Monkey Trousers

     Today I was reminded to enjoy the little things in life. The last few days I've been tired, inexplicably lacking energy. By noon today I was ready to lay down with a book – for those that know me and my relationship to reading books for pleasure at home during daylight hours, you probably think I must be sick. I doubt it, but I picked up some malaria cure at the pharmacy today just in case. Its good to keep it on hand.

     There are times we are full of energy and times we lack. At Bible study last night we discussed how occasional unexplained exhaustion seems to be a part of living here. “I get moody and tired – I'm not usually like that,” explained a friend. I'm not alone. We decided to blame the climate.

     It is in these times of struggle that God shows us the little things to remind us of the beauty, joy, and hilarity of life. Perhaps they are always there, we just pay more attention to grasp a hold of them. Living cross culturally can bring up an extra dose.

     As I trudged through the heat, seeking a place to sit with coffee, internet, and electricity (power is out again), I saw two men preparing to mount the back of a boda-boda (motorcycle taxi). Normally, this wouldn't catch my eye. Today is a holiday - one of the men was rather elderly and wearing the Muslim ankle-length tunic. Curiosity caught me as to if he was going to have to have to ride “like a woman” (side-saddle). I should have known better. As he lifted the tunic slightly to get onto the cycle (like a man), my eyes were delighted to find he was wearing monkey trousers. Many things travel to the markets here and get reused in a variety of ways. Why not wear monkey pajama pants under your tunic? I mean no disrespect. I think its great, just delightfully unexpected.

     On days we are tired or struggling, may we remember that God is with us. He may bring us reminders in different ways- a flower, a breeze, or monkey trousers. May we not be too busy or serious to take notice.