I love the sense of community here. Rather than an independent, individualistic society we are used to, it is everyone out for everyone. They make it a point to know everyone and what is going on in their lives.
It’s considered rude if you don’t greet people. Sometimes it takes us an extra hour to get somewhere. A quick “Habari” or “Shikamuu” will do, but more times than not it’s the extended greeting.
“Hello, how are you? I’m fine thanks. We are going to visit a friend. Where are you going? Thank you for inviting us to your house, but we can’t right now. Yes, maybe another day. Thank you for feeling sorry for me that I have to walk with a bag on my back. I’m sorry that you have to walk up the mountain with a huge thing of bananas on your head. My mother is good, how is yours? My father is good as well, and yours? Yes, I will tell them you said hello. Thank you, safari njema.” All this while holding your hand.
I can only imagine if you greeted someone to this extent in the States. “Dude let go of my hand, I was going in for a handshake, why are you still holding it? I’m fine, you don’t even know my mom, so why are you asking about her?”
I’m constantly surprised by the generosity and sincerity of the people. Serving others is an honor, not a chore. Imagine if you made less than a dollar a day, on a good day, could barley afford to support yourself, let alone your 3 kids, mother and father, would you give all that you have to a complete stranger? Would you be honored to serve them? It’s the strong sense of community that holds everything together.
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kerri, your photos amaze me… you are so talented!
wow.
I agree with my Josh, that last picture yanked on my heart. Yah we are a bunch of silly selfish gooses over here in the states…
Keri-
I love the smile you captured on the little boys face laboring away in the fields. Thanks for sharing & keep up the amazing work…..
Keri- You are amazing! We always knew you were special and you have definetly stepped outside of our small little comunity to give of yourself. We are so proud of you. Fabulous photos- keep on clickin’
All of you are doing awesome work. go with GOD. It’s all for HIS GLORY! amen.
tell my girl I LOVE HER! you kids are doing great thing. keep up the good work. all of the pictures and writings of the team are awesome. praise god. Marlene.
Keri,
Just had a visit with your mom. She is so proud of you and your talents and passion. Since I have known your mom for , ahem, 45 years now! I feel I am qualified to say, “apples don’t fall far from the tree”. You have inherited her love of travel and adventurous spirit. Your photos are exceptional. Keep up the fabulous work.
Sincerely, Kathy Lay
pole sana Megan for breaking your leg.GOD will award you for the nice job you are doing.Rombo is my home but now Im In NH-USA for my masters studies.I miss my home(Rombo) and my country(Tanzania).