For the love of my country...KENYA!

Kenya is one word.....beautiful!

That I cannot explain until one has personally taken a trip to KENYA because somethings are better when experienced.

It is indeed sad to know what kind of a picture the Western world paints in regards to Developing countries! Yes there is poverty,Yes there are diseases, Yes there are people who go days without food....but dont we see that everywhere?

The difference is the fact that there is a greater gap in regards to social classes in Developing countries.

I have met alot of people who have admitted that before going to Africa, they were ignorant and closed minded but after taking a vacation trip or a study abroad trip to Africa, their whole perspective changed.

I will talk about the beautiful side...because they do not show that on TV. I will talk about Gods blessings that are so often overlooked. Kenyans have a big heart becuase we are very diverse! We have tons of different cultures and a wide array of languages! Even though tribalism still remains a monster among different tribes, in most cases you will find people having a good time, sharing and living life to the fullest!

I am pretty impressed with the current wave that is sweeping the young generation.Even though technology has created a global culture that has brough about Western Influence, there is still somethin unique that defines KENYANS!

In the music scene, the rise of NEO SOUL is incredible!...with bands such as Sauti Sol, Music is taking an amazing turn! The fashion world is also stunning! Much influence has come from western fashion but that has always been there. We do not wear skins and no we do not walk around tied up in sisal skirts!...Lets talk about hair... I miss the luxury of gettin my hair done every week by a stylist!!...I miss having my pedicure and manicure done in the comfort of home thanks to a stylist who would not mind! Life is simple and beautiful, but it is sad to know that because of cheap labor, the 21st century generation is a spoilt generation! The only time we got to do things for ourselves was in boarding school where breaking rules was a major mistake! On the other hand, holiday time meant sleeping and hanging out with friends while the maids clean the house, do laundry and cook!(Even for middle class and lower middle class, employing a house helper is very much affordable). With no car at sixteen, that does not leave one miserable and bored! Thank God for Matatus! Matatus are public transport vehicles that are HIGHLY PIMPED OUT!...The music is blazing and the flat screen tv's are becoming very popular in Matatus! With no rush (welcome to the world of African timing) waiting for your favorite matatu is not a big deal. Once can stand at a bus stop for an hour waiting for something fancier and "comfy".That, by the way, is something unique from other forms of public transportation in other countries...I say...Creativity defines the people of Kenya!

During holidays,groups of friends....(while we were Growing up it was family vacations but being adults,independence is key!)...get together and plan trips to the Coast...YES!...partying is something that is WIDELY embraced with much enthusiasm! Mombasa hakuna matata! Package deals for hotel rooms have become a booming business not only from tourists but also from locals!

I cannot forget to mention what we are known for! Safaris!

No we do not live with lions in our backyards, but if you enjoy wild life there is a choice of 59 National parks! This is an amzing experience! One that should be included in your bucket list my friend!

With alot of foreigners returing to settle down in Kenya, it has become normal!!...Even before I left five years ago, going to the mall felt like i was in a city in the USA...I can only imagine how much more diversity has flourished five years later!

Entertainment spots are becoming high end as people embrace more luxuries! Casinos are sprouting and that speaks for itself!

The latest fuzz according to friends and newspapers is weddings! Hiring Helicopters to make grand entrances to weddings is becoming a new trend! With that said, my wedding will be in KENYA!

We cannot forget to mention the 21st century slang..."sheng", wich is corrupted English mixed with Swahili our National Language! My siblings and I can talk about our parents without them figuring out a thing! In the recent years, Sheng has advanced to the point where many are debating whether it should be accepted as a language of its own!

Sigh...I have said much about Kenya and I do not think I can say it all! A place where happiness is not found in the big things but in the small blessings bestowed upon us as a NATION by THE Almighty God...

I look forward to volunteering in KENYA in the Summer, as I enjoy a beautiful vacation with family and friends!God grant me this one wish for 2011!Amen!

As for you my friend....if you want to fall in love with happy people, with exotic foods and with nature, this should be on your bucket list as soon as possible! Your perspective towards life will be transformed...FOREVER!

Be blessed!