A Little Trip...

Eight days ago, I traveled to Wa which is about two hours away.. I haven't been there for a while and I was looking forward to doing some shopping that I couldn't do in Lawra. I went to Vodafone, to Foka, to the bank, to Melcom (YAY!) and to the market. As I was leaving the market, a big wind and rainstorm started. I quickened my pace because of the rain. If I got to the place where I would meet the tro tro (a run down van used for public transportation) for the ride back to Lawra, I would be able to sit out of the rain. I was almost to my destination, next door to it as a matter of fact. Then, it happened. I slipped on the wet cement and I fell, turning my body, my heavy backpack taking the lead. Immediately, I knew something was wrong with my left arm and shoulder. I was in excruciating pain, pain worse than I had ever felt before. I couldn't move my arm because it hurt too much. I fell in front of a hair dresser's shop. The women came out and helped me up off of the cement and out of the rain. I begged them to find me a ride to the hospital. They wanted me to wait for the driver of the tro tro that would go back to Lawra. I told the no, I needed to go to the hospital NOW! (I was in pain.) So, one of the girls ran out in the rain and got me a ride.

A few minutes later, I arrived at Wa Regional Hospital. The nurses took me and put me in a wheelchair. My only thought was, "Give me something for this pain." They tried to get basic intake information from me before taking me to see the doctor. A five minute wait seemed like five hours. Finally, the doctor sent me to x-ray. I had someone pushing the wheelchair and someone supporting my arm. I hurt so much! The x-ray technician wanted me to stand in a certain position in order to get a proper picture of my shoulder. Oh, I could hardly stand it. I grabbed onto the nurses arm and squeezed it instead of crying out in pain. I am sure he still has marks on his arms from me.

Then, back to the examination room. When we arrived, NO Doctor was there. And, I still didn't receive anything for the pain. I sat down in an upholstered chair and put my feet up and maneuvered my arm to a less painful position. After some time, someone came in to check my x-ray. Praise God, nothing was broken, but my left shoulder was dislocated. (Later I was told the part that was to be in the joint was in my armpit.) Now, I was to be admitted to a ward, then I would be taken to the Theater so my shoulder could be put back in place. On the way to the ward, we stopped to pay for the x-ray. When we arrived, there was more waiting. And then, there was the "trying to get an IV port into a vein" process. After five tries, it still didn't work. They would do it when I got to the Theater.  I was asked several times who had come with me and everyone was surprised that I was by myself. I didn't plan on going to the Regional Hospital when I left home that morning!

We proceeded to the Theater. We were in an entrance-way, sitting, waiting. I was in pain. I asked about pain meds. "they will give you some." Right! Then, I asked if I could lie down. In my mind, that would ease the pain. The medical people agreed to this. YAY! It didn't help much. But, they did get the IV port in. As I was talking to one of the nurses, I fell asleep since the anesthetic was added to the IV. The next thing I knew, I was in another room, without excruciating pain. My shoulder was back in place. I had pain, but it was bearable. There was some numbness, too. I was told that it would eventually go away.

The plan was to admit me so I would stay overnight. Ghanaian hospitals are different from American hospitals. The family provides the food, medicines, sheet/blanket, etc. I was wearing wet clothing because of the rain. I had no one in Wa to take care of me. So, I pleaded with the doctors to allow me to go back to Lawra where there were people who would care for me. They agreed. And, the anesthesiologist even drove me home! 

I thank God for all he blessings that took place on this day. I was in Wa, not Lawra. It was my left shoulder, not my right. It was put back in place. I had a ride home...All things work together for the good of those who love God: those who are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28.

A Husband, a Father and a Spiritual Battleground

 

My church members told me last Sunday (Easter) about a man who was crazy. His wife attends our church with his young twins, a boy and a girl. The people of the church wanted me to visit him, but, since they told me that he is sometimes tied down because of the way he acts, I begged off until Monday. That way, Razak and the pastor would be in Kalsagri and if something happened, they were stronger than me. As it turned out, we didn't go on Monday because the man wasn't home. So, we went today. Not with Razak and the pastor, but, with at least twenty people from the church.

 

"He lives just over there," I was told. Fifteen minutes later, we arrived. We asked permission to visit and it was granted. We were led to a place under a large mango tree where two benches were set out for us. My eyes saw what they never saw before. And, my spirit wept. For there, in front of me, sitting on the ground was a man in a dirty, ripped up green shirt and filthy trousers. But, that wasn't what made me weep. That is almost normal in Kalsagri. What made me weep were the shackles on his wrists and ankles. Ofonso, the person we came to see, was in shackles because he has been harming others. He literally picked up a couple of men and threw them to the ground. I kept praying, "Jesus. Jesus." And, I kept thinking of the Bible stories of Jesus casting out demons. And I kept thinking, "Jesus loves you."

