This is Ambili chowing down on a pot of rice. Ambili has miraculously improved after a dangerous struggle with illness and malnutrition Pray that God would continue to provide healthy food, especially protein, for him, his older brother Angu and his mother Kosene. Kosene's husband left her after Angu fell into the fire, permanently disfiguring his hand. Since they have no man to hunt for them, they rely on friends to share their own meager supply of protein.
Saturday, April 28, 2007
Protein
This is Ambili chowing down on a pot of rice. Ambili has miraculously improved after a dangerous struggle with illness and malnutrition Pray that God would continue to provide healthy food, especially protein, for him, his older brother Angu and his mother Kosene. Kosene's husband left her after Angu fell into the fire, permanently disfiguring his hand. Since they have no man to hunt for them, they rely on friends to share their own meager supply of protein.
Friday, April 27, 2007
Pray for Boaz
I just got a prayer request from the Baka team in Cameroon."...yesterday I was interrupted by a loud cry from the area behind the house where the kids were playing. Boaz Conrod, age 4, had fallen from the top of one of the fruit trees. My stomach is doing somersaults again as I try to write about it. He appears to have a broken femur. After a few phone calls and further evaluation, the Conrods began to quickly pack for a trip to Yaoundé. None of the options are preferable at a time like this. Do you drive over 4 hours on bumpy roads where more options are available or drive 45 minutes the other direction where there is some help but very limited. Please join us in praying for his quick healing."
Boaz is the middle child of Nathan and Laurel. Please pray that they would find the help they need, that Boaz would have releif of pain, that he would not suffer any complications, that a good treatment plan would be agreed upon, and that his leg would heal well and quickly.
The above picture is of Boaz with a jar containing a bug collection.
Monday, April 16, 2007
Homeward Bound
(originally written 4/15/07)
Now, on the long flight home, I again have some time to process the events of this wonderful trip. During these last few days, I very much enjoyed spending time with the Scott family, and I hope that all the children will remember Aunt Jennifer when I return. The most momentous time in Big Bekondo was when I heard Mike say that I can now officially consider myself an appointee to the Cameroon field and the Baka team. Then there was much discussion of support raising and language school, both of which will have to happen before I return. It is my wish to come back as soon as possible, but I am trying to remember that God is sovereign over time and circumstances. Please pray with me for a swift return to Cameroon. Pray also for the Abbotts and Conrods as they continue learning the Baka language. Pray that they would remember God's faithfulness and not become weary, even in the little things.
I don't know why God chose to allow me to be a part of the Baka ministry or why He has grown such a love for the Baka in my heart, but I am grateful for the opportunity to serve Him in this way. Thank You Dear Heavenly Father!!
Now, on the long flight home, I again have some time to process the events of this wonderful trip. During these last few days, I very much enjoyed spending time with the Scott family, and I hope that all the children will remember Aunt Jennifer when I return. The most momentous time in Big Bekondo was when I heard Mike say that I can now officially consider myself an appointee to the Cameroon field and the Baka team. Then there was much discussion of support raising and language school, both of which will have to happen before I return. It is my wish to come back as soon as possible, but I am trying to remember that God is sovereign over time and circumstances. Please pray with me for a swift return to Cameroon. Pray also for the Abbotts and Conrods as they continue learning the Baka language. Pray that they would remember God's faithfulness and not become weary, even in the little things.
I don't know why God chose to allow me to be a part of the Baka ministry or why He has grown such a love for the Baka in my heart, but I am grateful for the opportunity to serve Him in this way. Thank You Dear Heavenly Father!!
Sardines
(originally sent 4/10/07)
Using public transport in Cameroon is usually a squishy experience. If one were to take a bush taxi out of Bertoua a few years ago, one might find a vehicle about the size of a mini-van with wooden benches. Usually such a vehicle would say on the back '19 places,' which means that they expect to have 19 passengers on such a taxi. This, of course, was very cramped, and one would find that it was necessary to bring one's knees close to the chest and cram them into the back of the person in front. Of course, one would expect also to have the knees of the person behind also crammed in the same way. In addition, one would find that in order to fit sideways, one must arrange one's shoulders to be either in front or behind the shoulders of one's neighbor. The only direction one would find space would be up, but of course the loud clamor of African music from worn speakers would soon fill that space also. In addition to these minor discomforts, there is also the possibility of livestock (usually chickens or goats) either in the passenger space or on the top rack and a pile of cargo that occasionally doubles the height of the vehicle. And because of the bumpy dirt roads, wear and tear on vehicles, and logging truck traffic, one can also expect weather or dust to intrude through the windows, doors, and floorboards. Add to all of this the heat and humidity and you can also expect a smelly ride.
This was not quite the case today. We were a bit crowded, but certainly not packed in like sardines. However, we did have sardine sandwiches for lunch (my first time, and they were quite good). Mike and I traveled first from Yaoundé to Douala in a very nice bus with meal service (pan au chocolate, on of my favorite choices at the bakery), then we took a taxi across town to catch another bus to Kumba. When we reached Kumba we took a taxi to the CBC compound where we were treated with a bathroom break, some cold water, and a little visit with some missionaries there. After some shopping in the Kumba market, we headed to Big Bekondo. And to my delight (perhaps mixed with a little disappointment at the loss of adventure), the Bekondo road was in good repair and we only went 4-wheeling a few times.
