This whole year has been full of new experiences and adventures. Last week was no exception. I had the chance to head out to a friend's family's shamba (farm) in Kilindi district. It was a 14 hour trip to get there on 4 buses but surprisingly, we arrived feeling quite relaxed. I think it must've been the soothing bumps on the road.
Kilindi isn't marked on this map...but if you draw a line on this map about an inch left of Korogwe, that's where it is. As you can see...its not really a metropolis. In fact the closest little shop to where we stayed was several kms walk away. The people who live in these parts truly live off the land.
Its humbling to see firsthand just how happy people can be who have so little. Our friend Hussein's family moved out to Kilindi because farm land was far cheaper than in Arusha and they knew it was a way that they could provide a good life for their family. Materially they don't have much, but in reality they live a rich life. They grow all they need to survive on their farm. They work alongside each other every day; Mum, Dad, Brothers, Daughter in laws, neighbours. In everything that I saw, this is a family and community that loves, respects and looks out for one another. They are gracious hosts. I have never eaten that much in my life! They love to laugh and love nothing better than a good story. They truly live a rich life.
Hussein's mum took it on herself to teach us village ways. So for a couple of days we were properly immersed in 'village school'. Harvesting, preparing food, cooking...the days for women here revolves around the next meal of the day. She chatted away to us in Swahili and it was a pleasant surprise to understand plenty.
All in all, Kilindi hasn't made me want to move to the bush permanently. But it has certainly given me a new appreciation for the people who live this life. And just in case it ever does become home...at least I now have Shamba-life 101 under my belt!
