Organized Chaos.
"love without restrictions- trust without fear."
Egusi Soup and Tuwo Rice
I know I know, I am supposed to feature a “Meet A Friend.” I promise I will, sooon! I’ve decided on the person and it seems like the more I pray for her, the harder it is to make my words come together. In the meantime, I had a new Nigerian dish today! Egusi Soup.
I didn’t prepare it, so I’m confident it’s much better than my first try would have been, lol. The ladies in the dining hall on our compound cooked it and were willing to let me watch. Egusi soup seems to be the children’s favorite and honestly, may be mine, too.
The History: Initially, I wanted to know from which West African tribe did Egusi soup originate. As I read, it became quite a challenge. Some people said Igbo, some said Hausa, and others said Yoruba so I decided that I’d leave it up to my readers to tell me! What I did learn, is that egusi soup’s main ingredient is the seed of the egusi melon. These melon seeds are ground up, and used in many West African dishes, specifically soups. They look much like watermelon, but the inside is actually a soft yellow and the seeds are off-white.
Egusi melon 
Egusi seeds
The Process: I love watching the ladies use the pestle and mortar, so that obviously was my favorite part. They ground the seeds up to a pretty fine consistency. The base of the soup is red palm oil. This is the same oil based they used the first time I watched them make stew. The seeds are mixed in, and they gradually add dried fish, beef tips, and stock from those proteins. It honestly looks more like a chowder, but I’m not Nigerian, so my opinion doesn’t matter LOL. The ladies also added chopped spinach, which, if you know me, made my entire day. They cooked it down and BOOM. Now, this process sounds super short when condensed into a paragraph on my website, but it was SO. MUCH. WORK. De-boning the dried fish, DRYING the fish, cooking the beef, making the broth, preparing the base, chopping the vegetables, and doing whatever else they knew needed to be done. One of my favorite aspects of Nigerian culture is the food. This isn’t simply because I’m greedy, but because of the time and care that goes into creating each meal.
Swallows: Swallows are a pretty common Nigerian side dish. Each of them differ in flavor, but the texture seems fairly similar. They are what seem to be the “starch” of the meal. They are cooked down, pounded, mashed, or mixed, and molded into a ball shape to be eaten with various soups. With the egusi soup, the ladies prepared Tuwo Shinkafa Rice. I’m going to be honest and say that I missed watching them prepare the rice, but went to the website I’ve been using for trying different recipes at home, and found this quick video.
When I first saw the soup, I was nervous. It’s not the easiest on the eyes if it’s something you aren’t used to seeing. The texture tasted much different than it looked. I couldn’t stop eating it, y’all. It was sooooooo good. It’s like the fish and beef flavor did the gwara gwara in my mouth. It was legit.
Now, finally, the eating! Grab a spoon and go crazy, right?! WRONG. I’m intentional about asking the ladies how to eat certain foods. I’m fairly shameless in my lack of knowledge and am always eager to learn. It is to be eaten by “collecting a small amount of the rice, and using it to scoop the soup out of the bowl…” They wanted me to use a spoon, I said “NEVERRRRRR!!!” and everybody smiled and laughed. I know it may seem small, but that showed them immediately that I respected and was intrigued by the culture. They called me their sister, and I’m loving how our relationship is beginning to blossom. Here’s a SHORT clip of me eating the soup and swallow. I had to stop recording because baby I went to TOWN on this food.
I hope those of you following my website are enjoying the small pieces of Nigeria I’m able to share as I serve here in Jos. I promise to keep it up. My greatest desire has been to show my students from the states that they are, too, capable of experiencing a life outside of what society deems their standard. I hope this does just that.
Thank you for reading.
I love you.
Happy Monthaversary…?
Today marks one month of being in Nigeria. I was going to post a beautiful picture of the horizon and put my favorite Bible verse in the caption like most people in this sort of position, but quite honestly, I don’t feel like it. I know, I sound like a bratty teenager. I’m content with that. This was one of those times when I had to bury myself in order to see God lift me up.
I woke up this morning and began a long list of things to do instead of just sitting around the compound because the kids are gone. I cleaned. I read. I cooked. I painted. I wrote. I ran. I danced. I looked at the clock and it was only 1pm. I woke up at 5:30am because I’m still fighting jet lag and can’t afford to sleep in. I paced around the house for longer than I’d like to admit and eventually broke. When I say “broke” I don’t mean broke down and started crying. I just lacked functionality. I didn’t move. I didn’t talk (to myself of course). It felt like I didn’t breathe. I felt like a Nintendo 64 (when it’s time to take the game out and blow inside of it because it just froze in the middle of fighting Bowser for Princess Peach). All of these feelings were rushing through my mind and it was like I couldn’t do anything about it. Maybe that’s a bit dramatic to you, but this was my reality.
Today has been nothing short of an emotional roller coaster. At one point, I just sat on the floor and stared out the window. I think it’s tempting to have fairy-tale expectations of what it feels like to be obedient to God. The reality is, sometimes it hurts. Sometimes it’s so hard that we stop in our tracks and think of all the things we could be doing INSTEAD of what He says. Fortunately, feelings are temporary, and I’m finally at a place in my life where I don’t make decisions based explicitly off of how I feel. I’m learning the difference between temporary emotions, and truth. The truth is, I love Him and am thankful to be His broken and rebuilt cistern.