Now after a warm greeting by the Scott family, a warm meal, and some time of singing with the Scotts, I am ready for a nice refreshing shower. I still smell a little bit of sardine that dripped onto my skirt:0)
Using public transport in Cameroon is usually a squishy experience. If one were to take a bush taxi out of Bertoua a few years ago, one might find a vehicle about the size of a mini-van with wooden benches. Usually such a vehicle would say on the back '19 places,' which means that they expect to have 19 passengers on such a taxi. This, of course, was very cramped, and one would find that it was necessary to bring one's knees close to the chest and cram them into the back of the person in front. Of course, one would expect also to have the knees of the person behind also crammed in the same way. In addition, one would find that in order to fit sideways, one must arrange one's shoulders to be either in front or behind the shoulders of one's neighbor. The only direction one would find space would be up, but of course the loud clamor of African music from worn speakers would soon fill that space also. In addition to these minor discomforts, there is also the possibility of livestock (usually chickens or goats) either in the passenger space or on the top rack and a pile of cargo that occasionally doubles the height of the vehicle. And because of the bumpy dirt roads, wear and tear on vehicles, and logging truck traffic, one can also expect weather or dust to intrude through the windows, doors, and floorboards. Add to all of this the heat and humidity and you can also expect a smelly ride.
This was not quite the case today. We were a bit crowded, but certainly not packed in like sardines. However, we did have sardine sandwiches for lunch (my first time, and they were quite good). Mike and I traveled first from Yaoundé to Douala in a very nice bus with meal service (pan au chocolate, on of my favorite choices at the bakery), then we took a taxi across town to catch another bus to Kumba. When we reached Kumba we took a taxi to the CBC compound where we were treated with a bathroom break, some cold water, and a little visit with some missionaries there. After some shopping in the Kumba market, we headed to Big Bekondo. And to my delight (perhaps mixed with a little disappointment at the loss of adventure), the Bekondo road was in good repair and we only went 4-wheeling a few times.
Now after a warm greeting by the Scott family, a warm meal, and some time of singing with the Scotts, I am ready for a nice refreshing shower. I still smell a little bit of sardine that dripped onto my skirt:0)
To Big Bekondo
(originally sent 4/10/07)
As I write this, I am in Yaoundé, spending the night before I travel all day tomorrow with Mike to Big Bekondo. I get to spend a couple days there before traveling to Limbe for a couple days. Then I am off to the airport again for a long flight back to California. Please pray for clarity, wisdom, and peace as I spend some time working out details and debriefing with Mike and Becky these next few days. Praise God for a good visit with the Conrods and Abbotts and for a precious reunion with some Baka friends.
As I write this, I am in Yaoundé, spending the night before I travel all day tomorrow with Mike to Big Bekondo. I get to spend a couple days there before traveling to Limbe for a couple days. Then I am off to the airport again for a long flight back to California. Please pray for clarity, wisdom, and peace as I spend some time working out details and debriefing with Mike and Becky these next few days. Praise God for a good visit with the Conrods and Abbotts and for a precious reunion with some Baka friends.
Rain Forest Rain
(originally sent 4/10/07)
For the second night in a row, we are having tremendously heavy rain.
It is the end of dry season here, but rainy season has been slow in coming, so the days have been hot and muggy. Desma described the last month as sauna month (it's been in the 90's occasionally with very high humidity). Once the rains are in full force, the temperature will fall a little, it will be a little more bearable, and gardens will no longer need watering.
But tonight, we are blessed with tremendously heavy rain. I can occasionally hear the thunder outside over the deafening sound of the downpour hitting the tin roof, and I was forced to close all the windows in the kitchen, because the rain was coming in (we rarely close windows here as we have no air conditioning, and there is need for ventilation). But from the bedroom windows, I can see the flashes of lightning light up the sky, giving a beautiful profile view of the forest trees around us. At times the lightning is so bright that it lights up the yard and the surrounding forest.
The rain is a blessing for another reason also. When the noise level reaches such a peak, it becomes very easy to tune out what is going on around me and spend some time processing some of the thoughts and feelings that this visit has brought up. It's also a great time to spend in prayer. Thank you Lord for the blessing of rain forest rain.
For the second night in a row, we are having tremendously heavy rain.
It is the end of dry season here, but rainy season has been slow in coming, so the days have been hot and muggy. Desma described the last month as sauna month (it's been in the 90's occasionally with very high humidity). Once the rains are in full force, the temperature will fall a little, it will be a little more bearable, and gardens will no longer need watering.
But tonight, we are blessed with tremendously heavy rain. I can occasionally hear the thunder outside over the deafening sound of the downpour hitting the tin roof, and I was forced to close all the windows in the kitchen, because the rain was coming in (we rarely close windows here as we have no air conditioning, and there is need for ventilation). But from the bedroom windows, I can see the flashes of lightning light up the sky, giving a beautiful profile view of the forest trees around us. At times the lightning is so bright that it lights up the yard and the surrounding forest.
The rain is a blessing for another reason also. When the noise level reaches such a peak, it becomes very easy to tune out what is going on around me and spend some time processing some of the thoughts and feelings that this visit has brought up. It's also a great time to spend in prayer. Thank you Lord for the blessing of rain forest rain.
