Tuesday, July 9, 2013

Not Quite My Final Thoughts on Kenya

Hard to believe that it was only two months ago that I was in Kenya. Where has the time gone and what final inspiration should I leave with you as I move on to other things to blog about?

1) I don't think many in Kenya have high blood pressure. They truly live by the saying of "hakuna matata" - no worries. I am reading a book, "All That You Can't Leave Behind: a rookie missionary's life in Africa". The book is written in journal-format, so each day covers not only what is happening in his life, but random thoughts on life in Kenya. He explained in one entry that this attitude of being so laid-back is what helps to keep Kenya in poverty. When things are going well - there are enough rains and crops are growing, instead of thinking of ways to conserve this water for the drought that will surely come, they just enjoy the prosperity while they have it, not thinking much about the inevitable return to poverty.

2) They don't really drive on the wrong side of the road. They drive on the side of the road which is opposite of the side we drive on here in America. So why, as soon as I got there, was I comfortable with riding on the left side of the road. And when I came home after only two weeks, it felt wrong to drive on the right side of the road. Is it because I am right-brained or left-brained or just need a new brain?

3) I haven't figured out their school system. The government offers free education through elementary school. So why were a lot of people talking about school fees? I know they have to buy their own uniforms and books, but what were these extra fees? I think that there are a lot of private schools which charge fees, but these schools didn't look that much better than the public schools. I really need to get my daughter to clarify that for me.

4) You can buy anything at the Nakumatt. Sometimes it will be a lot cheaper than in the US, sometimes it will cost more. (You cannot be too careful with your digestive health when you are traveling.)

5) Everyone has cellphones. At first that seems like such a luxury, especially when food, clothing and housing seem to be lacking. But a lot of people do business that way. They need to stay in touch to make any money. The example that immediately comes to mind is anyone who supplies any sort of transportation for hire.


6) I think that I have more thoughts, so this will be continued next time…

2 comments:

Susan Marlene said...

Hi Chris, Wow this is informative. We get so locked into Americanized thinking that it's a shockeroo when we hear a totally different rationale. I may just mention your blog when we are at Pens this morning! :) Yes...I believe I will!!

Chris Loehmer Kincaid said...

And if you noticed the title, Sue, these aren't my final thoughts!