Today was a quiet news day for us – not by choice. We were without electricity from midnight last night until the middle of this afternoon. Power outages here are more the norm for our lives. We always have plenty of candles and flashlights handy, but we are without the TV. There were scheduled sports events at school which I will write more about later.
Ban Ki Moon, the Secretary General of the UN was in town today to give assistance to the peace process. He must be quite effective because it appears there might just be some good news tonight – which is a very welcome event in our household and across this country. On both the CNN and BBC websites, they are reporting “BREAKING NEWS” that the two sides have reached an agenda for a peace deal. This is not the peace deal, but it is an agreement on how to move forward. Apparently, this spells out exactly what issues will be covered in the next 2 to 4 weeks as they broker peace.
The really good news is that there has been an immediate agreement to end inflammatory language, break up gangs who are using violence, and the right to peaceful assembly for all citizens. These gangs are actually being referred to as “militias”; however, one of these groups in particular, the Mungiki, has been in Kenya for some time. They operate more like the gangs that we read and hear about in the US, committing crimes and operating on the fringes of society.
I heard a story today that yesterday the Mungiki attempted to enter a community to rid it of Luo people. But, both the Luo and the Kikuyu people in that community refused to be intimidated and chased them out. If that kind of cooperation could spread throughout Kenya, the political negotiations would not be necessary. I believe the good and decent people of Kenya are weary of the intimidation and fear. I believe they are acting in faith to fight against corruption.
Prayers are being answered, and it certainly seems to be positive. Please pray that the negotiations will continue to be productive. Also, please pray for the people of this country. They need stamina and courage to continue.
On a family note, Sports Day was a great success. Mary Shea was first in the high jump and second in both of her races. She did quite well in the long jump, but we are not sure if she placed. Horace did quite well in his races also – coming in second and third place. I helped Parent Teacher Fellowship make and sell sandwiches for a fundraiser – we didn’t do so well as we were competing with Korean lunches. It was a wonderful day for me – just to return to a bit of the normal routine of family and school.
We appreciate your prayers and encouragement every day. Please keep them going. If you could also add our families in the U.S., that would also be greatly appreciated. They are stressed from what they see on the news, and our ability to convince them of our safety seems to be lacking somewhat.
We will continue to update you as we know more.
Praying for a peaceful weekend for you and for us,
Anne
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