Jim's Journal from April 30th, 2006 -Visiting Fulani Villages

The Brazilians and I have been trying to visit all the surrounding Fulani villages so they can know what sort of ministry they can do near Kayes. On Tuesday this week we drove out to Pomiel, about 8 kms. I had hardly ever been there on my own so I missed it by a few kms and had to be directed back by a passing shepherd. We only spent less than a couple hours, not enuf for attaya even. At first they must have thot we were tourist for after greetings and water we were sort of ignored. The men were working on a hut, and the women were occupied with kids, but they slowly warmed up to us once one or two recognized me. It’s nice to have a team along for these visits, the girls handle the women, and we guys play tapes and read with some.

Recently we’ve gone out to Duduya, another week to Segué, another to Kerisiani, etc. We don’t necessarily know people in them, either Oumar or I seem to know someone, but it works out to friendly visits each time, PTL. All are within reach by bicycle. The youngest of the Brazilian women, Aliné, is the best among all four in languages and has even begun to teach reading & literacy, each nite at the Red Sea bookroom near the Daral.