Blog at the bottom, after the pictures :-)  Thanks again for the encouragement and blog comments and prayers.

 

Each time we enter someone’s home, village, or church, we are greeted with a smile and “You’re Welcome”. At first, it takes you by surprise – why would they say that? What did I do?

In English, we say “you’re welcome” after someone first says “thank you.” We hand someone an ice cream cone, and with a polite nod they quickly say “thank you.” We respond by acknowledging their politeness — “you’re welcome.” It is synonymous with “it’s my pleasure,” “sure thing,” or “no-problemo.” It is an expression that comes from old English, and over the centuries, has been reduced to a robotic response.

But here in Africa, “you’re welcome” is a statement from the heart. It comes from deeply rooted tradition, part of the culture of Africa, a reflection of an ancient ethos of hospitality. When spoken to you, it means you are accepted, warmly welcomed, recognized. Whether from an elderly village chief or a young school teacher, it transforms the interaction. You will be, and are, welcomed. It is remarkable that such a simple greeting can reflect so much.

A broad smile and an openness to receive another can cross any barrier, any ocean, mountain range, or language. Our walls can be dissolved.

Every time I travel, I learn many things about myself and about the rich wonders of this world. For many, it is hard to imagine walking along a dusty road in Africa, being so exposed – a tall foreigner with milky pale and dripping wet skin – everyone staring, everyone wondering why you are here. But walking among the ruddy mud huts, with scrawny goats and dirt-covered pigs scurrying across the path is not something to fear. If we can shed our false pride, the dishonest haughtiness brought by western riches, we can become students, and learn from our new friends.

Thank you Africa for welcoming us. Teach us your smile. Teach us your passion for Christ. Teach us warmth, dancing, hospitality, and new songs. We are your pupils. Africa, when I return home, remind me to be welcoming. Encourage me to accept others as I have been accepted, to cross barriers by adjusting the posture of my heart.