Heartwarming hospitality

 A group of us (Kent, Cindy, Jennifer, Alan and Diane) traveled to Ihimbo Dispensary (medical clinic) today.  We were joined by Dr. Petro, Secretary of Health for DIRA (the Iringa Diocese) and Kirsten Levorson, Director of Bega Kwa Bega. We were warmly greeted by staff and given a tour and an update of the current usage of the Dispensary. This was personal for Alan and me, since Alan’s parents, Will and Jan Carlson, helped fund the facility, which was expanded and dedicated in 2009. Sixteen years later, the rooms are clean, records are organized and the facility is well maintained. We were impressed.

As moving as the arrival at Ihimbo Dispensary was, the best was yet to come. Next up was a service at the church at Ihimbo, where pastors and many church members gathered to extend their hospitality and appreciation for having the medical facility available to them. Alan and I were truly humbled and in awe of their gratitude. We were treated to the gift of song by two different groups. At the end, our entire group was given gifts from the local people to show their gratitude. Next up was lunch at the pastor’s house, prepared and served with love by community members.

It is hard to put into words all the emotions of today. People are people, no matter our skin color, nationality or financial status.  To respect each other and show love and gratitude is a a gift. I am joyfully overwhelmed and pray to show love and gratitude to others as we were shown today. 

Diane