Silver Lining

10 Tips to Finding the Silver Lining in Africa:

1. Instead of being surprised when there are lizards, bugs, or mice in your house, think of it as normal. Think of it as a nice surprise when there are none.
2. Think of bug spray as a new favorite perfume.
3. When your skin is stained orange from the dirt, you can at least admire your new chaco “tan” line.
4. Start being a fan of riding windows open. It lessens the smell of those who choose to forgo deodorant.
5. When people point and yell “Mzungu!” Just smile and wave, as it is the closest to celeb status you may every reach.
6. When riding through rural villages, appreciate a small break from the need to capture images on your camera. (Unappreciated “snaps” could result in prison.. or stoning.)
7. When riding in a car, look at the cars on the other side of the street and focus on what would be the diver’s seat in America. Then watch the cars move with “no driver.” This will provide at least five minutes of entertainment at a time.
8. Instead of complaining about the bumpy roads and crazy drivers, think of it as a free mini roller coaster ride. Maybe put your hands up once in a while just for kicks.
9. Instead of being annoyed with the street vendors at your window in traffic, play a game where you talk in different accents, or have starring contests. You will completely forget your in stand still traffic.
10. When bit by a mosquito just think, that mosquito probably needed that blood more than I did. Unless you get Malaria, then there is no silver lining.