Some of my most amazing experiences here have been getting to meet the families of the people around us. We've been welcomed into the homes of neighbours and coworkers. Somehow back home, we've forgotten the culture of paying calls on neighbours and friends but here its alive and well. We've been invited for sit, eat and celebrate with people who barely know us and yet welcome us into their homes.
The other week, we were invited by a coworker to the confirmation party for his niece. We trekked out on the buses for an afternoon of food, talking and celebration in honour of the lovely girl in white.
The celebration was held at the family home, which is lived in despite being under construction. At first glance it can seem like these are hard living conditions. But when we tell the family that people can't afford to build their own home in Canada, we find ourselves the object of pity about the cost of housing in Canada. A definite lesson in perception!
Everyone seems invited to the party. We met an endless array of relatives, friends and neighbours. From very small children to community and church elders, everyone ate and chatted together for the afternoon.
The kick off of the celebration was the champagne (or some fizzy wine equivalent). The bottle was blessed by all the guests and then shaken up. Apparently it doesn't really count unless it makes a really good pop! (ours hit the roof so we were good)
And then there was cake...
Which was served piece by piece to the guests. Do I look slightly awkward... well you try eating cake off a toothpick!
Last comes gifts. The collection was opened to help fund continued education. The girls father proudly declared that through her they would be able to finish their family home.
It can be a bit scary venturing into people's homes and unknown environments, but in the end I always find a warm welcome and a really good time.
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