Innocent part 2
(originally sent 4/4/07)
After keeping Innocent in his bed with his foot elevated and bandaged tightly all night, we received word that the bleeding had nearly stopped. We also had his wife giving him re-hydration fluid in the absence of supplies to gain IV access and give him IV fluids. Since his condition had improved slightly and it was the weekend, we decided to wait until Monday to take him to the clinic again. When Monday rolled around, Nathan, Laurel, Innocent, Innocent's wife, Innocent's father, and I piled into the pickup to head back to the government clinic in Dimako. The doctor met us at the car and immediately took Nathan into an office to explain that he could not treat Innocent because he was HIV positive. When we questioned him, he changed his strategy and said that the growth would bleed a lot if he tried to remove it and he did not have enough supplies. We offered to go to the pharmacy to buy the necessary supplies, as is often the custom in Cameroonian clinics and hospitals, but he said we would not be able to find them. I am not sure if any of the doctor's excuses for not treating Innocent were legitimate, but it became obvious that he was not willing to remove the growth. After discussing the matter for what seemed like hours, we finally left the clinic to get the advice of the Catholic nuns who also have a clinic in Dimako. They said it might be best to take Innocent to a doctor in Abong-Mbong who is very honest and skilled. We decided that since we were already on our way into Bertoua to get supplies and Bertoua is much closer than Abong-Mbong, we would try to take him to the government hospital there. We were reluctant to show up at the hospital in Bertoua ourselves, since the price of treatment seems to keep climbing higher and higher every time the white missionaries show up with a patient, but we needed to get treatment for Innocent. So, early in the afternoon we dropped him off with a little money and went about shopping for supplies.
After spending all afternoon in town shopping at various stores and in the open-air market, we gathered all the supplies on our list. We made our way back to the hospital to check on Innocent. We were told that Innocent had cancer of the foot, something that may or may not be true, and that he would have to stay for 3 weeks and might need to have his foot amputated. Pray with us that Innocent would have a good outcome, that his foot and his life would be spared, and that God would use this hardship as a way to bring Innocent and his family closer to Himself.
After keeping Innocent in his bed with his foot elevated and bandaged tightly all night, we received word that the bleeding had nearly stopped. We also had his wife giving him re-hydration fluid in the absence of supplies to gain IV access and give him IV fluids. Since his condition had improved slightly and it was the weekend, we decided to wait until Monday to take him to the clinic again. When Monday rolled around, Nathan, Laurel, Innocent, Innocent's wife, Innocent's father, and I piled into the pickup to head back to the government clinic in Dimako. The doctor met us at the car and immediately took Nathan into an office to explain that he could not treat Innocent because he was HIV positive. When we questioned him, he changed his strategy and said that the growth would bleed a lot if he tried to remove it and he did not have enough supplies. We offered to go to the pharmacy to buy the necessary supplies, as is often the custom in Cameroonian clinics and hospitals, but he said we would not be able to find them. I am not sure if any of the doctor's excuses for not treating Innocent were legitimate, but it became obvious that he was not willing to remove the growth. After discussing the matter for what seemed like hours, we finally left the clinic to get the advice of the Catholic nuns who also have a clinic in Dimako. They said it might be best to take Innocent to a doctor in Abong-Mbong who is very honest and skilled. We decided that since we were already on our way into Bertoua to get supplies and Bertoua is much closer than Abong-Mbong, we would try to take him to the government hospital there. We were reluctant to show up at the hospital in Bertoua ourselves, since the price of treatment seems to keep climbing higher and higher every time the white missionaries show up with a patient, but we needed to get treatment for Innocent. So, early in the afternoon we dropped him off with a little money and went about shopping for supplies.
After spending all afternoon in town shopping at various stores and in the open-air market, we gathered all the supplies on our list. We made our way back to the hospital to check on Innocent. We were told that Innocent had cancer of the foot, something that may or may not be true, and that he would have to stay for 3 weeks and might need to have his foot amputated. Pray with us that Innocent would have a good outcome, that his foot and his life would be spared, and that God would use this hardship as a way to bring Innocent and his family closer to Himself.
Innocent part 1
(originally sent 4/4/07)
Last night, at about midnight, word was sent to us that a man in the encampment was bleeding badly. We were aware that many of the adults from our area were gone and we suspected that there may be some drinking going on in the encampment. When this happens accidents and violence are more common. Nathan and I gathered some supplies and drove the 2 kilometers to the encampment. We discovered Innocent, one of the village teachers, lying on his bamboo bed with his foot submerged in a bucket full of blood and water. Innocent had come to Nathan several days earlier for a large growth that has recently appeared on the bottom of his foot. He was taken to the Catholic clinic to have it looked at and was sent from there to the government clinic. For three days, he showed up at the government clinic with the appropriate money in hand to have the growth removed and after waiting for several hours each day was turned away because the doctor was in a meeting or too busy. It was this growth that had begun bleeding severely. Innocent had put a makeshift tourniquet on his leg and the bleeding had nearly stopped, but he appeared weak and drawn. It was obvious that he had already lost a lot of blood, and he was showing the beginning signs of shock. However, he was quite coherent and following directions well. Nathan and I talked over our options and decided it would be best to try to take him to the government clinic. Though the clinic is a 24 hour facility, it is not always well staffed and the staff is not always very helpful. That proved to be true when we arrived. Nathan got out of the truck and found someone to help him bring Innocent to the porch of the consultation room. The only "qualified" person at the clinic was stone drunk and unwilling to hear our concerns. She denied being drunk in the slow drawl of intoxication and proceeded to stumble across the porch to get a look at the patient. I turned to Nathan in frustration and asked if there was anyone else at the clinic that could be called upon. We determined that this woman's coordination and judgment were too compromised and that she could not help us. Nathan explained to Innocent that we would have to go back to his house and try something different. I could see that the physical exertion of coming to the clinic had taken its toll on an already weakened man and wondered how we would deal with the hypovolemic shock that he was experiencing. In North America, we would immediately start IV fluids and give blood products to replace the blood that was lost. But here we do not always have the same luxuries. Our best option was to try to keep him as hydrated as possible by giving him fluids by mouth, do our best to keep the bleeding to a minimum, and pray. We did these things, gave some instructions to the family and went to our beds to wait till morning.
Lord, please preserve Innocent's life. Please heal his body, stop the bleeding, and replace the lost blood. But most of all, Lord, please use this emergency to bring Innocent to Yourself.
