Tanzania has an amazing soccer stadium that was a gift from China.

(Or rather, I should say “gift,” since I’m sure there were a great deal of strings attached.)

Gil has taken students to games many times before, but this was my first time.  Tanzania vs. South Africa, Women’s teams.  South Africa won, 5-2. 

Afterwards, Gil was surprised I knew the score, because really, for me the afternoon was about the time I got to spend with these two ladies.  Lauren (on the right) and I have worked together at HOPAC for three years.  Alyssa and I, Lord willing, will be working together in the next season of our ministry. Both are with our mission and are here long term.  Both are kindred spirits.  Whenever we are together, we talk about what God is teaching us and the problems teenagers face and African politics and poverty.  Both have experienced one of the hardest years of their lives, and both are living testimonies of the goodness and sovereignty of God.  Truly, their friendships are one of the biggest blessings in my life.