Bahrain

The Pearl roundabaout, Manama, Bahrain

On Tuesday, last week, my friend Nadia and I flew to Manama, Bahrain to visit her brother and his family. This was my first time in Bahrain but I hope it was not my last.  I loved meeting several Bahrainis and enjoyed Nadia's family. Great people who love the Lord and made me feel so welcome.  We also got to visit the Bahrain Evangelical Church,  the American Mission Hospital, and several times we drove around the Pearl roundabout where the protesters are camping out until changes are made in Bahrain.

I was surprised at how calm and quiet the city was. From the news it seems like everything is in turmoil there but the truth is..well, it's not.  The Bahraini people are serious about the need for government change but they are not being violent at all.  During the day the roundabout felt more like one unending picnic.  Hani(Nadia's brother) said at night it swells up to 10,000 people,  but during the day it was very quiet.  We also saw several   marches from day to day but again, it felt more like National Day in Abu Dhabi and not really negative at all. I had an opportunity to speak with a young man who goes to the roundabout every evening. I could hear the frustration in his voice as he explained how and why the government needs to do more and make changes. I don't know how things will change but I do know it is important to pray for Bahrain and for all the countries in the Middle East right now.

Nadia and I returned on Thursday night.   It was just in time to make sure Robert was all packed up for another Boy Scout campout early Friday morning.  He had a great time in the mountains on the border of Oman.  His last campout of the year. Apparently they made a Monkey Bridge... :)  

Wednesday, Mike and I are flying to Sri Lanka with Barry and Pattie for a 3 day RnR on the beach. Pictures will be coming soon.!