Last night, at about midnight, word was sent to us that a man in the encampment was bleeding badly. We were aware that many of the adults from our area were gone and we suspected that there may be some drinking going on in the encampment. When this happens accidents and violence are more common. Nathan and I gathered some supplies and drove the 2 kilometers to the encampment. We discovered Innocent, one of the village teachers, lying on his bamboo bed with his foot submerged in a bucket full of blood and water. Innocent had come to Nathan several days earlier for a large growth that has recently appeared on the bottom of his foot. He was taken to the Catholic clinic to have it looked at and was sent from there to the government clinic. For three days, he showed up at the government clinic with the appropriate money in hand to have the growth removed and after waiting for several hours each day was turned away because the doctor was in a meeting or too busy. It was this growth that had begun bleeding severely. Innocent had put a makeshift tourniquet on his leg and the bleeding had nearly stopped, but he appeared weak and drawn. It was obvious that he had already lost a lot of blood, and he was showing the beginning signs of shock. However, he was quite coherent and following directions well. Nathan and I talked over our options and decided it would be best to try to take him to the government clinic. Though the clinic is a 24 hour facility, it is not always well staffed and the staff is not always very helpful. That proved to be true when we arrived. Nathan got out of the truck and found someone to help him bring Innocent to the porch of the consultation room. The only "qualified" person at the clinic was stone drunk and unwilling to hear our concerns. She denied being drunk in the slow drawl of intoxication and proceeded to stumble across the porch to get a look at the patient. I turned to Nathan in frustration and asked if there was anyone else at the clinic that could be called upon. We determined that this woman's coordination and judgment were too compromised and that she could not help us. Nathan explained to Innocent that we would have to go back to his house and try something different. I could see that the physical exertion of coming to the clinic had taken its toll on an already weakened man and wondered how we would deal with the hypovolemic shock that he was experiencing. In North America, we would immediately start IV fluids and give blood products to replace the blood that was lost. But here we do not always have the same luxuries. Our best option was to try to keep him as hydrated as possible by giving him fluids by mouth, do our best to keep the bleeding to a minimum, and pray. We did these things, gave some instructions to the family and went to our beds to wait till morning.
Lord, please preserve Innocent's life. Please heal his body, stop the bleeding, and replace the lost blood. But most of all, Lord, please use this emergency to bring Innocent to Yourself.
Powdered Faces and Water Balloons
(originally sent 4/4/07)There are several young Baka children that hang out around our little collection of bungalows. It's difficult for me when I remember what a hard life they have. Many of them have been through difficulties children in North America could only imagine. Angu has a hand that is permanently disfigured from a fall in the fire and a face that is afraid to smile because of ridicule and harsh discipline. His little brother Ambili suffers from severe mal-nutrition that nearly caused his death, but he has improved dramatically in the last few months. Kunde recently fell into the cooking pot, burning his hand and forearm. Other children are left to fend for themselves most of the time. Many of them have been walking around completely naked the last couple days, until Laurel came out with some shirts that belong to her two young sons. I've heard the missionaries remark several times the last few days that it is hard for even their children, who play with the Baka children every day, to understand just how difficult life is for the Baka.
I got to spend some special time with the Baka kids today. I was sitting out on the Conrod's porch tickling some Baka boys while Laurel cut her boys' hair. She had baby powder out and was using it on Boaz when she gave a little to a girl sitting nearby. Immediately the powder ended up on her face to the delight of everyone else around. Powder was given to everyone, and thus commenced a scene of laughter and smiles as everyone got their pictures taken and looked in the mirror to see themselves.
The baby powder fun was scarcely finished when someone announced that the Abbotts had prepared water balloons for the children. They had a great time throwing water balloons at each other and effectively created a paste on their skin and in their hair with the powder and water mixture.
When we finished with that fun, we became aware that there were no Baka adults nearby. Usually, when that happens, it means that there is a celebration in the encampment. I had picked up little Ambili, who is not yet walking though he is probably about 2 years old, when he began crying in the chaos of the water balloon fight. Since Ambili has been so ill in the last year, I had written my friends here to ask if I would be able to see Ambili and take some pictures of him now that he is recovering. I had no idea that I would get a couple of hours of one-on-one time with him. His mother had also left, probably to gather food, and Ambili was left with a few young girls to look after him. So, I just kept him until his mother returned.
A few months ago, Ambili was so malnourished and ill that he looked like a skeleton and could not hold his head up. The missionary team here decided to make Ambili a prayer project and begun to pray that God would miraculously heal Ambili and grow him up to be a man of God. He has improved greatly, but his legs arms, and neck are still quite thin, and his belly, hands, and feet are swollen because of malnutrition. Ambili probably weighs less than 15 pounds at almost 2 years old. However, due to his miraculous improvement, we hope that God has great plans for Ambili. Perhaps he will be a great evangelist or a leader in the church, or maybe he will help teach Baka parents how to keep their children strong and healthy. Regardless of what he does with his life, I hope that he gives all glory to God for how He has preserved him. Please pray with us that Ambili would continue to gain strength and that God would be glorified in his life.
Change of Plans
(originally sent 3/30/07)
There may be a small change in my travel plans for the next couple of weeks. The family that I was supposed to go visit for a week at the end of my trip here may need to travel to Canada on personal business. Therefore, I may have a longer stay out in Baka-land than I had originally planned. Though I am disappointed that I may not get to see the Scotts, I also welcome the extra time here with the Baka team as our time together was shortened by flight difficulties and luggage problems. Pray that God's will would be done in the plans that are made.
