Friday, May 28, 2010

Just when you think you have reached the end of your rope, when frustrations pile on top of one another and you're ready to throw in the towel, it really is miraculous the difference that giving it one more day can make. On our last (and pretty much only) day out in Malawi, we were granted with one of those days.

It began with a leisurely walk to the cathedral, "probably the most impressive building in Blantyre" according to Lonely Planet. After a few obligatory photos, we ventured inside and met an American pastor who has been living and spreading the gospel in Malawi on and off for the past 20 years. A lovely woman, we chatted about our travels and trials before she prayed over our trip and invited us to her home for lunch. Over some fresh pineapple, egg salad sandwiches and chocolate cake, we learned much about Malawian people and their culture. It was an incredible afternoon, and we were super disappointed to be unable to accept her invitation to join her on a visit to a local village this weekend.

Envigorated by our pleasant morning, the obvious next stop was a tour of the Carlsberg brewery. Accompanied by a friendly group of peace corp volunteers, we enjoyed free bottomless beers into the evening. For the first time in a while, it felt like we were back in stride. Exploring...meeting...chatting...learning...traveling.

Did we begin to feel like perhaps we were a wee bit hasty in booking a flight to Tanzania? Kinda. But, everything happens for a reason. And we are feeling really good about whatever lies ahead.



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