Before you say, “GO TO YOUR TEAM!” or “Why didn’t you talk to anybody or reach out to somebody??” understand that this was not a cry for companionship or community. I could have been in a room full of people, but that, too, would have been a failed attempt to be my own Savior.
Eventually, I sat down, and talked to my Daddy.
Why do we wait until we have no other fleshly option to go to God? This is not a rhetorical question. I’d love to know your thoughts in the comments. I know the typical answers “that’s what the flesh does” and “pride, Shakiyla, PRIDE” but today it felt like my heart and spirit had a disconnect. It was like I had to intentionally ask God to unite Himself with myself in order to feel purposeful again. It was nothing like I’ve ever experienced. I’d gotten so robotic in my worship that I was relying fully on feelings, emotions, and outward expression as a source of fulfillment. It was like I was in High School all over again. I was unknowingly floating at a surface-level devotion to God, and had no idea how I’d gotten there.
There is an evident difference between personal desire, and God’s command to do something. Today, it was like He stopped me in my tracks and said “Come to me…FULLY” It was an overwhelming reminder of just how much we need Him. I don’t know where I’m going with this. I think I just wanted to encourage you to Go to Him. Don’t wait until you’ve exhausted all other avenues to go to the King of Kings. I tried a million and one things, before I went to the author of my life (silly girl). We are indeed broken vessels in need of His grace, and today, I felt it pour over me.
I pray He does the same for you.
Thank you for reading.
I love you.
Welcome to Nigeria.
I’m finally sharing. Initially, I planned to post on the website the day I landed in Abuja, Nigeria, then I realized how useless that would be. I decided to give myself time to experience the city of Jos before I shared. That was the smartest move I’ve made in a while. Other than, of course, updating the website it! Make sure you click around a bit. (it looks better from a desktop) lol. If you’re new to the blog, click here to hear more about how I ended up going from Lake Charles, Louisiana to Jos, Nigeria!
Well, I landed in Abuja on my 27th birthday, and it was a beautiful way to start a new year of life. After having given Aries away, having had the surgery, and having left my family, I felt a sigh of relief at the thought of newness rather than loss. We drove through countless villages and I was able to see the variety of cultures throughout the five hour drive. I think it’s tempting for people to see Africa as just “Africa” but each country has its own culture and within each country, each state has its own culture. Each state has villages and each village has its own culture, and it’s been surreal to watch them all unfold. Here’s our village. It has many cottages, school buildings, a dining hall, central gazebos, a basketball court, and a soccer field for the kids (and myself) to play on. It’s a beautiful site to see in the morning.
I’ve decided to eat mostly Nigerian food. I say mostly because on Sundays my team and I go out to eat and it’s generally an American-ish restaurant. So far I’ve had, gari, pounded yam, stew, sweet potatoes, suya, bean cakes, buns, and of course, JOLLOF RICE. I try to make a Nigerian recipe at least once a week and ask the cottage mamas their opinion on what I should do to make it RIGHT. Today I made meat pies. These were pretty easy, primarily because we eat them in the south. The biggest difference was the seasoning. Curry is so popular here and I’m honestly not a fan, but Mama Hanatu said I can’t leave it out, so I didn’t. Here’s the final product. I’ll post the recipe link with more pictures and a series of unfortunate events later this week:
The 11th grade class invited me over one afternoon to help them bake cookies for Teacher’s Appreciation. It was there I learned what a pestle and a mortar were. I recently followed a Nigerian chef, Nma, who has captured my heart with her love for Nigerian food. Click the link for her AMAZING blog on the pestle and mortar. I’m addicted to these tools. I want to pound EVERYTHING in sight, lol. Faith and I crushed some ginger, cinnamon, and other spices for the dough. You basically just throw it in the bowl and get to work. The trick is to twist, and move with a downward inward motion. Idk if that makes sense, but that’s what she told me, and Aunty Lydia said I was doing a good job so I’m gonna keep doing it. My arms were definitely sore the next day but it was totally worth it.
I’ve also been pretty intentional about going to the market. This weekend I went to the “Main Market” and was honestly blown away by the Christmas rush of it all. Just like anywhere else, people wait until the last minute to get what they need and pile up on the streets and in the market. It was crazy. This picture does it little justice, but imagine miles of this full of people, children, stalls, and food. Once I got this picture, I ran to the side and refused to step foot on the road again. LOL. Every umbrella is a different stall (or two):
I was able to get a few groceries to last me through the holiday, and some makeup to try instead of getting it sent from home. We stopped for a bit and waited for the owner to get some of his “good stuff” so I was able to catch this lady braiding baby girl’s hair for the first time. At first, she wasn’t having it, but it was so sweet to watch the stylist not only comfort her, but encourage her to think fearlessly. The mama allowed her to do so, and for me, that was just a sweet picture of community. People don’t do that anymore. We can’t tell other people’s children how to feel, because they will either take offense or become defensive; it reminded me of Crowley. I was thankful to have seen it.
I’ve spent so much time with the kids that I can hardly stand them being away right now. They will be gone for about 3 weeks, so I have time to hopefully create some normalcy as I transition in. There are 6 girl cottages, and I think 4 boy cottages. Each has 6-12 children/young adults. In my head I was like “LAWD THAT’S A LOT OF CHILDREN” but y’all, the kids live so harmoniously. Obviously, they’re teenagers, so of course they fuss and fight, but every night ends with devotion alongside one another and a prayerful transition into the night. They are full of laughs and love, and I really am excited to get to know them even more. I’ve had a few stick like glue, and those relationships are blossoming more each day. It’s nice to be able to love on them in a different capacity. No classroom, no lesson plans, no school board, just love with God at the center. Here are a few shots from time spent together:
Derbe Girls after Devotion 
Galatia Boys after Devotion 
Rehearsal for the Christmas Carol 
“Sweet” Lystra Girls 
Jonathan sketched this beautiful portrait of me! I was stunned. 
