I wonder if I could ever get used to the smell of this city. Sherry says it’s incense; I believe it’s somewhere between ammonia and urine–“urmonia,” how’s that? 🙂 From the view of my balcony, assorted trees give shade to makeshift tin houses for the poor and gated, upscale housing for the rich where guards are paid to sit outside all day for protection. Goats and donkeys graze on the small patches of grass alongside the road. In the backdrop apartment buildings stand, and wooden scaffolding–the skeletal frames of things to come, and in the remote distance the mountains of Addis.
The city started early. I don’t think it ever slept, really. Roosters know it’s morning, waking us to the cacophony of five million inhabitants. Somewhere out there, hammers beat out steady rhythms of men earning money from one of the few industries that is remaking the city of Addis. The locals, speaking their delightfully expressive language, walk muddy paths to work, most to little tin shanties that seem to line every street or road, paved and unpaved. From these shanties, they sell wares ranging from bottled water that has soaked in the sun’s rays to old fruit to cultural and modern clothing.
I wonder what I can leave this city! When my family vacationed in Asheville, NC, my son, a young lad at the time, and I left our names carved somewhere, I can’t remember where and probably would never be able to find it again. What could I leave here, Lord! In this city of Addis Ababa that needs so much? I believe that what we do impacts not just this life but eternity. How can I impact this city for you? How can I help to change one life that in turn will impact others? You brought me here so I know you will show me. One step toward my destiny is here. I open my spirit to you, Father! Show me. . .as I bless this city with my presence and therefore with more of Yours!
I attached pictures of the view from my balcony if you want to see them. Thank you for your prayers and for those of you who sowed into this trip. What I leave in this city, you also leave! 
Your presence there is enough. God is all over you and you impact so many people with your love and passion for God and to share His Love and compassion. Just do you. He uses you, keep your devotion to Him and let Him give of Himself through you.
This blesses me so much, Nia! Thank you! I pray all is well with you and that you’re still pressing into His presence! Love you!