TIA – This is Africa. It’s incredibly hard to believe our team has been in Africa for less than a week. We’ve seen God do some amazing things, been touched deeply by the resiliency of the Rwandan people and dared to believe there is hope for this beautiful country. We’ve also had a lot of fun. A few little TIA tips:

- When in doubt, sing. You can never go wrong by starting a song. No instruments needed. Clapping required. Don’t worry about knowing all the words. Singing “God is good” can last for about 5 – 10 minutes if you repeat it enough.

- Africa can be really hot and really cold. I’m in a sweatshirt and could see my breath outside last night.

- If anyone ever tries to get you to invest in bringing the Adkins diet to Africa, run. Meals are one carb fest after another. It’s possible to blend rice, pasta and potatoes all into the same meal.

- The power might go out unexpectedly. Don’t be surprised when no one else is surprised.

- If there are large birds making a lot of noise on the roof of the building where you are meeting, it’s perfectly acceptable to walk out of the meeting and throw rocks at them. For what it’s worth, my new friend Kayijuka has a really good arm!

- Fanta. Fanta is the official beverage of Africa – just make sure you use a straw!

- I like the place we’re staying in now. The previous place gave us the chance to practice the Africa art of a “bucket bath.” I’ll let you figure that one out on your own – but all you need to know is sitting right there in the name.

- Driving seems to defy both the rules of the road and the rules of physics. Road trips are my favorite. You have to come within about 5 inches of hitting a person before they even flinch. Even at 5 inches, they might not. Don’t ask how I know that, but I promise you it’s true!

TIA. I love it over here. And I can’t wait to see you DC Gathering people next week!