 

Samuel was our spokesperson. He talked with Ofonso and led us in prayer. The women sang. It was a holy time. And, here is the spoiled American (me) thinking, "I wish I could snap a picture." But, it wasn't the time or place. It would have been rude and inappropriate. As we prayed corporately, I wept for this tortured soul. Oh, how Jesus loves him. I prayed against the powers of the evil one. I prayed for his restoration. I prayed that he would be given visions and dreams that he would know personally the Lord and Giver of Life. I prayed that he would answer the knocking at the door of his heart and welcome Jesus inside. I prayed that he would one day live his life for the Lord.

 

After we prayed, Samuel spoke with Ofonso some more. He spoke of grace and mercy and the love of God. As we finished up, we asked if we could visit again in a few weeks. He said, "yes." So, please, I beg you, pray for this man, that God would restore him and give him life. And, that Ofonso will live his life to glorify God.

A Household god

What does this picture look like to you? To me, it looks like a pile of rocks with two sticks standing up in it. To the people who live in the compound where I saw this, it is a "household god" or "family god." This surprised me because I know that the people who live in this compound are Christian, they go to my church. At least some of them are and do.

 

I asked about this "god." I knew that ancestors are very important in this area. This "god" is the "god" of the grandfather of the family. The grandfather has passed and so has everyone of his generation. So, I asked, "If the grandfather is dead, why not destroy the 'god?'" "Oh, Mama, we can't do that." was the response I was given. "Why? I am just a nasapog (white woman), I don't understand." "Because the community will not allow it." "The community? As in the elders of the community?" "Yes, Mama. They will not allow it." "What will happen if your father destroys the 'god?'" "The community will get angry and my father will have to pay some money." "What happens if he doesn't pay?" They will come for him." And so the conversation went on.

 

It is obvious that there is fear involved in removing the idol. There are others inside the house, too. So, are people living for Jesus but, hanging onto their Traditional beliefs? Or are people really afraid to rid their homes of "gods" made out of wood and stone? Please pray for the people of Kalsagri, that fear would give way to the peace of Christ and that people would be willing to stand up for their beliefs. Ghana is a Christian nation. Here, in the Upper West, not so much. May people embrace the One who gave His life so they may be free of such things and live life to the fullest!



Church Meeting

 

Last Saturday, we held a church meeting in Kalsagri. (The above picture is the parking lot!) It was scheduled for 2:00 pm. I did not choose the time. The congregation chose the day and time. I drove out to Kalsagri so I would be at least 30 minutes early. I drove up and down a couple of kilometers of hard road (paved) honked my horn so people would know it was time to come to the meeting. And, at 2:00 there were....zero people there besides me!

 

But, I waited. By 2:10, there were about 15, by 2:30, there were thirty. I thought that was really good for people who have to take care of families and farm in the morning and don't wear watches or own cell phones. (I need to keep that in mind.)

 

After greeting and a prayer, we started the business of the day. I read our latest financial report. It was not very exciting. Only a few people fell asleep during it. Then, on to more important things...what to do with the people farming on our land? Do we allow them to continue? (Yes, until we need the land to build.) What do we give the Bishop as a farewell gift? (A traditional smock.) Who will volunteer to teach the children? (Janet - student, Hagar, Francis, Clarissa, Nicodemus.) Who will serve as Communion Stewards? (Janet - adult - and Yebedaa) Who is taking weekly attendance? (Janet - student, Nicodemus) Will we have a Harvest as a fundraiser this year? (Yes. November 23, 2014) Alex and Winifred have been serving as Financial officers. They agreed to continue. How many have chickens and other fowl? Are you interested in having them inoculated. (Plenty own them and YES, please set up an inoculation time.) What do you want the church to provide during the Harmatan season? (Soap making classes, Bible studies) What would you like our future building project to be? (A larger church)

 

So much was accomplished. There was plenty of discussion and debate. A lot of decisions were made. I pray that God will bless the willingness of these people to lead their church!

A Visit from John

Last Friday morning, I was outside my house early (6:00), taking pictures of the gorgeous sunrise. I was thinking about hopping on my motorcycle (in my Christmas jammies...they were long sleeved and long trousers) to take some pictures along the LawSec road when I saw a young man walking towards me. He was carrying a torch (flashlight) and a small, black book, which looked like it could be a Methodist hymnal, but was really a King James Bible. I greeted him. He told me he was being spiritually attacked, could I help him?



Hmmm...old white woman, young black man, 6:08 in the morning. What to do? I asked his name. "John." "Are you the John I spoke with in Kalsagri?" "Yes." I invited him onto my veranda and we began to talk. I realized I was over my head in this. John had a tormented soul. I didn't know all of the cultural spiritual beliefs and battles, so I called Razak. He would know what to do. He said he was on his way coming. Meanwhile, Fortune, the woman who helps me twice a week arrived. (Good sigh.) I served water and began to prepare tea. Razak arrived and sat with John and talked.

