Unexpected Opportunities

I met a couple of curious Egyptian girls on the way to meeting a friend today. I was headed out for the day to have breakfast and talk business with a girl named Jessica who is helping me create and run a 5 day children's program/conference at the end of this month. We have less than three weeks to finish planning all of the lessons and activities, and put together everything we need. The time is getting short, and there is so much to do. So today we planned to spend the morning and early afternoon working out some of the details and logistics.

I set out on my way just before nine and planned on taking a taxi to her apartment. However, as I was walking to Road Nine, where I usually snag a cab, I heard a couple girls' voices behind me. I kept walking until they started trying to get my attention. People here will often call to foreigners in that way, with a quick "PSST..." noise to get them to turn around. I usually hesitate to give them my attention because many times they will just ask you for money. This time though, the girls were persistent, and eventually I heard an "EXCUSE ME...." so I turned around. They were two young Egyptian girls, dressed in their headscarves and long sleeved tunics. They looked like they may still be in school or just finishing up with school. They started talking to me, and surprisingly, they spoke English very well. They told me they just wanted to introduce themselves. They asked where I was from and where I was staying. Turns out they live just down the road from me. Said they had just decided they needed to get out and enjoy a walk for some exercise and would I let them walk with me?

Well, RARELY EVER does such an opportunity arise for me. In fact, that has been one of my greatest frustrations since I moved here to Cairo. I work for an international church- geared toward the foreigners who live in the Maadi community. My job requires me to work in the office from 9-5pm five days a week, and so my actual interaction with the Egyptian people and culture is limited. Primarily I work with foreigners of the same language and religious background. But my heart wants to engage the culture and interact with those who are different than I. What little interaction I do get with the people is hindered by the great language barrier that exists between us.

But here were two young girls, OUTSIDE my working environment, not from the same background, completely engaged in the Egyptian culture, but who spoke English wanted to talk with me. So, needless to say, I nixed the taxi idea. I enjoyed walking with them and getting to know them a bit. They are both 18 years old- full of life and enthusiasm. They helped me find my way to where I was going, and even paid for me to give my friend a call when my phone ran out of credit. They asked for my email and wondered if we could get together again. I do not know what will come of it all, but it seems as if my Dad may have dropped this little beginning in my lap. I have been intentional before about asking him for Egyptian friends outside of my work environment. And you can ask that with me! :)

And also remember to ask Him about this retreat coming up March 25-30. It will be called "Objective Detective" and we will be "uncovering evidence of the unseen Dad." :) Each day will be a different character trait. Day 1: Dad is holy. Day 2: Dad is in control. Day 3:Dad "sees me." Day 4: Dad is good. Day 5: Dad is love. Think and ask about these characteristics as we prepare for a great week and wait to see what He does. Thanks!