It's is funny the things you miss when they are gone or not available. Before coming here I probably would have said that cold showers and bugs were things I really was not so thrilled about as part of my volunteer experience. Surprisingly I have found that cold showers don't bother me and bugs are just bugs. They are everywhere so you just learn to ignore them. Although I will admit I am not quite so calm when frogs jump at me in the shower; then I have to stifle a scream. I have found that I don't even miss television, which still surprises me a little as I was quite certain I was a addict.
I do miss however many comforts and conveniences from home. A fan is something for which I would be willing to pay many thousands of shillings because I am always so hot. Tropical fruits are plentiful here, but what I wouldn't give for a nice cold apple. Previously I never worried about whether there would be soap or gloves when I went to work, I took it for granted that they would be there. So entitled was I that I would be perturbed when the previous shift left rooms without my size of gloves. I miss that certainty that I would have the needed supplies available when I got to work. Now I am thrilled when there is one box of gloves for the whole 40 bed ward.
The realization that Christmas is just a few hours away is what started me on this train of thought. So many Christmas traditions that I cannot partake in this year. No Advent wreath, no familiar hymns at church, no lessons and carols, no cool weather or snow, no Christmas family gathering. I miss the familiar sights, sounds and smell that I associate with this time of year, especially the noisy and familiar sight and sounds of family.
However, like at home, patients need care on Christmas just a much as any other day. Being a nurse on a holiday is a familiar and comfortable role. As for the rest, I guess I will learn how Christmas is done in Karungu, Kenya.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
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