John said that when he tried to sleep, three bears would come to chase after him. He was sure if he was anointed with oil and American water, that this would stop. Razak spoke truth to him. He asked John about his beliefs and what was he doing to prevent these spiritual attacks. So, they talked some more. Razak told him that American water wouldn't help. And, even being anointed wouldn't help if John didn't take some action in this situation. God wasn't like some magical wizard, say and do the "proper" things and all would be well.

After the guys had their tea and talked for about an hour, we prayed. Razak anointed John with oil, asking the LORD to protect John and watch over him and draw John close to Himself. Would you continue to pray for John, too?

A New Opportunity

 

In 2013, an Early Grade Reading Assessment (EGRA) was done here in Ghana. Eight thousand (8,000) second grade students from all over the country were assessed. Both English reading skills and the local language reading skills were tested. (English is the national language.) The results were unbelievable! Overall, not one student could read a primary two level story, 50% could not read a single word of the story, 44% were struggling readers - reading less than 10 words a minute, 4% were able to read with SOME understanding, only 2% could read fluently and understand what they read.

 

Literacy in the local language scored even lower. 86% of the Dagaare speaking students could not read a single word of Dagaare. 10% were struggling readers. 4% were able to read with some understanding. No one could read Dagaare fluently and understand what they read.

 

 

So, as an elementary education teacher, one who has taught reading in the past, the very distant past, I have started to go to the Kindergarten class last week. (There are six more weeks of school this year.) I wanted to evaluate what the children knew. So, I started with letter recognition. The highest score was 10 (ten) out of 26, the lowest was 0 (zero) out of 26. Both of these students were in the KG 2 class...they have completed almost two years of school! (You must keep in mind, most of the parents are illiterate.)

 

For the remainder of this school year, I will work with the Kindergarten students. In September, when the new school year starts, I will work with the lower grades and start reading clubs for the upper grades. And, I will watch and listen to see what God has in store for me! (I will still be taking care of the Kalsagri church, I am not leaving that!)

 

The Making of a Garden, on a Savannah!

For almost two years I have wanted a garden. So, when my friends, Tula & Gary were coming to visit and Gary was planning on planting me a garden, I was very excited. When Gary came, the reality of life on a savannah hit him, as well as the rocky, clay filled soil. Needless to say, a garden was not planted. It was ok. Gary did plenty of other things.

A few weeks ago, I threw some watermelon seeds into a hole. And, God grew them! So, my dear friend, Jonas Delle, took it upon himself to make sure I had a garden, a safe place for watermelon to grow where the sheep, goats and cattle would not eat them. 

One day, after work, he came with his CUTLASS to dig/cut out holes in the hard earth. These were pole holes - holes to put in poles which would be part of the fence. The fence would be made from nym branches which he cut down and removed leaves and whatever else was on them.



My two friends, Gabe and Sydney came to help build the fence. But, Sydney and I are not Ghanaian. We did NOT want to build a fence in the heat of the afternoon.





So, when the poles were in their holes, we pleaded with the guys to let me lash a fence together small, small, each day, in the morning, before it got hot.

The guys agreed and we stopped our work for a photo op!

It took a week or so, and plenty of curling ribbon (I used what I had) and the fence was finished.

Now, the next step...making cages for bell peppers and banana peppers and tomatoes. The carpenter, David, said he just cuts the wire with the wire cutter on a pair of pliers. Where are Chuck and Gary when you need them?



The almost finished product! Seeds were planted, and I did finish off the fencing on the right side, by the house. I've watered my seeds, God has been giving PLENTY of sunshine. I will wait patiently for the harvest!

Honor the Lord with your wealth and the first fruits of all your produce,

then your barns will be filled with plenty,

and your vats will be bursting with wine.

Proverbs 3:9-10

The Battle for John

 

Have you ever felt helpless? This afternoon I was at the Kalsagri Church waiting for people to show up for Bible Study. God had a divine appointment for me during that time...

 

As I was sitting under the nym tree, a young boy came up to me. He looked scared and very distressed. He told me that the wizard was after him, trying to kill him. Now, before you laugh this off and dismiss this encounter, please understand that I live in an area where spiritual warfare is very real, and takes place on a daily basis.

 

I brought out a chair for this boy, and found out his name was John and he was 17 years old. He doesn't go to school, but, he spoke English quite well. His father is dead. His two brothers are dead. His sister is dead. And, now, the wizard wants him dead, too. (Wizard is a term used for the traditional priest. They cast spells, they talk to the evil spirits. In many peoples eyes, they are very powerful.)

