The Final Amble

It's not my bike????

 

The most northern point of Lake Victoria and the beginning of the Nile

Note the Jacaranda planted as a farewell

That little island at the tail end of lake Victoria above marks the official beginning of the Mighty Nile river. I happened to be in Jinja Uganda last month gazing upon yet another breath-takingly spectacular African view. I found myself once again sincerely grateful for being given the opportunity in life to see so many cool things including this mighty river at it's headwaters in Uganda, the mouth in Egypt and few places in between. I also counted my blessings for being given the opportunity to work with MSF for the past four years -- an organization that indeed is making a difference in the lives of so many. It also marks the time where I must part with the team I have worked closely with over the past years and learned so much. Together - we accomplished a great deal of which we are justifiably proud.

The story of  "It's not my bike"  came early in my African ambling adventure. A small lad of 5 or 6 years of age came into my yard after leaning his bike against the gate. He walked in and we  chatted about this and that for a bit until he decided it was time to go on to something more interesting than talking with this Mzee (old guy). And as he left, we had - what I think is the funniest exchange.

"Don't forget your bike" I said as he started to walk away without it ...

"Oh -- It's not my bike" said the boy"

"Yes" I said - "but you brought it here so you should take it away"

"I told you" said the boy again - more emphatically "it's not my bike!!"

"I understand that" I said again patiently " but you brought it so please take it with you"

He looked at me puzzled "Mister -- don't you get it -- it's not my Bike!!" and he stomped off shaking his head and muttering at the mjinga mzungu Mzee (Crazy old white man)


Well that story doesn't segue perfectly into my next point other than to illustrate that from different points in life be that places, age, experience -- we all have different perspectives. And that has been my African experience. There are a gazillion and 22 (my father's expression) aspects of Kenyan culture that I often fail to understand and appreciate at first blush. With time perspective and patience -- I now understand a bit better. I've said this before -- but have to say it again. It's a very different culture than my own and I'm so grateful to have had this wonderful adventure and opportunity to appreciate other perspectives.

Jake turns one!!

My friend's little guy turned 1 in December and we celebrated in grand style. With Jake rocking a cool outfit and trying desperately to reach the pedals of this wicked machine, we celebrated wishing him a very happy number Uno!!

For those of you familiar with the story  -- many thanks to you for your donations - they have been appreciated and continue to make life a bit easier for Jake and his Mom. Should you want to part with a little more - please send to me by e-interact to laynemahon@live.com. I'll make sure it's well spent.

Thanks for reading ...Layno!!!