow the joy of today was the knowledge that Saturday is coming. The day we will leave. As we sat in Putsi’s home, sharing life stories and the reality of a God who loves us, the thought of leaving these dear families occurred to me, rallying a lump in my throat. I am smitten. How will I ever be able to say good-bye?
Joy won the moment, however, as we refused to allow what is bound to come spoil today. At least for now. Saturday is coming, but for today there is still much loving and living to be done. And a few more family memories to be made.
Hey Michele and Troy….thanks for sharing your story of what God is doing in an amazing part of the world…it’s life-changing isn’t it! Your reflection on the worship experience helps us picture our future in Heaven…every tribe, tongue and nation, with no goodbyes…
I love re-seeing Africa through your eyes. I recall (as a teenager) being overwhelmed by the “bigness” of our God. That he was the same God in Africa, to my new friends, as he is everywhere. That he loves his children all the same. That his heart breaks at all of our suffering. That their will be JOY in the morning!
Thanks for your diligent and eloquent writing. I do not envy you the parting you will have on Saturday. 🙁 But, eternity takes on a whole new light, doesn’t it? 🙂
Michele! I am so glad you guys are having such an amazing time. I hope to see more pics when you guys return. We will keep you in our prayers.
Michele,
I can only say … Simply amazing. Thank you for sharing your journey with us. You will be forever changed, I know. Perspective changes things, doesn’t it? But God IS GOOD, ALL the time!
Heartwarming. Looks like it’s cold there with your caps on.
Thank you so much for your wonderful blog. We love being able to see what you are all doing each day. Please tell Tara that we miss her, but are so happy to see all that she is getting to experience. You are a wonderful writer!!! Thanks, Tammy
Thank you for keeping us “in the moment” of your journey. What you share brings tears to my eyes. You are truly making “family” there with other children of God. How amazing is that?!? What an honor. Spread His love while you’re there for those of us that aren’t. God truly is an amazing, awesome God!