Zion Boys a.k.a “The Bodyguards” 
JENNNNNYYYYYYYY
In creating this blog, I wasn’t sure what I would say. I didn’t sit down and outline any main ideas or write an essay like I usually would. I didn’t pin point specific encouragements or lessons learned, and I didn’t really introduce any new ideas. I did what I said I would, share. I know it’s pretty shallow compared to most of my other updates because they tend to be deep and sometimes dark with a light at the end of the tunnel, but that’s not what this blog is. This is more like a reflection of what has happened and what makes it special. This time around I was really able to feel what was around me and I felt a sense of freedom in that. I will FOR SURE give you more details and tell you the lessons I’ve learned, but today, I just want to encourage you to allow yourself to experience life. I have pictures, but it is very seldom I bring my cell phone with me anywhere. I really just grab my bag and GO. It’s refreshing to feel less attached. So I think that’s what I recommend; detachment.
Whatever you feel like you can’t be without, let it go for a minute and experience life in all its rawness.
I recommend all of my followers to follow me on Instagram! I post DAILY and go LIVE weekly so people can get a taste of what’s around me and what life looks like. My name is shakiylas click here to FOLLOW ME and join us. I hope you enjoyed this small taste of Jos, Nigeria. I can’t wait to share more.
Thank you for reading.
I love you.
Nigeria Service Update: August 2021
We recently started our admission process for the new school year. We did sign-ups for a week and on the first day, we had over 200 parents show up to register their children. Some of the mothers were at the school gate at 6:30 a.m. (school doesn’t start until 8:00 a.m.). It was comforting to know that not only do they believe in what God is doing at the school, they want their children to be a part of it. As they came into the office, ten by ten, wide-eyed, and curious, I was struck. Like those parents, God wants what is best for His children and has gone above and beyond waiting at a gate, by sending His Son. I was brought to my knees in thankfulness. He loves us with intentionality, power, and truth. What a great God.
The Primary classrooms are finished! After months of hard work by the maintenance team and long hours perfecting the spaces for the children, they are truly breathtaking. Each first and second grade classroom has an open space for teaching, two bathrooms, a reading corner, a math corner, and a Teachers’ Office.
Now, we are moving on to the demolition of the old preschool so we can use it as the second stream of third through sixth grade classrooms. The maintenance team is ready and able. We cannot wait to see what they do with this space.
There has been tribal unrest in the surrounding areas so the teachers thought it imperative that we keep a sense of normalcy on campus. Our Homemaker’s Club decided to make Nigerian meatpies and chips (French fries), to refocus the hearts and minds of the children. It was a delicious way to turn worry into rest and God kept everyone safe and secure.
We recently hired one of our Rafiki Mothers to work as the Guidance Counselor in the school. Between her time serving as a mother to the resident children, she was able to complete her schooling in Guidance and Counseling at the University of Jos. We officially welcomed her to the team, and she constantly proves that it was a great decision.
I cannot begin to thank each of you enough for your prayers, concern, and encouragement. I am slowly creeping up on four years in Africa and that is more than I ever thought God would have done. More to come in later updates! Until then,
Thank you for reading
I love you.
Nigeria Service Update: February 2021
Hey there family and friends!
Happy New Year! I know last year’s “Happy New Year!” was a bit more dramatic with the wedding announcement, but I am confident that just like then, God will continue to do marvelous things in our lives. Acts 16 reminded me that our Father has the power to convert and change all people. Lydia, the wealthy, cosmopolitan business owner, the disinterested Philippine jailor, and the teenage slave girl being used by her master were all taken up under His wing and transformed by the power of His love. Take rest in the fact that you are not an exception to that indisputable grace.
“Then he [the jailor]brought them out and said, ‘Sirs, what must I do to be saved?’ And they said, ‘Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household’” (Acts 16:30-31). Amen!
We have fully resumed school! I cannot put into words how grateful we are that God moved the Nigerian government to reopen. COVID-19 cases are low in our state, and we are taking the necessary precautions to keep it that way. Before the students returned, we had quite the arduous teachers’ in-service week. As an end-of-week celebration, they, alongside our teachers-in-training, had a friendly football (soccer) match. Aunty Barsheba was our secret weapon and the best cheerleader ever! She teaches in the pre-school and is a breath of fresh air to anyone she meets. I tell her often that her joy reminds me of my Mama’s. She also helps in the elementary school with elective classes and read-alouds. Things have been tense, but it was nice to think less of what could be and bask in the beauty of what is.
We are closing week four of the nine-week term. The students are still eager to be back, and we pray that excitement does not fizzle out. They are acclimating to class with facemasks and socially distant learning, but those smiles peek out often! More than anything, they have raved about the Rafiki Bible Study. They have genuinely missed studying God’s Word with one another and are happy to be back.