There may be a small change in my travel plans for the next couple of weeks. The family that I was supposed to go visit for a week at the end of my trip here may need to travel to Canada on personal business. Therefore, I may have a longer stay out in Baka-land than I had originally planned. Though I am disappointed that I may not get to see the Scotts, I also welcome the extra time here with the Baka team as our time together was shortened by flight difficulties and luggage problems. Pray that God's will would be done in the plans that are made.
developing
(originally sent 3/30/07)
It's so strange to be in Cameroon now after being absent for 6 years. I've heard that everyone has cell phones now and that many more things are available in country, but I didn't realize the extent of it. When I arrived, I was surprised that all my missionary friends had cell phones. Since I got to spend a few extra days in Douala and Yaoundé, I also got to see what else was available in country. The biggest category of change for me is the availability of western-style food. Many items are available in the bigger cities, but even in Bertoua, the small capital of our province, you can find many more things than before. I was especially surprised to discover that there is a functional market in Dimako, which is just a few minutes from us. I guess I should have expected a developing country to continue developing, but this is a sweet surprise that should make life and ministry in Cameroon a little easier.
It's so strange to be in Cameroon now after being absent for 6 years. I've heard that everyone has cell phones now and that many more things are available in country, but I didn't realize the extent of it. When I arrived, I was surprised that all my missionary friends had cell phones. Since I got to spend a few extra days in Douala and Yaoundé, I also got to see what else was available in country. The biggest category of change for me is the availability of western-style food. Many items are available in the bigger cities, but even in Bertoua, the small capital of our province, you can find many more things than before. I was especially surprised to discover that there is a functional market in Dimako, which is just a few minutes from us. I guess I should have expected a developing country to continue developing, but this is a sweet surprise that should make life and ministry in Cameroon a little easier.
Dreams
(originally sent 3/28/07)
Before I came on this trip, I got an email from Barry asking me to compile a list of ideas and dreams about the ministry here with the Baka. I've had some dreams about Baka ministry and some things that I anticipate God may do, but I have never actually written them all down. Yesterday we had a team meeting and briefly discussed some of the ideas that have been written by the current members of the team. I was encouraged that some of my dreamiest and unlikely ideas were already written down by other members of the team. As soon as I left the Conrod's house after dinner, I immediately opened up my laptop and compiled a list of my own. I was surprised to see how many ideas I came up with. I've prayed for years about some of them, and I firmly believe that they are God's will. It is pretty amazing that God impressed the same things on my heart as He impressed on the hearts of others, especially since they are things that could only be accomplished by the mighty power of God.
Thank You, Lord, once again, for letting me be part of Your work among the Baka.
Before I came on this trip, I got an email from Barry asking me to compile a list of ideas and dreams about the ministry here with the Baka. I've had some dreams about Baka ministry and some things that I anticipate God may do, but I have never actually written them all down. Yesterday we had a team meeting and briefly discussed some of the ideas that have been written by the current members of the team. I was encouraged that some of my dreamiest and unlikely ideas were already written down by other members of the team. As soon as I left the Conrod's house after dinner, I immediately opened up my laptop and compiled a list of my own. I was surprised to see how many ideas I came up with. I've prayed for years about some of them, and I firmly believe that they are God's will. It is pretty amazing that God impressed the same things on my heart as He impressed on the hearts of others, especially since they are things that could only be accomplished by the mighty power of God.
Thank You, Lord, once again, for letting me be part of Your work among the Baka.
Hedgehog
Have you ever had hedgehog for dinner? The hedgehog here is a little different from hedgehog in North America. Augustine prepared us an excellent meal this evening with hedgehog in a tomato sauce, plantains, and fresh mango. Before you ask, hedgehog is quite good. It is very tender and tasty. I guess it is very similar to lean beef with a bit of the taste of lamb. The best description that I can give is that it tastes wild.
Strange Chorus
(originally sent 3/27/07)
Night-time bug sounds, Baka women chatting around the fire, and the screams of a distant tree hyrax. I find this melange of sounds quite interesting. Of course, you have heard the sound of bugs chirping and singing in the trees, but the sound is amplified in the forest by the mere volume of bugs present and the lack of competing sounds. The bugs make a great background noise for Baka voices heard in the darkness. But the real point of interest is the tree hyrax that is screaming in the distance. If you have never heard of this animal, you are not alone. The tree hyrax is related to the elephant, but looks nothing like an elephant. It is a small rodent-like animal that lives in the trees. At night, this little animal makes a big noise. First, it warms up by letting out a few evenly spaced hoots that sound like a monkey. Then, those hoots quickly evolve into piercing screams that sound like something from either a maternity ward or a horror film. It is, naturally, something that can be quite nerve wracking the first time it is heard, but tonight it just serves as a reminder that I am not in North America.
Night-time bug sounds, Baka women chatting around the fire, and the screams of a distant tree hyrax. I find this melange of sounds quite interesting. Of course, you have heard the sound of bugs chirping and singing in the trees, but the sound is amplified in the forest by the mere volume of bugs present and the lack of competing sounds. The bugs make a great background noise for Baka voices heard in the darkness. But the real point of interest is the tree hyrax that is screaming in the distance. If you have never heard of this animal, you are not alone. The tree hyrax is related to the elephant, but looks nothing like an elephant. It is a small rodent-like animal that lives in the trees. At night, this little animal makes a big noise. First, it warms up by letting out a few evenly spaced hoots that sound like a monkey. Then, those hoots quickly evolve into piercing screams that sound like something from either a maternity ward or a horror film. It is, naturally, something that can be quite nerve wracking the first time it is heard, but tonight it just serves as a reminder that I am not in North America.
Arrival
Because of an email glitch, I wasn't able to send out updates while in Cameroon. The next few entries will catch you up a little.
