We said goodbye to Benin yesterday. It all felt a little surreal. It seems the 3 month mark is when you've actually got some things figured out. Good thing we left just after this discovery.
Our last week was filled with memorable highlights. The congregation suddenly realized we were leaving and felt the need to feed us for our long journey. Many a night was spent dining at a brother or sisters house, and even joined in one familie's worship night. The family study extended until 10 pm. It had the hopes of lasting longer, but Katie being the shy, patient person she is spoke up and said she was ready to eat. Hats off to their kids who were ready to continue past 10 pm, as is their usual habit.
We also had a small dinner party at our apartment. We tried to cook as close to the African cuisine as possible. As much as they appreciated our hospitality, several Africans were spied putting their food onto their friends plate. One young brother who is not picky, ended up eating 3 peoples' meals. We asked him if he like it, and reluctantly he gave his honest answer. Fortunately , this difference in taste did not inhibit us from enjoying the evening.
The grande finale of our 3 month stay was the Saturday before we left. Our congregation rented a very posh garden called les jardin des plantes to throw us a going away party. The evening include a schedule of events: More food than could be eaten, professinal pictures with every variation possible (smile), and the big moment of presenting our gifts. The other surprise was that we had to make a speech, which of course brought no end of joy to the both of us (and when I say joy, I mean heart palpatations). Many words of encouragement were exchanged and the love of the Oganla congregation was truly felt. Our time here in Benin has only strengthened our appreciation for the vastness of our spiritual family. It's amazing to have traveled so far, and yet felt so personally cared for and loved.
.....Off to Recreate in India
Rebecca and Katie
Our last week was filled with memorable highlights. The congregation suddenly realized we were leaving and felt the need to feed us for our long journey. Many a night was spent dining at a brother or sisters house, and even joined in one familie's worship night. The family study extended until 10 pm. It had the hopes of lasting longer, but Katie being the shy, patient person she is spoke up and said she was ready to eat. Hats off to their kids who were ready to continue past 10 pm, as is their usual habit.
We also had a small dinner party at our apartment. We tried to cook as close to the African cuisine as possible. As much as they appreciated our hospitality, several Africans were spied putting their food onto their friends plate. One young brother who is not picky, ended up eating 3 peoples' meals. We asked him if he like it, and reluctantly he gave his honest answer. Fortunately , this difference in taste did not inhibit us from enjoying the evening.
The grande finale of our 3 month stay was the Saturday before we left. Our congregation rented a very posh garden called les jardin des plantes to throw us a going away party. The evening include a schedule of events: More food than could be eaten, professinal pictures with every variation possible (smile), and the big moment of presenting our gifts. The other surprise was that we had to make a speech, which of course brought no end of joy to the both of us (and when I say joy, I mean heart palpatations). Many words of encouragement were exchanged and the love of the Oganla congregation was truly felt. Our time here in Benin has only strengthened our appreciation for the vastness of our spiritual family. It's amazing to have traveled so far, and yet felt so personally cared for and loved.
.....Off to Recreate in India
Rebecca and Katie
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| Au revoir |
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