Manome Voninahitra

The title of this blog translates to “giving honor” in Malagasy. I wanted to pay a tribute to all of the people in my life. Some may not even know that they are in it, but I pray that one day everyone who needs to see this post will one day do so, and know that it is for them. I am abundantly blessed, and I couldn't possibly express the extent of the gratification I feel. In a place of seclusion from the majority of the world, I feel as if I have seen it all. Culture, diversity, and joy envelopes every sunrise and shines through each soul. Being here I have felt safe, and at peace in every moment. It is a rare thing, in this country’s time of political stress. In no way does it compare to last year, but the course is not yet finished. I was protected by many, and two: God with my heart and mind, and Lytah, our guide, with my physical being. Lytah and all of our drivers, and of course Karen and Kelly, played such sufficient roles in my experience on this trip. Without each of them, I would not have been able to travel to over eight different cities all over the country, and greet the wonders of life. Madagascar is an immensely unique place, and it is worth ten times more recognition than it receives. Eighty percent of the plants and animals that inhabit Madagascar are only found here, and that is just among the facts. Every child told me a story, every bird sang me a song as it flew through the sky, and it is all so much deeper than the words that I can write. So now, I am leaving with the sadness that comes with the departure of home, and the excitement of starting a-new. My life is forever changed, and I am content, and satisfied because I know that my time here is not finished. I will be in the presence of the Malagasy people as I walk among the masses of my own, and change will be the shadow of time. I hope that this blog has served its’ purpose; to be a place where the mind can rest, and cultivate among the pages of one who has only the words; to love, to mend, to cry, and to share a story. Thank you, family, friends, and those I have not yet met. I am eternally grateful.