More Than the Sahara.

        There are no words in the English language that could begin to describe this place. Although I got here just a few days ago, I am head-over-heels in love with this country, its people, and the incredible experiences we’ve had so far. Everything we’ve experienced has exceeded all of my expectations, including those of the appearance of Arusha. 
     I knew Africa was more than just a desert, but I never took the time to picture anything but the Sahara. Arusha has to be one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been. Instead of seeing a sandy abyss and cacti for as far as the eye can see, I can’t look more than ten feet until I see a giant tree, grass, and flowers. The air always smells of a campfire, and the rain smells like flowers and cut grass, much sweeter than the rain back home.
     The experiences we’ve had here are also much different than anything I’ve ever been a part of. Cradle of Love was the first of many adventures that I’ll remember for the rest of my life. Cradle of Love is an orphanage for babies and toddlers who’ve either been given up or their family can’t care for them. While we were there, most of my time was spent in the nursery with a year old baby named Christopher. In the few hours I spent with him, I discovered that his mother had died in childbirth, and his father gave him up because he couldn’t care for him. When the Dadas told me about Christopher’s past, I wanted to burst into tears. Not only because I had gotten so attached to him, but because I knew he had no one to take care of him or love him. It was sad to think that he wouldn’t have his mom or dad around to watch him grow up.
     All of the people I’ve met are extraordinary examples of human beings and can be described as colorful, welcoming, and kind. From the shopkeepers in the bustling market; to the Maasai welcoming us into their bomas, these people have taught me a vital lesson. People matter more than time. Seeing as this comes from a country buzzing with life, it must be important.
     I am over nine thousand miles from my home, yet Arusha, a city, lying at the base of Mount Meru, has quickly become a place that feels like home.