When planning my stay in Kenya, I was trying to find accommodations in which I would be living with other expatriates from around the world. I thought it would be great to explore Kenya with other people who are new to the country. FORTUNATELY, due to a lack of funding for my stay in Kenya, I had to find alternate accommodations.
I didn’t know it then, but living with a Kenyan family instead of other internationals put me in a special position. Instead of roommates, I have a family. They teach me the language, share secrets of the land, open my eyes with unique cultural insights and genuinely care for my wellbeing. My host mother and I have a really great relationship started. As she told one of her friends, “it was love at first sight.” I really enjoy her company and I am sure I help to make the home feel less empty while her girls are away at boarding school. Lillian has a great personality and I really appreciate her reflective attitude about life as we think in parallel most of the time.
If all of my plans went according to my original design, I would have never lived with a local Kenyan family and would have missed out on so much cultural integration. Most people I meet are convinced that I have lived here before and are so surprised by my comfort and natural existence in Kenya. I enjoy the reactions after I reveal my short 1 month residency.
I have a coworker who has become part of my “Kenyan family.” Her name is Stella Wangechi and is a lawyer with the National Commission who works in my department. More than anything, though, Stella is my partner-in-crime. We dance, drink, laugh, cry and pick on each other like we have been friends for a lifetime. Stella has been my modern guide to Kenya, filling me in on the hottest spots to dance, the best places to shop, and how to NOT act like a stingy, stuck-up American.
The other night, I expressed my appreciation for her companionship and then asked her what she did for fun before I came to Kenya. She reminded me of her pregnant best friend and (recent) ex-boyfriend who used to occupy most of her free-time. She said it was a life coincidence that all of these events happened when I came here which allowed for us to become so close so quickly.
Stella chalked it up to coincidence but I like to refer to destiny or fate. Whatever happens, however it happens, let it happen because it may just lead you to a better place than you could have planned for or imagined. I’m a natural optimist and think life is more fun when you find everything new and exciting instead of disappointing and unfair. Look on the brighter side because the sun will come out tomorrow. :D
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