The Power of A

May 11, 2007

Long time readers may remember that when I went back to the states for a conference in October, Cheetos were stolen from my suitcase on my return. This was a disappointment to Ben, and it was the only thing he had asked me to bring back.

A nice person read the email and mailed a box with five bags of Cheetos to us in October.

We received them three days ago.

What was most interesting was that two of the bags were opened and inspected, and then sealed up with duct tape. They were MUCH lighter than the other bags. And, between you and me, I feel MUCH safer.

(Matthew and Ben and duct tape Cheetos)

JT made varsity rugby, and the big Blackrock tournament is this weekend. The varsity team has a tradition of shaving their heads before the big day. In the proud Peifer tradition of shaving heads, I present the before and after pictures:

(They won the tournament, so there MUST be something to it)

School started this week for the Kenyan children, and we were busy making sure the food was all delivered. I have discovered one great power I have in dealing with Kenyans:

The power of A.

As we were unloading the truck, all the men were speaking to each other in Swahili. I have found a way to enter into the conversations.

The power of A.

Driver: Hii ni zito. (This is heavy)

Helper 1: Ndiyo. Zito sana (Yes, very heavy)

Helper 2: Unanisaidia (Help me)

Me: A

In America, during a conversation we might say un-huh or yeah; in Kenya, you say A. I’ve found if I just throw in a few A’s, I fit in fine. Some might even call me eloquent.

The deliveries went well, and I am again grateful that I am too old to lift the bags anymore.

The children are always so happy to see the food come

I was sitting and talking to a group of little kids, and one of them said something that hit me so hard:

Little Girl: I am always so scared before the food arrives?

Me: Why are you scared?

LG: Because I am afraid of being hungry.

Scripture talks about Jesus’ offer to exchange our burdens for His. He tells us that His yoke is easy and His burden is light and that we can trade what is heavy for what is light.

I get to do lots of that in Africa.

Your pal

PS. Typo alert! JT’s get together at Milwaukee Joe’s will be July 28^th; we get back on the 18^th, and I promise you NOBODY would want to see us then.

PPS. Thanks for all the cards for Nancy, and this is the last time I will ask!

Steve and Nancy Peifer

Rift Valley Academy PO Box 80 Kijabe, Kenya 00220