Ishaku has had the opportunity to create more wooden home décor. Initially, it was hobby, but recently, he got a contract and buyers in town. They were interested in the “farmhouse” and “distressed” look that he enjoys creating. God is truly providing for us! We’ve lost some sponsors since COVID-19 hit the economy, but we’ve trusted and obeyed. It got so busy that he needed to hire help. He has been intentional about using this work as a ministry and mentorship to the young men eager to learn. Here are a couple of samples of their most recent work! You can also visit the Facebook page and message them if you’re interested in one of your own! (4) Adumo Interior and Exterior Painting Services | Facebook
We are grateful for your prayers and constant encouragement.
Prayer requests:
• God’s intervention over nearby tribal unrest
• God’s intervention over the senseless kidnappings
• Our ministries at the school and work
• Our marriage to continue to reflect Christ and the Church.
• All the people serving alongside us (staff, missionaries, expats. etc)
• That the true gospel will permeate the hearts of many
If God prompts you to share this newsletter or any other information to help extend our financial partnerships, please don’t hesitate to reach out. A few of you asked about writing letters or sending “house warming” gifts to us. If you would like to send anything, ask about partnership, or make donations, click here to connect with me and I’ll get the information to you!
Thank you for reading.
We love you.
Vitrual tour: Jos, Nigeria Market
I’ve never done anything like this before, and I definitely didn’t think I’d have this much fun doing it but here we are!
Since moving to Nigeria, I’ve continually had friends, family, and even professional peers ask the same question, “What’s a typical day like?” Well, welcome to a typical Saturday afternoon.
I went to town to get groceries, or “foodstuffs” for the next few weeks. It was mainly meats, fruits, and vegetables. I decided not to do a voice-over explaining everything because it takes from the authentic market experience.
I hadn’t been to town since before Christmas, so excuse the hugs and EXTRA long greetings. (although, that is the Nigerian way!) I hope you enjoy it.
Thank you for watching
I love you🖤
Virtual Tour: Teaser
FINALLY, I’m gonna take you with me 😂 I don’t usually do “teasers” but I’m ecstatic about this next post. Since moving to Nigeria, I’ve constantly had friends and family ask, “So what does a normal day there look like?!” I try describing it, but I do Jos no justice.
This week I’m uploading a virtual tour of my home away from home ♥️. I’m taking you with me to get some groceries or “foodstuffs” for the next few weeks. It’s nothing fancy, but you get to “meet” some of the people I’ve grown to love.
I haven’t seen most of them since before Christmas so excuse our excitement!
Make sure you’re subscribed on YouTube and hit the notification bell so you don’t miss it
or
I’ll have a link there, too.
See you soon 🖤 love&light.
Nigeria Service Update: January 2021
Hey there family and friends!
I have been reading through the Psalms with my baby brother, Jamaal, and this one has been such a sweet encouragement:
Hide your face from my sins,
and blot out all my iniquities.
Create in me a clean heart, O God,
and renew a right spirit within me.
Cast me not away from your presence,
and take not your Holy Spirit from me.
Restore to me the joy of your salvation,
and uphold me with a willing spirit.
(Psalm 51:9-12)
Isn’t it a humbling reminder that we cannot even worship God to our fullest potential without His help? We become so burdened with “doing everything well” that we forget He is the author of EXCELLENCE. As the holiday season comes to an end, I want to encourage you to remain in God’s presence and continue to celebrate the birth of our Lord! Sit at the hem of His garment and rest in the power of His Word. This has been our strength during a quite unpredictable year, and I pray it will be yours!
By God’s grace, I was able to visit my family and friends in Louisiana. As always, it was a sweet time. With every embrace, I could feel peace rush over them knowing God has kept me. I was also able to spend time with friends I have not seen since my Nigeria departure and the reunion was truly a gift. Ishaku was not able to join me, but we pray he will in 2021. We will continue his visa process after the holidays; please pray with us that God will provide, and he will be granted approval.
We are also preparing to have my mama over to officially meet Ishaku! She was not able to attend the wedding, so we are hopeful that she will, at last, be able to give him one of her sweet “welcome to the family” hugs. This week, I will book the flight and she will begin the visa process. COVID-19 is still underway, so pray that God will have His hand over the entire process as travel can be largely impacted.
Me and my beautiful Mama
During my visit, I was able to speak with my Lake Charles partners about joining my second term commitment with the Rafiki Foundation. I will continue as the Headmaster of the schools and agreed to do this for two more years, God willing. Many of you signed up for a two-year service term in 2018, and although I was not able to visit, I ask that you would continue your commitment.
I was also asked to speak at a few schools and churches about missions, mission partnership, and mountain-moving faith. If you would like to see any of those write-ups, they are on my Facebook page and the Sale Street Baptist Church Facebook page. We are praying that God will move in the hearts of His people to become financial partners with us. Please feel free to reach out if you are interested in sharing our information with anyone you know or presenting it to your church or organization. After speaking at First Baptist Church Moss Bluff, a parent told us that her son had recently grown rather fond of Africa and is praying that if missions is his calling, He would water that seed!
Lake Charles Charter Academy
First Baptist Church Moss Bluff
Our campus here in Jos is steadily growing and changing. The students got about six weeks to review content and get back into the flow of school after having been out for nine months due to COVID-19. They, along with the staff, were more than eager to hear the buzz of life on campus again. In November, we were blessed to admit over twenty new students from the surrounding community. This brought our roster up to 315 students. Word of mouth will always be the best advertisement. Not only will these children get a beautiful classical Christian education, but they will also be taught the Word of God every morning by teachers who love them like Christ! How great it is to share the truth and light of the Scriptures.
