Joshua 3:4 “Then you will know which way to go, since you have never been this way before.”

Story for today: We found/killed a black mama yesterday morning. Not me personally, but a few of the girls. They were going for an early morning walk and one of the girls nearly stepped on it. We came to find out later that its one of the deadliest snakes in the world. After finding out what kind of snake it was, the situation became a little more real for everyone. And because of the expense, we also have no anti-venom here. A slightly scary thought. However, I firmly believe God’s protection is around us here. He has us here for a purpose, and that will be fulfilled no matter what. I don’t tell you this to worry you because we are not worried ourselves. I just ask for continued prayer.

On Monday, we went to the market for the first time. This was an incredible and slightly overwhelming experience. It was incredible because I got a picture of another part of Zambia, other than the airport and the beautiful guest house where we are 

living. It was my first time engulfed in the culture since I have been here. We are the only white people. Well, we aren’t but we are. There are a handful of others, including the missionaries David and Beth from the states, but there are very few and far between. I had heard that we would be stared at when going to the market. I guess I just had no idea what it would feel like to have everyone watching every move I make. To know what cultural ideas people have of Americans, and to be treated according to those stereotypes. People have many ideas of how Americans act, what we have, and what we are willing to do. So they watch us. So its not so much that its uncomfortable as it is something that you have to get used to. The rest of the week has been spent in classes and presentations. It has been a long and exhausting week, but also a time of bonding and building relationships. And I know it will continue to be. I am SO excited about my classes and what community work we will be doing (which I will explain more later). But something my professor said in class this week says exactly how I feel…

This semester is not about knowing and doing, its about being.

This made my heart jump. This is nursing to me. BEING. Being the hands and feet of Jesus to their needs, whatever those may be. Community health nursing is not so much about technical skills and textbook details as it is about the immediate needs of those you are caring for. Giving them food because they haven’t anything to eat. Talking to them because they need someone who cares. Holding a child who has been neglected or abused or has HIV. Being whatever they need. This excites me so much!

Ok - As promised, here are some photos:

This one is of our dorm - my bed is the second from the last on the left.

Rachel, Haley and I outside the guest house