 

I told John that the God of the Bible, the one, true God, is much more powerful than any wizard. I asked him if he believed that. He said yes, he did. I read to him from Scripture:

 

Fear not, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed. I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will uphold you with my victorious right hand. "See, all your angry enemies lie confused and shattered. Anyone opposing you will die. You will look for them in vain—they will all be gone. I am holding you by your right hand—I, the Lord your God—and I say to you, don’t be afraid; I am here to help you. Isaiah 41:10-13 (TLB)

 

We talked some more. Then, we prayed. We prayed for protection. John told Satan to leave him alone. He told Satan that he (Satan) had no power over him (John.) He prayed and said that Jesus was stronger and more powerful. He asked Jesus to come and protect him. John asked Jesus to replace the fear he had with His peace. We talked some more. I asked John to stay for Bible study (he stayed for most of it) and invited him to church.

 

I don't know all that is going on in John's life. I pray I will see him again. And, I hope I can share Jesus with him again. Please, pray for John, for protection and for the salvation of his soul. Pray that he will be able to connect with others that are faithful to Christ so John can learn more about what it means to be a follower of Jesus. Pray that John will personally experience the love and mercy of our Lord, Jesus Christ.

 



Still Learning....

 

Today is market day in Lawra. So, in Kalsagri, we have our worship service at 7:00 am so people will have plenty of time to buy and sell. Several times, even many times over the last two weeks, we have announced this fact. I even told the congregation on Wednesday, Sunday, when it gets light outside, get up, bath, get dressed, eat fast and come to church. I had hopes that people would do so...it happened in the past.

 

I left my house around 6:35 am. The air was crisp. I almost expected to see frost on the ground. My arms were cold as I zipped (did I really "zip"?) along the road to Kalsagri. The sun was low and beautiful. What a lovely drive! Yet, when I arrived in Kalsagri, "not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse." No one was at church. It was locked. No benches were set out. The drum was still locked inside. No one was around. 7:00 came and went. No one. 7:10 came and went. No one. 7:20 came and went. Still, nada. 7:30 came and went...should I go home? The first person arrived at 7:33. Then, another person, a cripples man, walking on his hands, arrived. By 8:00, there were seven (7) of us. So, we started the service.

 

Little by little people did come. It was cold outside. The sun does not come up as early this time of year. Some people were out late last night. Whatever the reason, they did not come at 7:00 am, but they did come. By 9:00, there were 80 people there. And, by the time the service was over, there were over one hundred in attendance.

 

During the testimony time, I stood up to speak. I asked for forgiveness for thinking like an American. I am living in a country, in an area, where people do not have clocks. They do not have watches. They do not have cell phones on which the time is displayed. What they do have is the sun. When a person wakes up, they look at the position of the sun. And, that is how time is marked...by the sun. So, when the sun rises late during this time of year, I need to be sensitive to that fact. People did come to church. But, they came according to the clock in the sky, not the one on my wrist. I hope I learned this lesson today. The lesson? It would be that I am not living in America. The lesson that telling time by the sun is not wrong only different. And, the lesson that God calls people to His house, not me!

Kindred Spirits

 

Two of the best words I have heard since living in Ghana were spoken by my good friend, Tula. She said to me, "We're coming!" She said more, of course, but those words...so sweet! I have had some visitors while living in Lawra, but, they were visitors who were making "the rounds," visiting other projects and missionaries here in Ghana. But, now, Tula was coming. YAY! (Her husband Gary came, too.) I am still amazed that they traveled for almost three weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas!

 

Tula had so many roadblocks while preparing to come, including her passport getting "lost" after she mailed it for her visa. She ended up having to get a new passport and had to do her paperwork for her visa several times because it got lost or misplaced. She ended up in the emergency room three days before she was to fly here...seeing a surgeon was suggested. But, she packed her meds in her carry on and came anyway. I wondered what God had in store for her because of all she had to go through to get here. The day for her arrival came and I met her and Gary at the airport.

 

Oh, I cannot tell you how good it was to see her here. We relaxed in Accra, then, I took the bus home while she and Gary rode with another friend, taking it easy until she felt better. By the time she arrived in Lawra, she was exhausted, but happy.

 

During the next two weeks, I was able to show both Gary and Tula, life in Lawra, Kalsagri, and introduce them to my Ghanaian family. Gary went out & about with John Gandaa, doing his agriculture thing. Tula and I visited Kalsagri by way of motorcycle! We visited the tea shop, ate tilapia, talked about ministry and about life. We played with the kids (with Gary) and watched Christmas movies. Gary cooked okra! (It was good. Who knew?) We talked about the possibilities of ministry for future trips. We dreamt. We laughed. And, when I saw them walking into the airport to leave, there were tears in my eyes. Having Tula here was such an encouragement. Such a balm to my entire being. I thank God for friends like Tula and Gary.

