two different worlds

We decided to wander Saturday afternoon. Our spontaneous outing was led by a South African from the ship who knew how to bargain and maneuver the crowded streets. We walked along the port right next to the water of the Atlantic. Instead of pulling onto sand into the port, the boats pull into an area of garbage, old food, and even a few live pigs. I couldn't even see the water until fifty feet out. We then went to several markets, where vendors were selling everything from rice, to flip flops, to perfume. The markets were crowded and people were loudly bargaining and selling. People would see us and immediately make insistent efforts to sell us something; anything. Every once in a while a more practiced person in our group would bargain for cloth or a new belt.

Miles later, we finally made it to the Rivera, a five-star hotel in downtown Conakry. After walking miles along clay, trash-filled roads, we came to the gated hotel. Mercy Ships crew members can use the pool for free, so we quickly jumped in. Suddenly no one was dirty and everyone was comfortable. Sadly, I was one of the people that felt refuge and comfort in such a safe enviroment. Music was playing, wi-fi was available, and the water was cool and refreshing. I could hardly wrap my head around the fact that we were in the same city we just wandered through; a city of unfinished buildings, people on the streets, and garbage everywhere. And when I say everywhere, I mean everywhere. It almost looks like it is a component of the soil here.

I think I'm starting to feel the pace of the ship and life in Africa. I've been off the ship three times into Conakry, and each time it feels more natural. A few friends and I are learning a bit of French from a man from Togo that I work with in the galley. There are also endless opportunities here like going on a weekend trip to surrounding islands, visiting an orphange, or befriending a patient just two decks beneath us. I have about three days off every week and every evening off, so I'm looking forward to getting more involved. Hopefully these new things like going out into town will become second nature and I will be comfortable with the culture here. Pray for that, if you will. That the Spirit will work in me no matter where I am.. on the ship or out in Conakry. I have been here one week today and although it has felt much longer, I look back on the week and see how many people I have met and how much I look forward to the coming weeks. Here are a few pictures from our outing and a typical sunset from the ship.