(originally sent 3/26/07)
March 20, 2007
Sometimes a trip goes quite smoothly and nothing really goes wrong to speak of. Other times, it seems that one problem leads to another. In spite of all the obstacles that have been in the way on this trip, I have safely arrived in Cameroon!!!
It is so good to finally be here!
I was met at the airport by an unexpected friend named Paul. He was waiting for me and introduced himself as someone who was sent to collect me and attends the Baptist church here. Paul is an employee of the airport, so he was able to navigate the airport system much better than I would have alone. By the time I passed through customs and came to the baggage claim area, there were a swarm of porters who earn their money by handling baggage for arriving passengers. They are quite forceful and are hard bargainers at times, so I was grateful to Paul for acting as porter, personal security, and friend as we waited for baggage.
Unfortunately, we waited in vain. My bags were delayed in Chicago. It is interesting that they should be left in Chicago; since I made a point of inquiring after my luggage after learning that the system had somehow kicked me off of the flight (they were able to give me a new seat assignment). I was assured that the bags had, in fact, been loaded onto the plane. Another reason I find it interesting is that the American carrier was the airline that lost the bags. In Cameroon, Air France is known affectionately as "Air Chance," since it is likely that if you loose bags it will be with Air France. I lost a bag with them last time I came to Cameroon, but it seems they are not to blame this time. We will meet Paul at the airport again tomorrow to look for my bags.
The Abbotts were certainly a sight for sore eyes as I left the airport. Though I expected the kids to have grown since I last saw them, I was surprised to see how big they have gotten. Brianna, as I was warned, is a great conversationalist and comes up with tall tales to impress the listener. She is tall and thin like her mother and has beautiful blond hair with short, soft curls. Brendan is a picture of boyhood. He is also tall, robust, with a great big smile, and a strikingly handsome face. Like his sister, he also has curly blond hair. Both children are quite well behaved and likable.
As always, it was good to see Barry and Desma. Desma has been a close friend since the moment I set foot off the plane on my first trip to Cameroon. She was a single missionary on the Baka team back then, but has since married (ask me about the story someday). Barry is also quite easy to be friends with, and both Barry and Desma complement each other very well. We are staying at a European Baptist guesthouse in Douala to wait for my bags. I am already enjoying the Abbotts laid-back attitude toward life in Cameroon, and of course, their hospitality. We stopped by a local bakery and got an assortment of dinner pastries, a sandwich, and some beignets (donuts) with chocolate spread for dinner. I very much enjoyed our meal together, and then got a much needed shower. We sat around and talked for a little while, and then it was off to bed.
I woke in the middle of the night tonight to the warm stickiness in the air here in Douala. It is raining outside tonight, and the sound of the water hitting the buildings and the ground drowns out all other sounds of this busy port city. It's a heavy rain by North American standards, but doesn't even compare to some of the downpours that I have experienced in the rain forest.
It's currently 3 am in Cameroon, and I started this update hoping that I could cause myself to be sleepy enough to return to bed and sleep the rest of the night, so I better go now and attempt to rest a little before morning.
March 22, 2007
After going to the airport 2 more times to pick up the luggage, we finally gave up. We were being told, "It will surely come tomorrow" each time. We figured that the expense of time and money by staying in Douala was not worth the wait and decided to continue on to the village and collect the bags as I come through on my way to the other end of the country.
However, as we were approaching Yaoundé, we decided to ask another missionary named Dean who would be at the airport to look for the bags for us. He generously said yes, and we decided to spend the day in Yaoundé, running some errands and getting supplies that are not available in our area. This evening, as we were having dinner, we got a call from Dean saying that the luggage did finally come in and to expect it to arrive in Yaoundé at 8:30 in the morning by the SIL plane. Yeah!! Oh, and we even discovered a new place to stay in town.
Of course, God had something to teach me in this process (and I don't think it was patience). I have come to Cameroon to investigate the process of entering into ministry among some people who have very little. They are fortunate if they have a worn-out pair of flip-flops. I have been walking around for the last six days on a warn out pair of flip-flops and wondering what I will do without my tennis shoes. I've also been surviving for the last 6 days on 2 changes of clothes. The Baka do not even have the amount of belongings that I have been toting around for the last week. So, if I arrive in Mayos without my precious luggage, it will be OK.
But, praise God, barring any unforeseen change in plans, I will have that luggage tomorrow and we will finally travel to Mayos. I'll enjoy presenting the things that were packed so carefully and with such enjoyment to the Baka missionary team and to the Baka.
March 25, 2007
Home. That's what this place feels like. As I looked out of the window of the vehicle yesterday, I marveled anew at the grand trees, the African landscape, the giant hornbills flying in the sky, and village after village on this long, dusty, orange road. I couldn't help but smile as I thanked God for that moment. And just a few short hours later we pulled into our destination. I waved warmly, but tentatively at old Baka friends, wondering what their reaction would be to my arrival. 'Will they remember me?' 'Will they care that I am here?' 'Will they wonder what kept me away for so long?' 'Will I greet them appropriately?' I felt as if I was beaming with happiness and relief as I approached the mbanjo (a small shaded shelter made of poles and leaves) where a few Baka were gathered. Lendo was the first to greet me and her greeting was as warm and welcoming as I could have hoped for. 'Thank you God again for this moment.' I exchanged the traditional greeting with several people before they settled back under the mbanjo. Nathan immediately asked me what it felt like to be here. I told him that I was not sure and I thought I was in shock. What I meant to say was that I was relieved, at peace, and full of joy, but I didn't know how to say it just then.