 

God has given me many friends with whom I can share my life and they can share theirs. But, it is not often you come across a "kindred spirit." When that gift is given to you, treasure her/treasure him. For they are truly a gift from God!

The Many Faces of Wonder



 

Today, I visited the village of Kondokpie, a community of Kalsagri. It is the village where Naamal was living with her grandmother. Since Rev. Job, who has taken so much time with the care of Naamal while she was in the hospital and after, was in Lawra, I asked him to go with me to visit Naamal's grandmother. Friends of mine, Tula and Gary Crumpton, came along with us. When we arrived at the house, we asked for Naamal's Maakum (Grandmother.) We were told that her grandmother traveled south to Techiman to see Naamal! Amazing! This is the woman who pleaded with me to help her grandchild because no one else would help her.



 

Instead of leaving, we greeted the chief of this small community. Then, we showed him the before and after pictures of Naamal. Words cannot express the look on his face...awe, astonishment, wonder...and then, the photos were passed around. Naamal's uncle, who cannot hear or speak, was jumping up and down with joy, showing the pictures to extended family. People kept coming from their homes and from "out of nowhere" to see...male and female, young and old, all wanted to see the difference in Naamal. Unbelief...realizing a miracle had taken place. Everyone was so happy and so grateful. At least twenty people came all at once and shook our hands to thank us. I responded, "Barka Naangmen!" (Thank God!) Naamal's uncle went to the family house and came out with a bag of groundnuts from his family farm. He just didn't know what to say. Those were holy moments...moments when God was present and experienced by all. Even as we walked back to the truck, more people came to see the photos. They could not believe that this was possible! Our God is so good...to take a five year old girl who was seen as worthless to her parents, and He gave he a new life...a new face...her family back. Praise God for all of His wonderful deeds!

 

Baptism

 

Sunday, 24 November 2013 was an historic day in the life of Kalsagri Methodist Church. The Very Rev. Ernest K. Baiden preached and then baptized 38 people, confirmed 18 people and then administered the sacrament of Communion. Many people  received communion for the first time!

 

 

There were several children under 16 years that were baptized. It was kind of funny...Rev. Baiden told the kids that they would all have to recite a Bible verse before being baptized. Many were cramming before the service! As you can see, Rev. Baiden does NOT use water sparingly!

 





 

Those that were 16 years old and above were also confirmed. They had to answer the baptism/confirmation questions individually and not as a group. First, baptism, then, confirmation.

  

 

I love the look on Comfort's face. You can see the joy! That is what makes life here in the Upper West worth it! Thank You, Jesus!

 



The gentleman above is Ko. He "walks" to church every Sunday. He is one of those people, who, if there were no church in the community, probably would not attend worship service. I don't want to say he is "cripple," it is just that he walks differently than you and I. I am inspired by his determination to get around and go places himself. It seems as if he does not give up! He is always one of the first people at church each week.

 

Communion was also part of the day. For those who were confirmed, it was the first time they were able to take communion. Surely, the LORD was in this place! I was privileged to be a part of these holy moments!

 



End of the Farming Season Work Day

 

Saturday, 23 November, was a work day at Kalsagri Church. Baptism was scheduled for the next day and everyone wanted the church grounds to look fine for the Superintendent Minister. There were plenty of leaves and papers on the ground. I thought we would gather them up and burn them. But, the congregation had other ideas!

 

Rainy season, farming season, is now over. There may be a few odds and ends to harvest, but, for the most part, farming is done. So, how do you get rid of the tall grasses and weeds that have grown during the rainy season? You burn them, of course! But, they are not cut down first. There is a plan...a controlled burn.

 

Someone would take a handful of dried grass and light it with fire. Then, they would "draw a line" with it, indicating the area to be burnt. The crackling of the fire could be heard everywhere! The "fire marshals" were ready with green boughs freshly cut from trees, to beat the flames if they got out of control.

 

And, edge work was done, too! All in all, it was a very safe burn. There were plenty of people around to help keep things in control. I was most impressed.

 

Next came the chopping of tree branches to use while making the Traditional fence. So, the older boys (in their 20s) went to a patch of some near bye trees to cut branches. While there, they saw an idol up in one of the trees. What to do? They left it & later asked the chief. He said to leave it there. I guess we will have to find out if those trees are on church property or not!

 

Branches were cleaned and fences were put around the mango trees that have survived. The fence will keep the sheep, goats and cattle from "chopping" (eating) the baby trees. The final product looked very nice. AND, the pastor was most impressed when he came the next day!

