My Somali friends baby shower was today. It was her first one ever. She was overwhelmed with the feelings she was experiencing of gratitude, thanks and love. There were many Somali and American friends all together congratulating and celebrating the expected birth of a new baby boy. It was neat to see both Muslims and Christians put aside all of the religious confusion and differences and just care for one another. It is neat to note that we were all together as friends today, September 10, 2011 one day before the 10 year terrible memory of 9/11. Somehow, it was really a sweet time.

My American friends and I decorated the apartment then shared all kinds of food (both American and Somali dishes) that included Sambusas, Rice, pineapple casserole, chips and dip, spinach lasagna, cup cakes and more. We opened gifts, oohed and awed, laughed and played a silly toilet paper game. We came together to encourage our friend. The outside world and all of it’s problems suddenly mattered not. The large number of people in a small space was okay with us. It didn’t matter that we couldn’t even understand one another when we spoke, we each smiled, worked harder at it and played a great game of charades but even more there was a silent love language that spoke for us. It was enough for us each to know we were welcome and accepted in that place and with each person in the room. I am thankful for all those that helped today. The baby shower was truly sweet and brought us all a little closer together.

May He have all the glory!