On Saturday morning I arrived in Uganda after traveling by bus overnight from Nairobi, Kenya. In total the journey lasted 13 hours, 2 of which were spent at the border anxiously waiting for the bus to clear customs and take us back on. A couple of fellow passengers assured me this was not the norm and began to grow impatient. This only fueled my anxiety as Africans are some of the most patient people I know!
Prior to leaving Nairobi I received news that the friend who I would be visiting in Pallisa, Uganda had just lost his mother. I would be arriving just in time for the funeral, my first African funeral. I arrived at my friend Simon's family compound which now hosts St. Peter's School Amusala as he and his family have moved to Kampala (capital city of Uganda) and was warmly greeted by Simon. He then ushered me into a sea of people. There was close to 500 and more would visit in the coming days. To my surprise I was asked to speak briefly on behalf of the non-profit Simon works for and of which I have volunteered. The day was a great reflection of how Simon's mother touched many in this rural community. I was fortunate to be a part of this time with the family and friends. I was introduced to many people and spent time entertaining some of the younger children. After winding down over a cup of tea with Harriet (Simon's wife) I headed back the 3 kilometers into the center of town and to the inn where I will be staying for a much needed nights rest.
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