As I was blessed this weekend to have a "work retreat" with Karen....we got to reminiscing about Tanzania and our recent trips to this country. First thing out of our mouths was just how very blessed we feel to be called to this mission field. Second thing as we sorted through notes, folders, writings, it became apparent that we kept finding the "brown envelope" that EVERYONE carries in Tanzania.
Here is what I mean. In our country, anything gets transported by some sort of bag. Papers get put into folders or binders which then go into a "briefcase" or computer. We have ways to get whatever paperwork we need to transport easily to its destination. Other items that need to get from point A to B go in any other sort of bag.
In Tanzania, people carry brown envelopes for everything. Our friend Elicana, came to meet us in March. He brought with him, a small notebook, his passport, and a few small papers and hidden under his Masai clothing was the "brown envelope" We asked him what he had in this envelope and he showed us that this goes with him anywhere he goes. It was very worn with the corners ripped and torn but it was his safe place for all his belongings.
Looking around and watching people that walk on the streets or in the market are brown envelopes. I imagine it is wonderful to have their "papers" tucked safe into this envelope? We just noticed that EVERYONE carries one with them in some capacity.
We decided in March that we should have "the brown envelope" as well so we purchased a couple to put our important documents in too. We put them in our purses and you know what? I always knew where my money was and where I could find my receipts.
Tanzanians have a wonderful idea with the "brown envelope" and we appreciate you showing us this small way to make our lives simple and uncomplicated. Keeping our "stuff" tucked into the brown envelope is now reminding us of our time in Tanzania and it is flooding back memories of how this important envelope is all they have!
We pray for you Tanzania everyday.
Blessings and peace ~
"The Happiest Day for Simeon and Sula"
Children's Book
Simeon and Sula Dolls
Purchase and help those who suffer
Hajiba (middle) widow who made dolls
Supporting the widows in Kenya
Simple Hope East Africa Director Charles Mpanda
Dedication of SHEA Food! Thank you Country Director Charles Mpanda for your help!
Building a bridge of love between our worlds
Hand in hand we help each other!
Matonyak Orphanage
Sharing Love with an orphan
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