Gifts Feb 2

Gifts

   The whole idea of gifts here in Kenya is so different than America. In America when we think of a gift we think about things you could use but not necessarily use. You know what I mean? Things like glasses, a pot or pan, stacking baskets, or even a plastic chair aren’t something we, as American’s don’t think of when we want to give a gift. BUT here in Africa people just think differently. At a recent gathering of the teachers at Legacy Schools there were gifts given to all of the staff. Now I had no idea what to expect, but I knew the gifts weren’t going to be gift cards to Olive Garden. The gifts were everyday items that are constantly needed in the African home. Sets of glasses, pots for cooking, stacking baskets, blankets, coffee mugs, and a chair were the gifts and everyone was glad to get something. 

  African’s aren’t a group of people who even try to keep up with the Jones’. They aren’t concerned what they might have, but rather they are thankful for what they do have. I think that’s something we American’s are lacking in. Many of us want to keep up with our neighbors, friends, and relatives. We want the nice car, furniture, house, clothes, and lets not forget the ability to go out to eat whenever we want. That is so NOT how the Kenyan’s think here in Kitale.  Just having a roof over their heads is something that many many Kenyan’s are thankful for. There are people here who live in mud houses, but it’s not what you might think either. Don’t think a mud house is dirty, but it’s far from the truth. Everything is in it’s place and everything has a place to be. From what I’ve seen firsthand is awe inspiring. And to look at many Kenyan’s here you would think they live in a very nice environment simply because how they dress. People here dress very well. Everything is clean and ironed. To look at them you would not even guess they live in a mud house. Can you imagine being content in your life that not having a car or brick house doesn’t matter to you? As American’s I think often we lack in the contentment catagory in our lives. OH we say we are content, but if that is so, why do we look at the ads and gaze over the 52” TV’s? Then why do we always want the new model of our favorite car, or even wish we had that brand spankin’ new 2011 Chevy Camaro with a manual transmission, and loaded to the gills. I hate to admit it but I’m guilty of that one. 

  When you think about getting a wedding gift for a couple what do you think about? China, stemware, items for the kitchen or household. Well the same is almost true here in Kenya, except for the China and stemware. So as the wedding of Sammy and Eve approaches I know I need to get a gift, but what? That’s my problem. What do I get them? I’ve thought about it and contemplated what would be appropriate and yet also needed in their home. So here’s my idea. I personally think it’s a great idea and I don’t think it’s ever been done here in Kenya or Africa for that matter. I’m going to buy a beautiful basket and then fill that basket with stuff Sammy and Eve can use, like tea, instant coffee, salt, sugar, rice, beans, oven mitts, glasses, a small tea pot, sugar bowl, and misc stuff that would fit in the basket. All the stuff that a couple can use in their home. I think it’s a great idea, and Alice tells me she’s never seen anything like it in Kenya before. So this Saturday I’m off to Kitale Town to purchase the items for the wedding gift for Sammy and Eve.