La vie sans les tremblements des terres....

Life without the earthquakes...Ok to say that is a little presumptuous. And there was an aftershock last night right before I went to bed, but for the most part I'm no longer thinking about planning escape routes wherever I am. So I guess thats progress.

Yesterday was a computer-less day, and I loved every minute of it. I went again to the feeding center in Buhoze, where 70 kids in the risk zone (under 5) are fed 6 days a week. This time we weighed and measured the kids to get a good idea of their progress. I measured each child's upper arm; the nurses who were with me might know the appropriate terminology. All I know is that it provides a good estimate of their malnutrition, or hopefully lack thereof. I love returning to the feeding center and recognizing many of the beautiful children. While this is not necessarily related to FHI (yet), it is such an honor to be able to be a part of the work.

After the trip in the morning, I was shipped out to a field site maybe 1 1/2 hours away with $6500 for a cash exchange. After a short conversation and the signing of a good receiving note, I was on my way back to Bukavu. Literally the bush is worlds apart from the city. I can honestly say I can't help but bust out a smile every time a child screams "Muzungu!" It's almost a comfort now.

Yesterday, I also had a long conversation with Israel, our chauffeur/token evangelist. I was expressing my constant struggle with reconciling the beauty of God's people and His creation with the suffering that is rampant everywhere I turn. He encouraged me once again to walk by faith and have confidence that Christ is at work, even when I don't see the fruit of my labor. God's promises will be fulfilled without me. A harsh blow to my ego, but its reality.

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst

for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.