Many of you loved our last community service update, so we thought we would share another. A lot of our life is on social media, but things like the following we keep closer to home. For the holidays last year, we were able to purchase a few yams and some rice for the neighbors. About forty families received half a yam and a bit of rice. This year, God did abundantly more. Because of your continued partnership, we were able to save enough to buy almost three times more yams and rice for the families near and around our compound. It was surreal to watch the bags and boxes fill up and be whisked away.
As always, thank you for your continued support, prayers, and encouragement. Please share our newsletter with anyone you think would be interested. As our family grows, so will our needs. Please pray alongside us for people to join in this life ministry of service to the Kingdom.
https://www.rafikifoundation.org/Files/Article/Missionary%20News%20PDFs/Solomon/SolomonJan2021.pdf
Nigeria Service Update: August 2020
FAIR WARNING: It’s LONG, but totally worth it if you’re wondering what my life in Nigeria has turned into.
“Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people. For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior” (Titus 3:1-6).
As I read through Paul’s letter to Titus, I cannot help but feel those words in my heart. Paul knew what was to come in Crete. Paul knew that the people were in disarray and that sin had overtaken the desire for righteousness. Paul knew that the churches needed a reminder of who God had called them to be and how it was possible through Christ alone. I know that things do not necessarily “make sense” right now. I am sure each of you, at one time or another, has found yourself angry or frustrated with something in the media, news, or checkout line. I am praying that we can take heed to the encouragement Paul sent to Titus as he too was called to transform a nation, not through cultural wars or forced assimilation, but by engaging with the people of those cultures and living a life that displayed the regenerative love of Christ. I am hopeful that God’s people will use those truths in calming the flame of this social, economic, and health wildfire.
In my last newsletter, I announced that we would go ahead with the wedding. We decided not to risk doing anything large, given the outbreak and government restrictions, so we had as small of a ceremony as we could. Since my family was unable to attend, I appointed the senior girls as bridesmaids. They loved being able to choose their dress styles and have their hair and makeup done. I ran late, so I thought it necessary to include the picture of me running out of the house while on the phone with my pastor who was saying, “You’re late, where are you?” No surprises there! Although it was not what we were expecting, it was a testament to God’s provision and protection over our lives. I FaceTimed my momma and sister before the wedding, and one of my nieces stayed on FaceTime with my family during the entire ceremony. We danced and blew kisses to them after saying our “I wills,” and for that, I thank God. Wedding pictures are at the end of this newsletter.
Here, at the school, we have gotten government approval to re-open campus for our senior students. This includes those in grade eight and grade twelve for them to prepare for national exams, which start next week. We have been socially distancing the desks, wearing face masks, and washing our hands regularly on campus to abide by federal regulations. It is everything but ordinary, but the students are making do, and the teachers are of great help.
Our maintenance staff has worked tirelessly to renovate the new classrooms. As the children grow up, graduate, and move off-campus, their cottages are renovated into classrooms, and the staff is doing a great job with the renovations, reconstruction, and painting so the children will have larger, more accessible learning spaces.
The campus is looking more breath-taking as the days pass. I don’t think I have shared pictures of the compound since my first month here in November 2019, but look at how beautiful God’s creation is! This picture below is the view from right outside my office.
Although the children miss being in school, they are undoubtedly enjoying uniform-free days. I remember that feeling! They have been exploring different styles, colors, and ways to incorporate Nigerian fabric with their own “touch.”
Since moving off of the compound, Ishaku and I have invested our free time in the renovation of local shops. It is a service that we did not see as service until it came to fruition. God put it on our hearts, and without hesitation, we obeyed. It started with our favorite restaurant. The owner, Mommy Sarki, was mentioned in my newsletter from October 2019. She has been a beautiful picture of Jesus in my life since moving here. We re-tiled the floor, fixed the ceiling and roofing, and re-painted the building. If you recall from the October newsletter, she had been robbed, well, that happened many times since, so we were able to install higher security doors and windows in her shop. She is family. Her family is family, and we cannot wait to see where God puts us next. Her shop is directly across from COCIN Headquarters in Jos, next to the garden. If you live in Jos, pay her a visit. Monday-Friday lunch! We’re posting all of our paid contracts on our Facebook page! If you’d like to be a part of that, let us know.
Look how big Shakiyla is. I didn’t have her picture in time to send my newsletter, so I HAD to show y’all. She walking everywhere, including up and down the stairs. Help. She’s recognizing Hausa much more than English, so I’m trying to talk to her in Hausa more so she doesn’t feel overwhelmed. She LOVES to dance and scream. Yes, scream. And talk. Like a true Shakiyla, the child just rambles. I love it and her for it. She’s already one. Which means I’ve almost been here 2 years. That’s wild. She’s wild. I can’t wait for her to meet Mama.
Please continue to pray for our senior students. As they begin their exams and prepare for life outside of Rafiki; the expected anxiety is setting in. We have talked much about time management, money management, pure devotion to God, and intentional growth. Pray that God would calm their hearts and minds. Pray that He would make Himself even more known to them through His word and His people. They are a small class, but they have big desires and a high calling to impact Nigeria.
As always, thank you for your continued support, prayers, and encouragement. Please share the newsletter to anyone you think would be interested in knowing more about what’s happening with us in Nigeria. As our family grows, so will our needs. Please pray alongside us for people to join in this life ministry of service to the Kingdom. We love you!
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Thank yo for reading this book…
I love you.
