As I laid in bed during my last night in Ethiopia, I tried to digest (along with the injera!) all that I had seen, heard and experienced over the past few days. It was very difficult to process everything - and I felt overwhelmed with all sorts of emotions. Life is just so hard for these people and for so many, even their basic needs aren't being met. There are SO many people living in deplorable conditions unlike anything I had ever seen (or even imagined possible) before. And yet the people had a dignity about them. They were friendly, hospitable and happy. (Not to mention beautiful - Ethiopians must be the most attractive people on the face of the earth!) Yet, despite the challenges poverty brings, I never heard any arguing, complaining or children whining and crying. Instead I saw deep faith in, love for and reliance upon God. The Ethiopian people have a deep and real relationship with God and it is a humbling experience to see what an integral part He has in every aspect of their lives. This is probably the most important lesson I learned during my time here and one I hope I can emulate. I will miss Ethiopia and hope I can return someday.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Reflections on Ethiopia
As I laid in bed during my last night in Ethiopia, I tried to digest (along with the injera!) all that I had seen, heard and experienced over the past few days. It was very difficult to process everything - and I felt overwhelmed with all sorts of emotions. Life is just so hard for these people and for so many, even their basic needs aren't being met. There are SO many people living in deplorable conditions unlike anything I had ever seen (or even imagined possible) before. And yet the people had a dignity about them. They were friendly, hospitable and happy. (Not to mention beautiful - Ethiopians must be the most attractive people on the face of the earth!) Yet, despite the challenges poverty brings, I never heard any arguing, complaining or children whining and crying. Instead I saw deep faith in, love for and reliance upon God. The Ethiopian people have a deep and real relationship with God and it is a humbling experience to see what an integral part He has in every aspect of their lives. This is probably the most important lesson I learned during my time here and one I hope I can emulate. I will miss Ethiopia and hope I can return someday.
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