I guess this field visit isn't the typical visit to gain knowledge about the people and ministry and be presented to the field leadership as an appointee. Of course, those are elements of this visit, but I come into this situation having already formed relationships with all of these people and having received God's confirmation that this is where I am to serve Him. What a relief. I don't have to rush around learning as much as I can as fast as I can and impress as many people as I come into contact with. I just get to spend some time with the Baka, the Baka team, and with the field leadership to solidify this process and complete some formalities. Don't get me wrong. This is an important trip. I have already experienced God's hand in it changing me and directing me. And the time with the Baka so far and with the team has been so great. Keep praying that strong relationships will be formed, that I will be an encouragement to the Baka team, that the Baka would begin to understand that I have come because I love them and want to see them become children of God, and that God's hand would be in every aspect of this trip.
March 26, 2007
What a good couple of days it has been. Yesterday, we went into town to attend an ordination ceremony in the Cameroon Baptist Convention (CBC) church in Bertoua. As World Team missionaries, we are affiliated with the CBC, and are obligated to attend such ceremonies. It was about a 45 minute drive from the village. Bertoua is where I spent about half my time when I was in Cameroon last time. The service was very good. It lasted for about 4 hours total, but was very pleasant, and even the young children were able to behave for that long. The service started a little late, so we decided to stop by a friend's house while we were waiting (in Cameroon, it is accepted, and almost expected, that people are late to such events). When we arrived at church, we were seated outside under a shelter, since it was raining off and on. We had some songs in English, some in French, and some in tribal languages. There were 3 small choirs there to perform, and many pastors and dignitaries who had traveled from other areas of Cameroon. We were honored and asked to stand so that the people could see who the missionaries to the Baka were. Of course, they could easily pick us out by the color of our skin and our cultural awkwardness. The sermon was about how God has called all of us to ministry and we must be faithful servants. The pastor who gave the sermon was very clear that the sermon was not given just in honor of the pastor who was being ordained but that it was for all who were in attendance. I was very pleased to hear this sermon, as I have never heard such an appropriate sermon from a Cameroonian pastor. The last hour was spent inside the church building, where the "invited guests" took part in some refreshments. The table was filled with all sorts of Cameroonian food, and it was a treat to get a taste of so many things that I will not be able to eat in the next few weeks. I also got to greet some friends that I might not have gotten to see except for this event, so I really enjoyed myself.
Today was quite a contrast. Instead of getting up and quickly getting ready for church, I was able to hang out with some of the Baka people who live around here. The environment is so relaxed most of the time, and the missionaries and the Baka have a great relationship. I was even been able to learn a little Baka language this morning without any help from the missionaries. Can you tell that I am proud of myself? I look forward to many more days like this, but wish I could be here longer than the 2 weeks that I am planning to stay in the village. I am already trying to plan ways to speed my arrival in Cameroon as a career missionary. Pray that I would remain focused and ask the right questions, and that God would give wisdom to my colleagues and myself as we look toward planning out the future.
(originally sent 3/26/07)
March 20, 2007
Sometimes a trip goes quite smoothly and nothing really goes wrong to speak of. Other times, it seems that one problem leads to another. In spite of all the obstacles that have been in the way on this trip, I have safely arrived in Cameroon!!!
It is so good to finally be here!
I was met at the airport by an unexpected friend named Paul. He was waiting for me and introduced himself as someone who was sent to collect me and attends the Baptist church here. Paul is an employee of the airport, so he was able to navigate the airport system much better than I would have alone. By the time I passed through customs and came to the baggage claim area, there were a swarm of porters who earn their money by handling baggage for arriving passengers. They are quite forceful and are hard bargainers at times, so I was grateful to Paul for acting as porter, personal security, and friend as we waited for baggage.
Unfortunately, we waited in vain. My bags were delayed in Chicago. It is interesting that they should be left in Chicago; since I made a point of inquiring after my luggage after learning that the system had somehow kicked me off of the flight (they were able to give me a new seat assignment). I was assured that the bags had, in fact, been loaded onto the plane. Another reason I find it interesting is that the American carrier was the airline that lost the bags. In Cameroon, Air France is known affectionately as "Air Chance," since it is likely that if you loose bags it will be with Air France. I lost a bag with them last time I came to Cameroon, but it seems they are not to blame this time. We will meet Paul at the airport again tomorrow to look for my bags.
The Abbotts were certainly a sight for sore eyes as I left the airport. Though I expected the kids to have grown since I last saw them, I was surprised to see how big they have gotten. Brianna, as I was warned, is a great conversationalist and comes up with tall tales to impress the listener. She is tall and thin like her mother and has beautiful blond hair with short, soft curls. Brendan is a picture of boyhood. He is also tall, robust, with a great big smile, and a strikingly handsome face. Like his sister, he also has curly blond hair. Both children are quite well behaved and likable.
As always, it was good to see Barry and Desma. Desma has been a close friend since the moment I set foot off the plane on my first trip to Cameroon. She was a single missionary on the Baka team back then, but has since married (ask me about the story someday). Barry is also quite easy to be friends with, and both Barry and Desma complement each other very well. We are staying at a European Baptist guesthouse in Douala to wait for my bags. I am already enjoying the Abbotts laid-back attitude toward life in Cameroon, and of course, their hospitality. We stopped by a local bakery and got an assortment of dinner pastries, a sandwich, and some beignets (donuts) with chocolate spread for dinner. I very much enjoyed our meal together, and then got a much needed shower. We sat around and talked for a little while, and then it was off to bed.
I woke in the middle of the night tonight to the warm stickiness in the air here in Douala. It is raining outside tonight, and the sound of the water hitting the buildings and the ground drowns out all other sounds of this busy port city. It's a heavy rain by North American standards, but doesn't even compare to some of the downpours that I have experienced in the rain forest.
