"I need Africa more than Africa needs me."
Maybe it's just me, but it seems that ever since I decided to go to Uganda for a few months, I've been hearing things that suggest that maybe I shouldn't be going. First, I wonder if I should be upset or worried that these are signs that I've made a wrong decision. But those thoughts don't last. They do, however, make me think and evaluate why I'm going.
Perhaps these things that I'm hearing resulted from the "Africa fad" that has in a way permeated much of our pop culture, to the point where people have grown tired of it. They're weary of hearing about it, so they decide to believe that nothing can help. It makes me wonder if cynicism may replace apathy when it comes to opportunities we are given to partner with the people in many nations on that continent who are working for solutions.
As I prepare for my time in Uganda, I have found that this provocative statement in the short video below really resonates with me. Everyone wants to feel needed. I am no exception. But I have found myself being drawn more and more toward the idea that during my seven months in Uganda I will probably do a whole lot more learning than DOing. I really like DOing things, so this will stretch me, for sure. Maybe that's why God has seemed to draw me there.
I have very much to learn.
I invite you to watch the video. It resonates with me because it speaks to a lot of my thoughts and desires as of late. Because while I have no idea yet what God is going to teach me about what it means to NEED Africa, I'm really looking forward to finding out!
This video was produced by a project I'm involved with called Mocha Club.
4 comments:
You're right: that is provocative, but I'm glad it resonates with you.
Jen, I don't think your trip is any less valuable if you learn more than you do. Who has any doubt that you can help many people? But any time spent learning more about Africa on a personal level is very valuable.
When will you be in Birmingham?
that made me happy. yay for you needing Africa more than it needs you. i get bothered when people say we just need to go down/over there and love on those poor people...puh-lease...as if these people haven't been introduced to it...they live it more than most saying those silly phrases. Gah. Soapbox; found it.
...I'll have you know I'm guilty too though.
Hey Jen, Long time. I came across your blog and just read your post about Uganda. I just got back from 4.5 months in Botswana. Ironically enough one of my roommates was from Uganda. I totally resonate with needing Africa. There is something about living there that gets in your blood. You see things so differently. You'll want to help, but for different reasons than you may even have now. It is completely more about learning than doing. I'm excited for you and a bit jealous. Have an amazing time.
Jen that is an awesome video and just repeats what one of our pastors shared today who just spent 3 weeks in Africa. He talked about their joy and big smiles.
I am glad you have the chance to go back. You are special and loved!!
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