thanksgiving and things

Rumor has it that the only place to find turkey on Thanksgiving in Sierra Leone is at the US Embassy. However, I did not go there. So my Thanksgiving meal consisted of a chicken wrap thing and chips. It was good-it wasn't rice, but it wasn't turkey. I must say, though, that it was by far the most thank-ful Thanksgiving I've ever had. We (Eric, Jeremy, Katie, Camie, Faye, and myself) decided to go out to eat by the beach and then hang out at the beach. For dinner we went to one of the restaurants at Family Kingdom. Family Kingdom is a big resort where wealthy people (mostly white) stay when they are in Sierra Leone. After dinner we wanted to talk about what we're thankful for with eachother on the beach. On the beach we saw Joseph and asked him to join us. Joseph strolls the beach almost every day selling culture (bracelets, necklaces, rings, etc.). He uses crutches because his right leg is crippled. Joseph has one of my favorite smiles in Sierra Leone. I don't know why but I swear God gave all the best smiles to Sierra Leoneans.

As we sat on the beach talking with Joseph, Jesus showed up and to sit with us. His presence was amazing. I cannot think of a time when I have felt so at peace. We went around the circle and each shared what we were thankful for in Krio so Joseph could understand. It was beautiful-it was the first time in a long time that I felt like everyone felt comfortable enough to let their gaurd down and speak freely. If it were up to me, I'd have the rest of my Thanksgivings on a beach. The beach is such a great place to reflect because even though there were loud cars passing on the road, the sound of the waves crashing on the beach makes it all so peacful. I can't explain the joy and the peace that were present that evening.
Today I'm going to a friends wedding. I'm really excited to get to see a Sierra Leonean wedding. Her name is Annie. She and her sister and mom live very close to our house and I pass her every morning on my way to town. They have been such a blessing and I can't wait to see her smiling face today. Two days ago I came to greet Annie and she was obviously upset. Her mom explained to me that someone had borrowed money from them and had disappeared. So they were 400,000 leones short of the final payment on her wedding dress and the fees for church and reception place. Just another reminder that if you want to keep your friends, you should never loan them money (a Sierra Leonean saying). Although, most Sierra Leoneans gladly loan money to their friends and aquaintances. They understand what it means to hold their money in an open hand-something we Americans need to practice more often.

I hope you all had wonderful Thanksgivings. I am praying for you and I look forward to seeing you again in three weeks. Please continue to pray that I will be obedient to God's call for me here and for those that I am working with. I can't wait til I can show you pictures and tell you stories about all my amazing friends! Love you!
Haley