I corrupted two work colleagues into abandoning what remained of today's responsibilities, and we set off for the 60 kilometer/ 37 mile journey.
Normally, excursions provide the need for me to pretend to be Kenyan in order to get by at a cheaper rate. Today, however my ability to enter depended strictly on my ability to prove I was American. I was not at all prepared for that, and struggled to find a way to prove that I was who I said I was, other than my all too obvious accent. The guard was initially refusing us, stating we didn't have an appointment. The rules on visiting Sarah had recently changed as security had been heightened with recent events in Kenya. Before long, one of my top ten favorite things about Kenya resurfaced, and the rules could be changed if I was American.
> The first and only turkey I saw in Kenya<
>Paul, Sarah, and Staula<
I allow Staula, Paul, and Sarah to talk in Luo for some time. I then asked her a few questions such as where she was when Obama won the first time. She exclaimed that she was right here, and then she was flown to the US for the inauguration. I asked how she liked/ didn't like America. She stated it was too cold, she spent several minutes detailing how all the gloves, scarves, hats, and coat were insufficient barriers to the cold. When I asked her if President Obama spoke Luo, I only asked hoping I could "one up" Obama with my few Luo words. Sadly, my illusions of being Olivia Pope and holding anything over the President of the United States were quickly vanquished as she told me that he speaks Luo. She also stated that his children speak a bit of Luo and always greet her with those words. She said that Barack had insisted on his wife and kids learning his family's mother tongue.
We exchanged many more questions and conversation, and I solidified that it was one of my favorite moments in Kenya.
I note that they are building a new home on the property and question her about it. She states its not ready yet, they have been building it for three years now. I'm shocked that they have been building for three years, yet relieved because it shows the pace at which things move in Kenya, particularly when I think about the Rescue Center.
I am under no illusions that I am doing something unique here. In reality, it's nice to be reminded that there are many people in this struggle to support orphans and vulnerable children. There are so many people on the ground and abroad, hoping to ensure that the future of Kenya is secured through the upcoming generations.
Support the upcoming generations, donate here: www.stayclassy.org/rescuecenter