Hyphen Life: Juneteenth
About two weeks ago I decided to take a break from educating the folks around me. I found myself in this dark pit of obligation. I’d convinced myself that it was my responsibility as a Black woman to make sure that the extent of what is happening in America (now worldwide) and what has happened for centuries was understood by my non-Black counterparts. Then, I woke up one morning, looked over at my King, wiped the tears from my cheeks, and decided to stop. I was tired. I was tired of bearing the weight of the big Black elephant in every multi-cultural room. I was tired of the memorized, “I’m on your team” speeches and pats on the back. I was tired of the piercing silence from people who were too afraid to say anything. I was tired of trying to find the balance between not saying enough and saying too much. I was tired of the, “but we have tribalism here and that’s just as bad…” talks with my Nigerian peers. I was tired. Being Black is not being African, nor is it being American, it is being hyphenated. That hyphen cuts and truly, I haven’t quite found the words to describe the depth of its pain. So, this is me pleading for you to STOP if you need to stop. Trying to convince people of something they refuse to believe can be exhausting. We need you-all of you-mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual. Don’t lose yourself in the fight to be seen by the selective blind. I see you.
You more than matter.
You are a necessity and a gift.
You are light.
You bring wisdom and power.
Take care of yourself. They can learn on their own. They can do their own research. They can find articles, books, videos, and other resources. But you, YOU need rest and that’s okay. Take time.
June 19th, 1865 will likely be on everyone’s timeline today and I love it. The Black Lives Matter movement is forcing society to learn, or avoid, very biting truths about the foundations on which America was born. Consider this the end of my break from educating in this arena.
*adjusts glasses*
You can find in most American history books that the Emancipation Proclamation was made effective in 1863 by President Abraham Lincoln. Unfortunately, that proclamation did not reach all of the African men and women who were stolen, purchased, and forced upon American, formerly Indigenous peoples’, soil. It wasn’t until about 2 years later, that the message made its way down to Texas by way of Union soldiers. Then, they alongside the other 250,000 Black (formerly African) people, were officially declared “free.” The celebrations began. The joy boiled over. They felt like they finally belonged. Let’s take note of the fact that this was only 155 years ago… ONE HUNDRED FIFTY-FIVE YEARS. So much and so little has happened in that time.
I remember telling my boyfriend, now husband, about Juneteenth on this day last year. He harmlessly chuckled. I felt embarrassed, then proud, then angry, then sad. My emotions were all over the place and in a matter of seconds I was in tears. If you don’t follow my website, you may not know that my husband is Nigerian, so we are often given opportunities to learn the differences in our cultures. I proceeded to teach him, in detail, why this day mattered. His response was, “So, America has two Independence days? One for Black people and one for White people???” He honestly couldn’t make sense of it at first. It sounded ridiculous at the time, but, I’ve accepted the fact that when a nation is built on foundations that include genocide, theft, and enslavement, its independence won’t make sense to most people. It may even be humorous; laughable; a joke. Our conversation went on and we ended on a sweet note of knowledge and acceptance but that won’t always be the case with others. I love Juneteenth. I can’t wait to celebrate it with my family. Not only because of the freedom it represents, but because it is a constant reminder that this world is not my home. This nation is not my nation. I am a sojourner. I was not made to fit in. I was made to serve. Heaven awaits, and when I get there, I will belong.
Thank you for reading.
I love you.
Featured image by Benjamin Lambert on Unsplash
Dear Black Men:
Initially, I planned to use this letter as a platform to address what’s going on in society. I would comment on the police brutality. I would defend the cries for air, the pleas for breath, the petitions for equality, but God told me to talk to you, not around you, not about you, not through you, TO YOU.
I pray you feel my praises.
Let me start by saying, I love you. I love you like the dawn dew that quenches the thirst of every blade of grass-plentifully and full of provision.
I love you like the rest that comes following endless days, and sleepless nights-refreshingly
I love you like Sunday mornings- peacefully
I love you like the gentle kiss of the breeze- unseen, sometimes silently, but always felt.
I love you like the songs of freedom and salvation, eternally.
This is how I love you.
My dear Black man, you are strong. In your DNA lies the strength of thousands of men who watched their children be snatched and killed while their wives were raped and beaten. Some were stolen, some escaped, but all were affected and you were molded by them.
You were the Strange Fruit they sang about hanging from southern trees, and still your sweetness feeds us.
You have running through your veins the strength to fight. Even your weeping sends trembles down their spines. You have the strength to feel in a world that wants you numb. Find freedom in feeling. I’m sorry you have to be so strong, but I thank you for your strength.
You are resilient. Society has knocked you down, demonized you, animalized you, and painted you a threat. They have made a mockery of you. They have tried to terminate you. Still, you thrive. Still, you provide. Still, you exist. I’m sorry you have to be so resilient, but I thank you for your resiliency.
You are elegant. Yes, ELEGANT. Your presence stops people as you float across the room. They can’t quite figure out what of you is captivating, but I know it’s the beauty of your soul. It shines through. They fear the unknown, so they fear you. They judge the unknown, so they judge you. They kill the unknown, but as hard as they try- that beautiful soul will never die.
You are powerful. You could break and destroy all that has broken and destroyed you. You could tear from limb to limb all that has torn you. You could strangle. You could kill. But with those hands- those beautifully beaten hands- you hold our sons and daughters. You carry, so gently, your mothers’ burdens. You dance in slow motion, palm to waist. You take stretched out fingertips and go for long walks. You wipe tired tears. You tuck in. You cuddle. You caress. You comfort. You repair. You build. You heal. Thank God, your hands heal.
