Tuesday, September 24, 2013

September 24, 2013: Let there be light!

Greetings to Friends & Family on this fine day from Juba, South Sudan.

Today marks two weeks to the day since I arrived to teach at Bishop Gwynne College (BGC) for the fall semester of 2013. When I was last here, I taught for the spring semester of 2012. Many things have happened in every aspect of life - personal & professional, here & there, now & then. I struggle to know where to begin. The big news of the day will serve to open a new chapter of life in Juba.

Power, power, wonder-working power! The city is providing electricity for the first time in more than a year. At the moment I'm sitting under a bright light that fills this small room.in the BGC compound where I'll be living for three months. The wall fan turns from side to side, stirring the cool night air with a gentle breeze. These things may seem commonplace to you dear reader, but I think they are cause for celebration. Alleluia! Here in Juba, we do not take these things for granted. Relying on solar power works in some measure. Thankfully.so, let me hasten to add. Still, I could get used to the ease of turning on the light or fan with so little effort. Simply turn on the switch!

Earlier today, someone said that the city officials want to make sure they are reelected. Providing the citizens with power may translate into votes, thus keeping the politicians in power. For whatever reason, it is a welcomed change. Please pray with us that this improvement will continue.

At the end of a long day, that's it for now, friends. Much more to come as the journey continues.
Grace & peace to you & yours,
Ellen+