Often we throw things away, only to find someone looking in the garbage to see if there is anything they can use-butter containers, milk jugs, things we just take for granted. Usually they will ask if they can take it. We have also gone through our books and clothes since being here. We will usually give them away-to the basic schools around, to the ladies, to John, to the church. They are always appreciative. But sometimes we don’t give away, we sell. I had several nicer containers that I didn’t use or need. I could have given them to the ladies, but instead I charged 1000 kwacha each-right now about 20 cents. Fair price they told me. They don’t always want handouts-they have respect for themselves too, they are not just looking for freebies.
Usually if we do give a gift, sooner or later we will get something back-boiled peanuts, corn, whatever. John has brought us chili peppers from his garden too. It’s about friendship, respect. Sometimes we give, and don’t get anything back, and that’s okay too.
The other day Witness brought me a broom that he had made. It was very nice work. He said at market it would sell for about 4000 kwacha. That is also the cost of a pile of tomatoes, so it is a big deal to them. It was an exchange of gifts between friends. He works for Gospelink sometimes, yes, but he also is Brian’s friend who sometimes just comes to hang out. I had to get after him though. His wife is due to have a baby in the next month and he hadn’t even told us yet! Maybe they just don’t tell or get as excited as we do right away due to high mortality rates. Carol (Lackson, the night guard’s wife), Patrick’s wife (lives down the road) are also due any time. Babies Babies!
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