Let me just take a minute to gush about the Smiths. They are the most fabulous couple ever. They are the sweetest, kindest, and most caring people. Doctor (as everyone calls him) has the best bedside manner I have ever encountered. Not only does he work 12 plus hours days (everyday- even Sundays), he takes the time to warmly greet every patient as he cares for them. What is so remarkable is the he also greets all the non patients sitting outside the wards. The love of Christ oozes out of him as he cares for the sick. His wife, "Ma", is equally as fabulous. She has a smile that radiates and she always has yummy cookies at hand- ask any kid (or adult for that matter) in Banyo. She is known for her generosity. Charlie adores her. She always wants to go to Ina's house and not just for the cookies. The other day she even named one of her babies "Ina." That is high praise!
So back to the event: it was a BIG deal. I mean big. Everyone dressed up in their nicest clothes. Charlie and I followed suit in our new dresses. I even wore makeup (the first time since arriving in Africa). And as you might notice, I had my hair did. All of the local people said that I was "woodi masin" (very beautiful)!
Did I mention it was a big deal? The Lamiido came and even spoke in English. He raved about the hospital and said it was "the hospital he and his family went to." Which is kind of controversial because there is also a government hospital in town and talks of building an Islamic hospital also. But he said he goes to the Baptist hospital because he heard the US President Ronald Reagan went to a Baptist hospital so if it was good enough for the President than it was good enough for him! He told everyone that his brother (the prior Lamiido ) had wanted a Baptist hospital in Banyo and worked to make it happen! (As a side note, people actually bow down in front of this King.)
There were other important people at the event. I love this picture below. The first row are the "Health Council of Banyo." They are all well respected Muslim leaders. The row right behind them are all Catholic priests. And all are at a Baptist hospital!
There was dancing and singing and presentation of fabulous gifts to the couple. And of course there was food, lots of food! It was a fabulous day!
What a wonderful celebration, may all the hospitals desire to work together for the health of the people in their community. I hope that having them join the celebration was a good sign for future realtionships.
ReplyDeleteWhat an interesting day THAT was, and an interesting report of it. Love the new duds you and Charlie are wearing, and the hair is awesome -- you're both woodi masin! Miriam
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