and peace,
a peace that passes beyond all earthly understanding.  
because it isn’t, it is not of this world, and you can see it miles away like a lighthouse shining forth for all to see for those who seek it.
it's the joy that we are called to have as those who are found in Christ, and yet we don't.
how is it that it's easier seen on the face of one who has no Everlasting Hope, that the one who has the promise of eternal life?

and people ask what i love about this place.
what is my favorite part.

and my mind goes blank, because frankly there is not much to like about it.
my flesh doesn't like the heat + the bugs + the buggy water + the hurt + pain that stares at me at every turn.

what do i like about burkina?
nothing, i don't like anything about it.

but i do love it.
i love burkina.
i love this place and the people that live in it.

i've tried, i really have.
i've wracked my brain every. single. time. after someone has asked that impending but terrible question
and i always come up with a blank state,
nervous smile
+ most times, end up with a random food item.


so i don't like this place.
i love it + the people that live in it.
i love the food that they eat + the languages that they speak.
the clothes that they wear + the places they live.

i love the little boy in the dirt + his mama that works.
the people that surround this life + invade the cracks.
even when they take away the plans for the evening that i had.