First Impressions
First impressions are often colored by past experiences and expectations. Now that I have lived in Uganda for three entire days, I think it’s time to reflect on my first impressions of Africa while they are fresh in my mind.
Having visited other third world countries like Costa Rica, Honduras, and parts of the Bahamas, Mexico and Jamaica, I had already experienced some of the challenges associated with them. These are some of the things that are in short supply: safe drinking water, paved roads or sidewalks, reliable electricity, air conditioning, clean restrooms (and toilet paper), insect-free accommodations, comfortable transportation, and familiar food. But I had also experienced some of the hidden treasures found in them. I was impressed by the friendly and welcoming people, the beauty of the land and animals, the carefree attitude, the surprising joy found even in those with very little material possessions, the unique food, and the immediate bond I felt while worshipping with other believers. I had also dealt with the language barrier that was sometimes frustrating, but other times just plain funny (like when I would try to speak their language). Because our family had lived in London for 5 months in 2003 and 7 months in 2008 when Jim was teaching for the Pepperdine School of Law overseas program, we knew what it was like to pack up a limited amount of possessions and leave family and friends behind to make a long journey to an unknown land.
All of my past experiences combined with Jim’s descriptions of Africa gave me pretty realistic expectations. I expected that at times I would be uncomfortable, unable to breathe clean air, tired and hungry/thirsty, frustrated, eaten alive by bugs, and missing my family and friends. But I also expected to feel the excitement of the adventure, welcomed by the people, and amazed by the beauty of the land and creatures. I can tell you that Uganda has met my expectations!
It is said that a picture is worth a thousand words, so I want to share what I saw on Saturday when I woke up and looked out the window of our apartment on our first morning in Uganda. The early morning mist over the field is coming from Lake Victoria (the source of the Nile River). Pretty awesome!
View from bedroom balcony
More pictures and tales of our adventure to follow.
How beautiful Joline! We are praying for you! We have all realized that you were the chocolate supplier at CBS, and it is all gone now…you are definitely missed (for more than just chocolate).
Joline, You are a visual journalist and you will help all of us experience this adventure with your family by causing us to taste and touch and feel what all of you are tasting and touching and feeling (even the bug bites!) Thank you for showing us the beauty out of your apartment window because I know you will need to show us many things that are not beautiful. You are always on our prayer list. Love, Claudette
Joline, Thank you for sharing this way. I am sorry your email had to be hacked for me to see your site, but I am so touched to read your beautiful messages and see the photos. We are thinking of all of you and are grateful for everything you are doing. Love, Stephanie, Nathan and Jeremy
Hi Joline, I am really enjoying your posts and look forward to more! What an awesome adventure for you and your family! xo Kimberly Hill
I just barely fishnied Hunger Games and the 2nd book in the series. I was skeptical at first but my wife convinced me to give it a try and I couldn’t put it down. Had to read the 2nd immediately. Very good reads.