A Sensory Experience

Africa is far.

I know that sounds so simple.  But since 5 am on Saturday morning until now, I can truly appreciate the complexity of such a simple statement.  We are in our hotel in Swaziland- our home for at least the next four days.  But not too long ago I was nearly two miles in the sky flying over the country that has before now been only the subject of stories.

There's something to be said for the first few "moments"; a peak out the airplane window over the giant wing to the city lights.  Stepping over the crack between the airplane and the jetway.  The first sensation of the air:  how does it feel?  Warm and somewhat muggy.  I have nervous anticipation as we approach the passport agent and breathe a sigh of relief when they let me through.  Our bags are collected now as we congregate in the welcoming area of the airport.  Justin Timberlake sings on the intercom overhead.  After a scary prompt to take the baggage cart up the escalator, we walk past the contemporary KFC with red chairs that look like they came from Ikea.  We step out the door into South African air for the first time.  For me, it is perfect.  A perfect blend of coolness and fresh air.  We have arrived in Africa.

After a lavish breakfast with eggs made to order, fresh fruit, and pastries, we are ready to hit the road again to travel from Johannesburg to Swaziland.  Everyone is in good spirits and feeling spoiled by our hotel experience - fresh sheets and a hot shower is all it takes sometimes to experience God's goodness.  And He is good for all that He allowed on our journey here.

As we left South Africa, trees lined the horizon line.  On a moment's notice our driver pointed out three rhinos and an ostrich to the right side.  Sure, there were plenty of cows, goats, and sheep.  But our jaws dropped at the excitement of seeing rhinos off the side of the freeway.  The terrain turned to mountains as we entered the kingdom of Swaziland.  Beautiful green mountains.

The day has turned to night and after dinner, I found my way to the balcony with a few others.  The sky lit up with lightening.  Lightening so bright it filled the sky.  I leaned on the balcony rail and thought to myself, these are the moments I'll remember when I think of Africa.  Before my mind becomes overtaken by the stories of the children and families I'll meet, these are the details that make this place what it is.  Although there is a lot to do, I pray that God allows me to see his magnitude in this unique and beautiful place.  I pray that I can be.