One of the things I was really looking forward to when
returning in August was starting a “Girls Gathering.” I didn’t know what it
would look like exactly but with the input of the 11 girls, we now have a
plan. We’ll meet at my house every
other Friday after class. Tea and dessert are a must.
At our first gathering two weeks ago, I provided a few
varieties of green tea from the states.
This was out of their comfort zone. What’s also out of their comfort zone is drinking tea
without sugar. When we ran out, I
encouraged them to try powdered sugar.
They thought I was crazy but gave it a try anyway; it was that or
nothing. The girls chipped in money
to buy “biscuits,” which are basic cookies sold just about anywhere. Today, they’re providing African tea,
but I’m providing dessert – chocolate zucchini bundt cake!
More importantly, the purpose of us gathering together
bi-monthly is to provide a place for the girls to get to know each other on a
deeper level. Already, they
support each other academically.
But why not get to know each other emotionally and spiritually, as
well? Being together, sharing
in struggles, encouraging each
other: this is what make friendships rich. Plus, life is hard, and we need each other through all
seasons, both good and bad.
Two weeks ago, the girls shared about their families. This week, we’re moving onto where we
are in life right now and how we need support, specifically. One of the girls mentioned studying
Proverbs 31 in the coming weeks, so it looks like that’s where we’re headed!