Patrick

 

My friend, Patrick died early Monday morning. He was admitted to the hospital on a Sunday afternoon, about a month ago. He had been very week, not eating, elevated temperature.He was diagnosed with acute malaria. He also had open wounds. You see, Patrick also had leprosy. When I first saw him, he looked as if he would fall over (if he were standing or sitting up) if someone breathed on him. I visited him on Thursday again. I had heard that he wasn't eating, so I took him some red grape juice, hoping he would drink some. Two family members had to support him as they held him up in a sitting position. He drank one big cupful. And then, he drank another. As he drank the third, I shared with him the words of Jesus as He drank the words of Scripture: "27 Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he gave it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you; 28 for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. 29 I tell you, I will never again drink of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom." Matt 26:27-29 (NRSV) When I left Patrick that day, I really did not expect to see him again in this life. But, he started getting stronger. I took more juice to him. And, again I visited.

 

Patrick did get stronger. But, not strong enough. He was released from the hospital after a few weeks. But, he died shortly thereafter. The pastor was called on the morning Patrick died. Patrick had been buried already. In the words of the pastor, "They buried him just as if he were a fowl." Here in the Upper West, even if a person is buried the same day they die, the body is "staged" so people can come to view the body and grieve with the family.

 

The burial was done as soon as a grave could be dug, without delay. The men who buried Patrick took great caution while touching his body and bathed immediately after Patrick's burial. It is believed that whoever touches Patrick's body would be struck with the same illnesses that had taken up residence in Patrick's body. They believe that concerning certain illnesses and if the person is a witch or a wizard. So, great pains are taken to avoid contact with the corpse.

 

Patrick was a believer, although most of his family is Traditional. A memorial service will be held for him, planned by the pastor and church members. I have learned so much from Patrick, just by observing him and visiting with him. I pray he has been made whole in the Saviour's arms.

 

 

A New Appreciation

 

I have another new appreciation. "Of what?" you may ask. "Of groundnuts (peanuts), of course!" Groundnuts are a major crop here in the Lawra area. They are a good source of protein. I buy small bags of them for 20 pesewas (about 10 cents.) But, if you knew the work that goes into making those little bundles of groundnuts, you may never sell them because you are definitely not getting anywhere near what you put into them.

 

First, comes the planting, growing, weeding and harvesting...all by hand with hand hewn tools. next, comes drying the groundnuts. That is what I am doing in the above picture - drying the groundnuts that have been given to me. After 6 or 7 days, I can shell them. And then, boil the nut in very salty water. Next is another time of drying. The last step is frying or roasting. Finally, eating! That is the way I like them, roasted,salted, out of the shell. It can take weeks.But, it is worth every step, every minute of preparation...YUM! I will have to wait before I eat. I am grateful for the Kalsagri church members who have blessed me with portions of their groundnut crop...Peanuts, anyone?

Shades of Purple

 

Ten days ago, I was walking home with my friend, Leahy. We were talking, just enjoying each other's company. Earlier that day, we had our Special Needs Awareness Program. My knee hurt a little bit all day, just enough to let me know it was there (arthritis pain.) As we were walking, all of a sudden, I slipped and fell. Yes, on my hurting knee, but I tried to break the fall with my right hand. It was not a pretty sight! (We were walking on uneven ground that was covered with gravel.) The good news is that I was no longer aware of the arthritis pain in my knee! The bad news is that my right wrist was REALLY in pain!

 

I sat there for a moment. Leahy wanted to help me up. But, with bad knees and a very sore wrist, my big question was, "How will I ever be able to get up off the ground?" Again, it was not a pretty sight! After a couple of minutes, I did manage to get vertical once again and we finished the short walk to my house. Leahy was such a sweetheart, getting me ice and later putting an Ace Bandage on me. She even cooked dinner for me! I was planning on going to Wa the next day, so I put "get wrist x-rayed" on my Wa list.

 

The next morning, my wrist still hurt and was swollen quite a bit...did I really have a wrist in there someplace? I took the tro tro to Wa and a taxi to the hospital. I had to get a patient folder, so first, I had to pay for it and the consultation. Then, my vital signs were taken. I was instructed to go to Exam Room 6. Good! There were only 2 people ahead of me. But, ten minutes later, the physician left to go to surgery! Now what? A nurse took pity on me and took me directly into Exam Room 3. The doctor wrote an order for x-rays. I went to the x-ray department, showed them my folder. Then, I was given a slip of paper. I had to go and pay for the x-rays first. So, back to the Cashier. I paid for the x-rays, returned to the x-ray department and waited. Eventually, I was called and the x-rays taken. After they were developed, I asked the technician if he saw anything. He said everything looked fine. So, I took my folder and the x-rays to see the doctor again. This time there were twenty (20) people ahead of me. After fifteen (15) minutes and seeing that no one in the line moved, I returned my folder to where it belongs. My wrist wasn't broken. I would be waiting for hours to hear, "Take it easy. Put ice on it. Use an Ace Bandage. Elevate it. It will take anywhere from 2 to 10 weeks to completely heal." I didn't want to wait. So, I left.

