Today was our last day at the missions base of Hamdallaye. We spent the morning in the Boké Market, a nearby town. Debra and I visited some leather workers and carpenters, both of which were exremely skilled and had plenty for us to look at. The bartering system was something to get used to. Although we were expecting and had heard plenty about it, it was still strange when it was actually happening. As a North American, it was all about price for me, and their original price wasn’t even that bad. For an African though, the bartering system is so much more than a price, it’s about the relationship between they and you. Everything here in Guinea is relational, especially buying and selling.
We picked up some gifts and souvenirs and also visited the Boké museum. The museum was an old building that had jail cells. The cells had been used to hold slaves bound for America before they were loaded onto ships. It was a reminder of the often somber history of the people around us. Debra and Faith Olver went off in search for some groceries although it is nothing like grocery shopping at home!
We had heard before we came that taking pictures and video in Guinea is often difficult. The people are often reluctant and the military is especially sensitive about it. Although it is not illegal it is often frowned upon and our desire is to be culturally sensitive. But we’ll do our best to have plenty to show when we get home. After visiting the Market Pete Olver and I worked on his water tower and then relaxed for the evening. Tomorrow we leave for four days of travelling to and visiting a few villages before heading to Conakry on Thursday. We’re not sure when our next chance will be to post, it may not be until we return but we’ll do our best!
Norm we are praying for you an your helth. May the Lorb bless you in this time of Travel and sickness. We love you!
-Gregg and Kathleen