We arrived in Addis Ababa after night fall so it wasn't until the next morning that I got my first good look at the city. I peeked out the window and this was my view:
Mind you, what you are looking at above is quoted as the "most exclusive and peaceful residential neighborhood in the city." And after spending a week there, I found it to be true.
But back to my initial reaction when I first looked outside - tears welled in my eyes. As much as I thought I was prepared, I wasn't. Nothing can prepare you for what Addis Ababa is. My theme for this adoption has been, "It's a Small World After All", but I admit, being there in Ethiopia felt like a whole other world. So different from what I have known here in America.
The pictures above don't even begin to convey the realities of what I witnessed. Mostly because I tried to be courteous of the people on the streets and not photograph them (Except the girl above. But we bought gum, so it's all good.) But let me tell you, the streets are flooded with beggars and peddlers. From the elderly, to children, to many that were in wheelchairs due to deformities. They sit in the cold rain - many times with no shoes and rarely with enough to keep them warm. It was heart wrenching to see. Thousands upon thousands, living in poverty.
It definitely caused me to reflect, re-evaluate, and gain a greater appreciation for the standard of living that I enjoy here in America. Shelter, food, clothing, healthcare, water, safety - even traffic lights. I cherish it all.
Donald and I returned home more determined than ever to take Alexandra and Lorelai with us when we return to Ethiopia this Fall. It is so hard for them to find perspective in our day to day lives. I think going to Addis Ababa will change their lives forever.
Needless to say, we applied for their passports. Yesterday.
More to come...
