We are having such a fun time with our 9 Maasai friends here at home in Arusha, Tanzania. They arrived on Monday, and will be here until Saturday. We are practicing singing, and getting ready to give our stories, and explain about life in Maasailand.

Today Nemburis was sharing her story, and the whole atmosphere in the room became so solemn. We’ve been laughing, and singing and dancing. We’ve been talking about this adventure of a lifetime, but as we were preparing Nemburis’ testimony, the reason for the trip became so real in the room.

Nemburis’ husband left a year and a half ago to go look for money in Kenya. Last time he came back, he didn’t bring any money at all. He left her again within a month, and she hasn’t heard from him since. Nemburis knows that he sleeps with prostitutes in the city, and last year she went to be tested for HIV / AIDS. She tested negative, but lives in fear that when her husband comes back next time, he may infect her.

Nemburis has five children that she cares for on her own. She’s the same age as I am, and she’s one of the most beautiful women I’ve ever met. She’s pleasant and joyful, and she knows how to pray. But her reality is a world away from mine, and it’s not ok. Life needs to change for Nemburis, and for other Maasai women living in fear of HIV / AIDS.