A day in Eldoret

Today was our first opportunity to truly experience Kenya. In some ways, it defies words. It has to be seen, tasted and felt. We spent the day wandering through Eldoret in small groups with host teens from the local churches. They were so kind and helpful. It was beautiful to see our teenagers bonding with local kids. The boys played soccer, the girls jumped rope and everyone was laughing and smiling. I think this is the reason God brought us here. These relationships can bless and change our lives. The teens showed us the post office, butcheries, stores, markets, funeral parlor, hospital, and we wandered through town. We were seriously puzzled by rocks sold in little bags pregnant women ate to get more iron. I was the most overwhelmed by visiting the hospital. It was crowded, dirty, and filled with broken and sick people. If nothing else will, the hospital will make you grateful for the "easy" life in America. My favorite place was the open market. It was crowded, loud but full of beautiful fruit, vegetables, strange spices, tiny bananas, fish, grains and people. The children, especially, are beautiful. The dark, red dirt is wonderful. It causes all trails and paths to look inviting.