Day One

Day one in Mazar-I-Sharif:     

We arrived back in Mazar last night, greeted by a frosty chill and inches of mud covering the streets. After getting off of the plane, we waited in that same mud for our luggage to come on a cart pulled by a man. It was quite hilarious to see all of the people trying to pull their luggage out, fighting each other for space and a chance to grab their bag before it landed in the mush. This time around, I found the situation more comical than anything. The inefficiencies that are so common here are also the things that make Afghanistan such a fascinating place. I admit, I get annoyed by the reckless driving and the long haul back to the car, carrying luggage on my back, but somehow this time it is worth it.

I am finding that humor is the thing that is going to keep my spirits up here. The hard stares and oppression that characterize this place are very real, but they are by no means all that this place has to offer. I encountered many pleasant things on our trip through Afghanistan. Maybe I was less sensitive to everything this time, but I found that even the men were kind. I would have never, for a second, expected this. I think that God was blessing us with a new perspective. There is such a thing as a flower amidst the rubble. Even when we expect the worst, we might be surprised to find that kindness can come from even the poorest and the least fortunate. A smile can emanate from what the world considers despicable and broken. What an amazing lesson to learn on my first day here - that we as broken human beings can smile and laugh even through our tears. I don't know that I would have the grace and strength to be kind if I grew up in a place like this. In fact, I am pretty sure that I would spend my life feeling sorry for myself and having contempt toward others. These new people and their unique revelations, talents and love are so fascinating. What light lies hidden in some faces here; it juxtaposes the darkness on the streets.

Yes, day one has been a success and I plan to have many more like this even when the lights are dim and there isn't much reason to be here. I know these days will come. I hope to find little triumphs in each day. May they spring up like wells whether overflowing or just a little trickles. This is what I'm here for.