No matter where you go, no matter your position, no matter your possessions, you may be deemed worth fearing, but know that we see you. We see the gentle giant and we love him. Know that we hear you. We hear your supplication. We hear your pain. And we are near to you.
My sweet King, with the rising of each breath, I watch fear grow beneath your chest, and with every exhale- you become FEARLESS. Thank you for your fearlessness.
You are not an animal.
You are not a caricature.
You are not a monster.
You are not a threat.
You are tired.
You are meticulous.
You are determined.
You are valued.
YOU ARE NECESSARY.
I love you. We love you. Forever and always.
I’m bearing this burden with you. God sometimes has a strange way of healing the broken, but I trust His healing will come. You are His. You are kept. Yes, stand firm, but don’t stand for too long. Stop. Rest. Replenish. Feel. You will live.
Thank you for reading.
Feel free to leave a note of prayer requests, comments, or encouragement for the men reading.
Featured photo by George Coletrain on Unsplash
Refuse to go under
I don’t usually talk about my findings in scripture in and of themselves. They are more commonly the foundation of an idea or life event and those things become the topic of discussion through the lens of God’s word. Here though, I want to share how God’s truth kept me from drowning.
For the past couple weeks I’ve been experiencing this ongoing fight with Satan. In short, he has been telling me that I’m “too much.” I acknowledge that Satan is the enemy. I do not wrestle against flesh and blood, so the powers that be are to blame, not any person/people used as a vessel (Ephesians 6:12). Initially, it was pretty vague, but as time went on, the indistinctiveness (not sure if that’s a real word) became clear and constant.
You are too emotional
You are too talkative
You are too serious
You are too opinionated
You are too complicated
You are too eager
You are too loud
You are too common
You are too curious
You are too inquisitive
You are too analytical
You. Are. Too. Much.
As the days and weeks went on, I started to believe him. If you listen to something long enough, it becomes a part of you. I think this is one of many reasons why Solomon implores us to guard/keep our hearts. If not, the truth gets drowned in the bellow of lies and you go under along with it.
You lose your breath. You lose your capacity to survive. You lose yourself in the belittlement of all that you thought made you special. You feel yourself drowning. You feel the weight of the water pushing you down, no matter how hard you try to swim. You grapple for air and as soon as your mouth opens, it’s shut with the berating power of hurt-filled insults. Despite the pressure of it all, you open your mouth again to scream for help and taste those attacks on your tongue. They fill your cheeks… then your throat…then your chest… and right before they reach your lungs and you drown in the weight of Satan’s trickery; God’s truth draws you to the surface.
A good friend, unknowingly said exactly what the Lord wanted me to hear, “Shakiyla, you are not too much…” As the tears began to flow, I found myself finally resting in the arms of His grace. I’ve come to terms with the fact that we live in a world where most people are either incapable or uninterested in learning the intricacies of our existence. Thankfully, God already knows and for eternity, He will welcome us into His presence. Nothing is too much for the Father. Your baggage is not baggage to Him. Your personality is not merely tolerated by Him. He loves you. All of You. He will mold you daily to look more like His son and in that transforming love, you will find rest.
So, here are some tangible reminders of the truth that I promise will keep you from drowning:
- “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” Psalm 147:3. All of those broken pieces that you may be expecting others to put back together, are His for the holding. They may try, and some may succeed, but all of you is exactly what He asks for. Let Him bind you up.
- “In the cover of your presence you hide them from the plots of men; you store them in your shelter from the strife of tongues.” Psalm 31:20. Not only will He protect you from Satan, He will protect you from yourself and the harshness of others. Seek Him. Take refuge under His wing and find rest there. We are warriors in a world that goes against all that we stand on. Be confided in the truth that you may be knocked down, but you can find rest, rejuvenation, and restoration in the Father.
- “Jesus is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Hebrews 13:8. People change. Circumstances change. Relationships change. We live a life of acclimation or reservation. We choose to either deal with the changes put before us, or to flee. It can be exhausting, but the enduring power of the love of God is what makes it exceptional. Be reminded, although others may change; He never will. His love is constant. His presence is forever. He is near to His children indefinitely.
- “Behold, my eye has seen all this, my ear has heard and understood it. What you know, I also know; I am not inferior to you. But I would speak to the Almighty and I desire to argue my case with God.” Job 13:1-3. Stop defending yourself to people. Your service and your life are in His hands. In brokenness, misunderstanding, and defeat, go to the one who KNOWS. Cast that heart of yours over to the Lover of it. You may not be as confused as people make you feel. You may not be as wrong as you’re being told. You will not get that clarity from a human heart, so go to God.
- “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:6-7. As tempting as it is to bring your every thought, worry, question, and anxious thought to people you love, understand that they cannot bear the weight of it all. Yes, we are called to bear each other’s burdens, but we are also called to submit those to God. Which do you think should come first? Go to Him and you may find no need to go to them, and that’s okay.
He is everything we need and more. Stop searching for the validation, affirmation, and acceptance from people in this life. Your closest friend cannot be your Jesus. Your parents cannot be your Jesus. Your family cannot be your Jesus. Your children cannot be your Jesus. Your spouse cannot be your Jesus. YOU cannot be your Jesus. They cannot save you and thankfully, they are supposed to. We not only need a Lord, we need a Savior. Saving is transactional (don’t think that’s a word either). He calls us in and we should respond in love by relinquishing all. I was holding on to my identity and today, as I finished this blog, I gave it to Him. What are you holding on to? What can I pray you would pour like sweet perfume at the feet of the Father? I’m here, but more importantly, He is.
