The importance of good friends cannot be overstated. They are a precious gift, indeed. And, the Calvin program has several great friends in Accra.
After my disappointment at CFAO motors a couple weeks ago, we searched for different service for Calvin's Mitsubishi Lancer. Friend of the program Michael pointed us to Danestrol Auto Centre and introduced me to Emmanual this morning. (Personal introductions are extremely important in a society that runs on relationships!) Emmanuel noted that all four tires were well past their sell-by date; they had “expired.” After a couple hours, we had new wheels with a complete set of wheel nuts. The car is a little safer now! Thanks, Emmanuel!
For the weekly student dinner, we invited Michael (with family) and another great friend of the program Samuel. Both guests served as cultural interpreters during various portions of Tracy's January-term class. Samuel went with us to Akropong. And Michael will travel with the students to the Volta region in a few weeks. They are precious. They are fantastic gifts to Calvin College and to the students.
All of which raises the questions: how good of a friend am I? are you? We should aspire to be as gracious, welcoming, and hospitable as Calvin’s friends in Accra.
—Matt