It's currently 3 am in Cameroon, and I started this update hoping that I could cause myself to be sleepy enough to return to bed and sleep the rest of the night, so I better go now and attempt to rest a little before morning.
March 22, 2007
After going to the airport 2 more times to pick up the luggage, we finally gave up. We were being told, "It will surely come tomorrow" each time. We figured that the expense of time and money by staying in Douala was not worth the wait and decided to continue on to the village and collect the bags as I come through on my way to the other end of the country.
However, as we were approaching Yaoundé, we decided to ask another missionary named Dean who would be at the airport to look for the bags for us. He generously said yes, and we decided to spend the day in Yaoundé, running some errands and getting supplies that are not available in our area. This evening, as we were having dinner, we got a call from Dean saying that the luggage did finally come in and to expect it to arrive in Yaoundé at 8:30 in the morning by the SIL plane. Yeah!! Oh, and we even discovered a new place to stay in town.
Of course, God had something to teach me in this process (and I don't think it was patience). I have come to Cameroon to investigate the process of entering into ministry among some people who have very little. They are fortunate if they have a worn-out pair of flip-flops. I have been walking around for the last six days on a warn out pair of flip-flops and wondering what I will do without my tennis shoes. I've also been surviving for the last 6 days on 2 changes of clothes. The Baka do not even have the amount of belongings that I have been toting around for the last week. So, if I arrive in Mayos without my precious luggage, it will be OK.
But, praise God, barring any unforeseen change in plans, I will have that luggage tomorrow and we will finally travel to Mayos. I'll enjoy presenting the things that were packed so carefully and with such enjoyment to the Baka missionary team and to the Baka.
March 25, 2007
Home. That's what this place feels like. As I looked out of the window of the vehicle yesterday, I marveled anew at the grand trees, the African landscape, the giant hornbills flying in the sky, and village after village on this long, dusty, orange road. I couldn't help but smile as I thanked God for that moment. And just a few short hours later we pulled into our destination. I waved warmly, but tentatively at old Baka friends, wondering what their reaction would be to my arrival. 'Will they remember me?' 'Will they care that I am here?' 'Will they wonder what kept me away for so long?' 'Will I greet them appropriately?' I felt as if I was beaming with happiness and relief as I approached the mbanjo (a small shaded shelter made of poles and leaves) where a few Baka were gathered. Lendo was the first to greet me and her greeting was as warm and welcoming as I could have hoped for. 'Thank you God again for this moment.' I exchanged the traditional greeting with several people before they settled back under the mbanjo. Nathan immediately asked me what it felt like to be here. I told him that I was not sure and I thought I was in shock. What I meant to say was that I was relieved, at peace, and full of joy, but I didn't know how to say it just then.
I guess this field visit isn't the typical visit to gain knowledge about the people and ministry and be presented to the field leadership as an appointee. Of course, those are elements of this visit, but I come into this situation having already formed relationships with all of these people and having received God's confirmation that this is where I am to serve Him. What a relief. I don't have to rush around learning as much as I can as fast as I can and impress as many people as I come into contact with. I just get to spend some time with the Baka, the Baka team, and with the field leadership to solidify this process and complete some formalities. Don't get me wrong. This is an important trip. I have already experienced God's hand in it changing me and directing me. And the time with the Baka so far and with the team has been so great. Keep praying that strong relationships will be formed, that I will be an encouragement to the Baka team, that the Baka would begin to understand that I have come because I love them and want to see them become children of God, and that God's hand would be in every aspect of this trip.
March 26, 2007
What a good couple of days it has been. Yesterday, we went into town to attend an ordination ceremony in the Cameroon Baptist Convention (CBC) church in Bertoua. As World Team missionaries, we are affiliated with the CBC, and are obligated to attend such ceremonies. It was about a 45 minute drive from the village. Bertoua is where I spent about half my time when I was in Cameroon last time. The service was very good. It lasted for about 4 hours total, but was very pleasant, and even the young children were able to behave for that long. The service started a little late, so we decided to stop by a friend's house while we were waiting (in Cameroon, it is accepted, and almost expected, that people are late to such events). When we arrived at church, we were seated outside under a shelter, since it was raining off and on. We had some songs in English, some in French, and some in tribal languages. There were 3 small choirs there to perform, and many pastors and dignitaries who had traveled from other areas of Cameroon. We were honored and asked to stand so that the people could see who the missionaries to the Baka were. Of course, they could easily pick us out by the color of our skin and our cultural awkwardness. The sermon was about how God has called all of us to ministry and we must be faithful servants. The pastor who gave the sermon was very clear that the sermon was not given just in honor of the pastor who was being ordained but that it was for all who were in attendance. I was very pleased to hear this sermon, as I have never heard such an appropriate sermon from a Cameroonian pastor. The last hour was spent inside the church building, where the "invited guests" took part in some refreshments. The table was filled with all sorts of Cameroonian food, and it was a treat to get a taste of so many things that I will not be able to eat in the next few weeks. I also got to greet some friends that I might not have gotten to see except for this event, so I really enjoyed myself.
Today was quite a contrast. Instead of getting up and quickly getting ready for church, I was able to hang out with some of the Baka people who live around here. The environment is so relaxed most of the time, and the missionaries and the Baka have a great relationship. I was even been able to learn a little Baka language this morning without any help from the missionaries. Can you tell that I am proud of myself? I look forward to many more days like this, but wish I could be here longer than the 2 weeks that I am planning to stay in the village. I am already trying to plan ways to speed my arrival in Cameroon as a career missionary. Pray that I would remain focused and ask the right questions, and that God would give wisdom to my colleagues and myself as we look toward planning out the future.
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