I just returned to Kinshasa from Kikwit. It was time to leave, but it also created some tears. Such a wonderful country and people.
The Sunday before last, I worshiped at Tata Mahuma's church. Lots of singing, praying and celebrating. One unique feature, which I plan on suggesting for our next annual meeting, is that they kept track of how much each put into the collection basket and then read out the amounts and names after. Most gave about 60 cents while I gave 20 bucks. I had 2 thoughts immediately after, 1) I'm glad I never gave 50 cents or less, 2) If I had known, maybe I would have given 50 bucks.
  This last Sunday was with Edgard at the old Brethren Church we used to worship at, Del. Again, lots of prayer, singing and a longish sermon. The older pastor finally said that he still had a lot more to say but he was getting tired. Again a unique feature was that they danced once around the church with drums, guitars and singing. I joined in. I attempted to dance Mennonite-like, spiritually and totally non-seductive, yet by the giggles from some of the young girls, I may have crossed the line a time or 2.
  I vowed to eat African while I was in Kikwit. I made it right till 2 days from the end. My stomach was continually rebelling and I was always not feeling 100% so I switched from lucu to rice the last 2 days and all cleared up. I also cheated on the water a few times. For those 1 or 2 that still care, Linden:6  Runs:0.
  I have been discouraged with my skin tone. I had hoped for a tan but it seemed that every time I went out, my skin turned whiter. In photos, I look like an albino. However, I asked Michellin yesterday if I was at all turning Black. She thought I was, so that is encouraging. Of course, 'turning Black' can be taken on different levels and I realize I'm still very white in my thinking.
  I met a reporter on the street the other day. He works for an English section of a local radio station. When he heard my story, he wanted an interview to broadcast. Several days ago, we did that and so I will be on Kikwit radio sometimes this week. Remember the philosophical question from physics class? "If a tree falls in the forest and no one is around to hear it, does it make a noise?" I can now relate practically to that scenario because I don't think anyone in Kikwit listens to English radio.