An African proverb says, “Solidarity is the medication for wants.” I know this as an African. I have experienced different aspects of African hospitality and commonality. Our current language-learning experience in Kandi has given us new insights into this culture of helpfulness.

To make sure that we cover our daily language learning time—six hours for me, and three hours for Elmire—we decided to visit with eight different groups of at least four people. After the theory class with our language helper, we meet with two groups a day for practicum—one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Each group is always excited to have us. The people are not only happy to host strangers, they feel honored to help and assist. And when they can identify with us, they feel proud.

We always receive a special welcome when we introduce ourselves as Ivorian. This is because our home country is well-known in West Africa for its hospitality and support of foreigners. Some people we meet have visited Ivory Coast, and most people at least have a relative there, so they naturally identify with us and are happy to return hospitality to us. “Who knows?” they say to us. “Maybe someday we will find ourselves in your country.” So our desire to speak the local language with five to 10 people every day is easily satisfied.

Beside the eight groups, we have many individuals who have volunteered to come to our house to speak with us. Though their visits are not always convenient for us, it would be rude to turn them away.

Like Paul noted in Romans 8:28, we know for sure that God’s providence is always for our good. Thanks for your prayers and support!

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