 

For the most part, at least for the first few days, I followed that advice. My wrist, thumb, palm of my hand was very colorful for awhile. Now, not so much. It still hurts, but I can now brush my teeth with my right hand, with some pain. There are plenty of things that still hurt when I try to do them with my right hand. The pain is less each day. I am VERY grateful for all of Leahy's help and that my wrist did not break. I am not young anymore!!!! God is watching over me, in spite of myself!

A Rainy Day

 

When I left home last week, to travel to Wa, the sky over my house was a little gray. The temperature was cool...a nice day for sitting in a crowded tro tro! By the time I walked into town, the sky had turned black! There were not many people at the tro tro station yet, so Habib and I went to have bread and egg at the Tea Shop. As we were eating, the Metro Mass Transit bus arrived. It is not comfortable, but much better than a tro tro. So, we grabbed our uneaten food and ran...Habib ran, I walked fast, to the bus. We were able to get seats and before long, we were on our way!

 

 

A few minutes after getting on the bus, the heavens opened up and it started pouring! I was grateful we were on the bus as most of the tro tros leak, if they have windows that actually close, and would have gotten very wet, even before getting to Wa. By the time we arrived, the rain had reduced and only coming down small (only raining a little.)

 

Now, I know that everything in Lawra closes when it rains, but, Wa is a "big" city. I really did not expect everything to be closed. Everything wasn't closed, but almost! We went to the Post Office to buy stamps. We waited an hour and ten minutes for someone to show up with a key so stamps could be sold to us! The stamp person did not go to work because of the rain! Next, we walked down to the store that sells REAL butter. Of course, that was closed, too! I knew market would be closed because it is outside, so no fresh veggies! But, now we were going to buy the drum that was ordered the week before. It was the purpose for the trip!

 

As Abu drove us to the other end of town, I was amazed...99% of the businesses were closed! A person could walk down the middle of the street and not get hit by a moving vehicle! I couldn't believe my eyes. Like I said, I expected this in Lawra, but not in Wa! We finally arrived at the "drum" store...the drum did not arrive yet. This was the reason we went to Wa! So, we called Yaro to find out where he was. We planned on  traveling back to Lawra in his tro tro. We did get back to Lawra, stamps in hand, a little damp and grateful for the much needed rain!

A Busy Week

 

 

One of my favorite times of the week is Sunday morning, between 7 and 7:30, when I drive my motorcycle out to Kasalgri. The air is still fresh and clean and crisp. Hardly anyone is on the road, only those walking the long way to the Catholic church for mass. My body gets a bit chilled. Ahhh...Then, I arrive at church where at least 20 children are waiting for me. Francis, an 18 year old student has already picked up our benches from the chief's house. He has our little church ready for service. He will teach one Sunday School class to those who are in their teens and older. I will teach the younger ones.

 

We wait until 8:15 to start class. There are 40+ children. Benches are carried out under the big trees and we sit in the shade. With the breeze blowing, it feels almost perfect! I teach the Creation story, saying a few things in Dagaare. I am so grateful when the words come to me! Next, worship service. There are close to 100 in attendance. We are trying to work out how to best arrange benches to allow for dancing. Francis interprets for me. He is learning. (We meet with some other teens on Saturdays to prepare for the service.) The preaching is up to me, with help from the Holy Spirit. After church, people bring me their sick children and their questions. Next, we visit a small girl with a tumor in her mouth. We are hoping to get her the medical attention she needs. I go home and rest before I visit people in the late afternoon.

Monday, is a day of preparation. Fortune, the woman who comes and does some work for me comes in the morning. Anokye will come this afternoon with the water filters for distribution tomorrow. But, mid morning, I receive a phone call from him. He is already in Wa! So, I hurry to Priscilla's house to work with her. I want to have that finished before Anokye arrives. I call the pastor to inform him that Anokye is only 1 1/2 hours away, at most. When Anokye arrives, it seems like my day is finished because I am busy making plans for tomorrow or doing other things, preparing for later in the week.

 

Tuesday, Razak comes on the pastor's motorcycle, I take mine and we drive out to Kasalgri. The pastor is with Anokye and Mary, Anokye's daughter. We visit two communities, greeting people, preaching, telling them of friends in America, showing people how to take care and use the filters and finally, we distribute the water filters. Lunch is served at the pastor's house. Yum! Fufu! Then, I arrive home, mid to late afternoon, exhausted. It looks like rain...

 

 

Wednesday is a health clinic in Kalsagri, the first one. There are challenges...no tables, no chairs, no anything! Everything has to be brought from the chief's house where some of those things are stored. We work without other things. Seventy-seven people are seen today. Most have insurance, some don't. Boy, I thought I was tired yesterday. That was nothing compared to what I feel now!

