Independence Day!

Happy Independence Day Madagascar! This year our island celebrated 52 years as an independent nation. And no celebration of this holiday would be complete without fireworks, glowsticks, food, and togetherness!

My sister is here visiting me, and my friend Tahina from Tana is also here! On Independence Day, the three of us went in the afternoon to hang out with the youth from our church. Many of them had already been cooking most of the day for that night. I was glad for Molly to be able to spend some time with girls she met and got to know last year.  We talked, and sang a few songs, preparing for the first item on our Independence Day agenda: the birthday party of an 80-year old woman! A few weeks ago, during the youth’s visiting outreach, we were invited unexpectedly into the home of two older women. We shared scripture with them, and sang and talked. One of the women told us that her birthday was during the Independence Day celebration, and invited us to come back.

About 20 of us gathered in her tiny house. I had thought that her family was doing a party for her, and we were just attending. Actually, we were the party! I was so proud of the youth when I realized this—they were giving up time in their celebration to share their youth and energy and lovely voices with an elderly woman—amazing! We prayed for her and sang several songs for her, and the youth prepared a gift for her as well.

From there, we walked downtown to where we could see the fireworks. It seemed that all of Toliara was walking that way with us, carrying glowsticks and colorful paper lanterns. Downtown was crowded and exciting—people milling around, setting off tiny firecrackers all over the place. We found a good spot, and the rest of our missionaries joined us, including my housemate, and her friend visiting from Tana.

The best part of the fireworks show was the people’s reaction—this was definitely the most appreciated and enjoyed display I’ve been to! After, we helped drive the youth back to the church, with all the food they had worked so hard to prepare. They intended to spend the night at the church, with a bonfire, songs and games. While one of our guys helped the youth guys get water for the night, we were able to stay for a little while around the bonfire. I was really happy to see how excited the youth were about their night together—this youth group really is an amazing example of the love and cooperation that is to characterize all believers!

Now, a few days later, our glowsticks are still glowing, the Madagascar flag is still flying outside our house, and we’re enthusiastically planning next week’s celebration of the American independence day!