Thank you for reading. I hope it encouraged.
I love you.
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Nigerian Zobo drink
Hey friend! The last post was super personal and a bit heavy, so I decided to lighten the mood this time around. This is a super quick and simple recipe for what I have found to be a popular drink here on the Plateau and I’m sure Nigeria at large. Now, let me first admit that this was my second *cough cough* third time trying this recipe… “I THOUGHT YOU SAID IT WAS SIMPLE!” I promise it is, but practice makes perfect, right?
The first time: I didn’t wash my leaves or cook them. I also didn’t add any ginger which is definitely one of the most important ingredients.
The second time: I took all advice from my husband. Truthfully, I knew better than to trust him around the kitchen. I love my chocolate man and he’s amazing at many things, but cooking is not one of them. HE CAN MAKE A MEAN GOAT PEPE SOUP, THOUGH!
This last time: I looked up recipes, called a couple of the women I’ve grown to trust in the kitchen here, and didn’t use any measurement tools.
Let me give you a bit of background on Zobo before I jump into the recipe. If you know all about it and are just reading to see how badly an American girl may have botched a Nigerian delicacy–click here for the recipe. Zobo is the Hausa name of the flower used to make this drink; Hibiscus sabdariffa is the English word. They are plucked from Roselle plants, which I happen to think are beautiful.
“The plant’s leaves and young flowers are often used for tea, syrup, jam, and [even] candy.” In the market here, many people harvest the leaves, lay them out to dry, and sell them by the mudu. Mudu is a common means of measuring produce in the market. To find out more about it and how it compares to other measurement systems, click here. On any day in Jos, other than during complete lockdowns, you will see people in the market with wheel barrels FULL of this dried hibiscus leaf, and even more people buying it by the bag.
I had Zobo when I first moved to Nigeria. The kids in the village made it for us with a side of cookies for the Christmas program. I’ve learned that many people drink Zobo during the holidays, parties, and some special occasions.
There are endless lists of the benefits of Zobo drink, but I decided to just ask around here and see what is most often noted:
- Lowering blood pressure
- Lowering blood sugar
- Clarifying skin
- Weight loss
- Reduces swelling
- Kills bacteria causing worms and parasites
- Helps with menstrual pains
I’m sure there are other benefits, but I’ll stick with these for now. I posted me and Ishaku’s last attempt at Zobo on my Instagram story, and I had a few friends who have lived in other countries, such as, India, Mexico, and Japan tell me that they make something similar there. Hibiscus seems to have an array of health benefits, so it’s no surprise that many other countries eat or drink it. Y’all ready for the recipe or should we continue deep-sea diving into the specifics of Hibiscus sabdariffa? Let’s get to it.
Things you’ll need:
- Zobo leaves (two hands full, maybe)
- Ginger (1/2 thumb)
- Honey
- Pineapple
- An orange
- Water
Now, I prefaced this by letting you know that I didn’t use any measuring tools, so don’t be surprised if I say, “some”, “a lil bit”, or “a bunch.” I always give the option to skip the pictures and Shakiyla-inspired commentary and flip straight to the recipe, so if that’s your thing click RECIPE
Here are my leaves. We got them in town a few days ago. They were among those living the lavish life of a wheel barrel in town.
Now, you want to toss those babies into a pot of water (enough to cover them) and let it cook on a low-med fire for about 15 minutes. Look how pretty…
While that cooks down, chop about a thumb of fresh ginger into small pieces and add it the the pot. I used a potato peeler instead of chopping them because I didn’t feel like washing another knife. Do you. Just get it in there. Now that the ginger and leaves are swimming together, let them simmer for about 15 more minutes.
Grab how ever much pineapple you want. I think I used about 1/4 of a small one. The purpose of the pineapple is natural sweetness, so if you want to balance out the kick of the ginger, I’d say add 1/2 fresh one or one whole can of chopped. Mix that with a lil’ bit of honey and some of the pineapple juice.
Once the leaves are soft and almost look gummy, it’s time to let them cool. Here’s what they looked like after boiling for about 20 minutes (I lost track of time). Leave them in the pot to cool down and go dance in the living room for a while.
Once it cools, add the pineapple mixture, give it a good stir, let it sit for a couple minutes, then strain it with your cheesecloth, t-shirt, or whatever it is you use for straining. Notice how the mixture foamed up a bit from the acidity in the pineapple. I loved it. Thanks to the hubs for straining so I can take the picture.
Just a heads up for anybody trying this for the first time, the Zobo leaves will for sure stain anything white (or lightly colored). I wanted to use this while cloth because I wanted to SHOW just how quickly it stains. It went from bright pink to deep purple. The scientist in me thinks the oxygen from the water is what changes the color but honestly, I have no clue.
It looks purple and blue because of the stains from yesterday’s batch.
That’s basically it. put it in bottles or a pitcher and store it, or serve at your very own Nigerian themed party, lol. I often see them served with a slice of orange and a straw but I’m tryna save the whales and dolphins so I only added the orange slice. I hope you enjoyed it. Comment down below where you would serve Zobo if given the chance! Be sure to take my poll before you go.
Thank you for reading.
I love you.
Organized Chaos. 