A friend of mine from the States sent me this article
I read it and was again, touched by the perseverance of the people here. One thing I am finding here- which is disturbing, yet awakening, is how close death is to EVERYONE here. I've heard of many since I have come- of people close to those I am getting to know. Plus, there's the history- The women I work with survived the genocide, yet lost family members; our guard at the house is a 23 year old boy who lost his parents and sister in the genocide when he was 6 or 7- and he wandered the streets for years... I take for granted how protected we are in the states- how when people get sick, or hurt, we go to the doctor- it's often a temporary condition. Here- you don't see many elderly... I have been thankful for God's protective shield many times here in various situations...
Stories like this one, I read and remember the resilience of these people. Many times it can be discouraging not to have open casual conversation with them due to the language barrier, yet, their eyes show their history- their work ethic shows their determination- their love of God shows their hope---- it's truly amazing. And they sure are right about the roads around here!
Another glimpse into the story of Rwandan cyclists can be found here
4 comments:
Each of your posts bring those of us in a much more comfortable part of the world some needed discomfort. Thank you for that, and I hope you feel us there with you. Your strength (and theirs) is inspiring.
Rachel- Thank you for the encouragement for me to look beyond my daily 'discomforts'. These people are truely inspiring, as are you for seeing God in everything!
Wow Rachel.I'm so happy to connect with you and your experience.What amazing people and countryside.I know....yet I don't know...thank you for helping me to livewideawake!
Hey! Rachel, took my computer to bed with me last night and read this post but fell asleep before I could comment. Funny, how reading it again, speaks to me even more. Last night my attitude was of awe of this young man's perseverance and how owning this bike has blessed him. This morning, I thought about his knees and prayed that the Lord would make them strong and that they would be like those of Philip who ran up to the chariot to ask the eunuch if he understood what he was reading (I think Philip had to have been running fast to catch up to chariot, ask a question, wait for an answer and then be invited to enter the chariot :) Also, we have three bikes in our garage, THREE, how are these bikes being used, hmmm. Much to think about but even more to be doing for Jesus. Love and joy! Raquel
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