 

Thursday was SUPPOSED to be my day off...but, I have an afternoon meeting. So, I sit at my desk with several Bibles open and prepare for Sunday's service. I attend my meeting and mention that I was planning to go to Wa on Monday to renew my visa. I found out Monday was a holiday. After the meeting, I rush home, prepare a letter for my pastor that needs to go with the visa documents. He approves it. I get it signed and arrive home about 3 minutes before the rain comes! It only rains a short time. but it did rain!

 

Friday, I got up and got ready to go to Wa. I left my house before 6:30 in order to get back from Wa by mid afternoon. I arrive at Immigration by 9:30, documents, passport, and fee in hand. "Please, God, let everything be acceptable." At 10:30, I leave the office, passport in hand, stamped with my new resident visa. "Thank You, Jesus!" Now, market and home! I do walk in my door before 3 pm.

 

Saturday, I finish preparing for Sunday. I also prepare for our "English" class...going over Sunday's Scripture and Bible study with the Junior high school students. I don't get home until 5:30 or so. It has been a VERY busy week. Lots of things have been accomplished. Mostly, I am tired and am looking forward to a Sunday afternoon nap!

Culture Check

 

Two weeks ago, a woman came to the Kalsagri church with her grand-daughter, Naamal. She said that this wasn't her church. But, could we please help her grand-daughter? Naamal's parents don't want her because of the growth in her mouth. So, they sent her to Kasalgri to live with "Maakum" (Grandmother). Maakum is old. She can't do much for the girl. She said that others said they would help, but no one has. So, I took her picture, sent out a few emails. She might have a Burkitt’s lymphoma tumor, I don't know. But, what we did find out is that she has to go to the local hospital to get a referral to the Wa hospital. Then, at the Wa hospital, she has to get a referral to a teaching hospital in Kumasi. This would be a great hardship for the family.

 

Since I didn't know the girl's surname, guardian name, birthdate, age, etc., we went to visit the grandmother today. After we greeted her, we asked all kinds of questions about Naamal. The grandmother did not know the child's surname or the father's surname. She did not know the age of the child. We were told that Naamal was not born this way. This growth/tumor has been growing for three years. She was taken to the local hospital by her Maakum. The doctor wanted to give her a referral. But, Maakum told the doctor to wait until Naamal's father came back from down south. Someone did eventually get a hold of the father. He refused to come. There is an uncle who lives at the family house. But, he cannot speak. So, when asked who would take responsibility for Naamal, if we could take to to the various doctors, the answer was there is no one locally. We tried to call both the mother and the father. Neither one answered their phone. So, our hands are tied as we wait and continue trying to call the parents.

 

I couldn't help but think that this would never happen in America. I wonder what will become of Naamal. Will she ever see a specialist? Or will she die before she gets the chance? Lord, give me wisdom!

 



Friend of the Poor

 

On the African plains a young mother weeps for her hungry child,

She prays he'll survive.

With tear-filled eyes she looks up to heaven and calls Your name,

She pours out her pain.

You know her name and You hear her cries.

Friend of the poor, help me through the night;

Help me in the fight, come to my rescue.

Friend of the poor, take these skin and bones,

Make this heart a home, come to my rescue,

Friend of the poor.

 

~ Friend of the Poor by Andy Park

 

This is a picture of Vikpenidie and his mother, Yaa. They live in one of the sub villages of Kalsagri. His mother came to us last Sunday after service saying that Vikpenidie was too small, there is no breast milk. So, Rashid, the Nutrition Officer at the Lawra Methodist Clinic went to the village to see them. He encouraged Yaa to come to the clinic the next day. He would show her how to mix a special formula that would help Vikpenidie gain weight. On Monday, when they came, the baby was weighed. He is six weeks old and only 2.6 kg.! (That's 5.72 lbs. to my American friends/family.) Vikpenidie has Marasmus, a "dry" type of malnutrition. His skin is falling off his body because he is wasting away. He has sores all over his little body. Rashid gave Yaa a zinc oxide creme for the baby's body. He showed her how to make the special formula and how to feed it to Vikpenidie. Rashid also encouraged Yaa to stay at the Children's Centre for a week, just so she could get into the rhythm of making the formula and feeding Vikpenidie eight times a day. Monday and Tuesday she refused to stay. By the middle of the week, she still refused, but has promised - and kept her promise - to come every day to stay and learn how to prepare the special formula her baby needs. She came and learned and fed him, many times a day! She wants to see her baby survive. She wants him to grow strong. It will take time for Vikpenidie to gain weight, to be a healthy baby. But, with God, all things are possible! Rashid is a good nutritionist. He will do his best to make sure Yaa leaves with all the information she needs.

 

Please, pray for this small child to survive, and, not only survive, but live a life that will reflect the Father's joy, grace, love and mercy. And pray that when he is strong and older, he will glorify God because he has survived!