Saturday, March 8, 2008

Driver's Ed

"It's just like driving in the snow or ice," were the words I heard as we finally got ourselves unstuck from the mud for a second time. For this Florida girl, those words did not mean much.

We were on our way to the airport to pick up the new missionaries that arrived (which I am so excited about!), and Carolyn, the director's wife, thought it would be good if I learned to drive. I was excited about this new adventure too, until I remembered that it had rained the night before which does not mix well with our dirt roads. I did fine at first; I remained calm even when we got stuck the first time. God sent a Ugandan that Carolyn knew to help push us out. But, the second time, I got us in a little better. Carolyn got out, barefoot, to push the car. I'm telling you, this woman is amazing! She is not only a godly example, but so courageous. Five or six Ugandans came to help push us out. Finally, after she took over the wheel, we managed to get out. It was a rough start, but she didn't let me stop there. Once we got to drier ground, she made me take over the wheel again. It was a good first introduction to driving. It made the rest of the trip - dodging people, bikers, and oncoming cars - not seem so bad.

I don't know the next time I'll be driving, but I'll be sure it is during the dry season :) I think the coolest part was getting to experience the kindness of the Ugandans and their eagerness to help a poor Muzungu.

7 comments:

Unknown said...

This is priceless!

As if you weren't my chauffeur before, when you come back now I know you will be fully prepared to drive for me anytime, anywhere. No need for AAA--we've got Andrea!

Anonymous said...

Oh my goodness, what an exciting introduction to driving in Uganda!! At least you have experienced how driving is going to be. I am sure it makes you really appreciate driving here! How nice it is to see how the Ugandans help each other out! I love you so much and I cant wait to hear how the arrival of the new missionaries went! You are doing great with blogging! Love always, steph

Unknown said...

Can't believe I finally found the site. We have been thinking about what a wonderful thing you are doing for these children, and praying it is all that you were hoping it to be. Stay safe and we will keep checking in on you. We love you very much.
Aunt Ginny and Uncle Dennis

March 9, 2008 12;40 AM

Anonymous said...

Oh Dre, This has your name all over it! I can imagine your small smile that you gave Carolyn every time you got stuck! lol. I am so glad that you are starting to venture out of the village, that is so great! Well Dre, as always your posts always make me smile, and remember what a blessing is to have you in my life. Love you Dre. Talk to you later, Jonathan

Lois said...

I'm sorry, but this blog really should have a picture with it!! Unfortunately, that means I'm left to my own imagination...and the pictures in my mind are great!!! :-) You're quite the adventurer, girl!! XOXO Lois

Anonymous said...

fun stuff - i LOVE driving overseas (especially in africa on roads that many wouldn't even consider to be a road :)

Unknown said...

Driving in the snow is difficult, I did it for years. Sounds like we need to incorperate your driving experience into the Florida driver license test, just to give a little lesson to those who think driving is a breeze! ;^)Char