Somehow, being the new guy, I got invited to one of the translators wedding on our first weekend here! Lydia and the girls were invited too, but culturally, it was a men's event so they stayed home.
Friday was a ceremonial washing of the groom in a neighbouring village 15 km away. Two other missionaries and two Nigerian hospital workers we were close with piled into the Land Rover. If a vehicle is going somewhere, it will never have an empty seat mainly because the alternatives are walking or being the third passenger on a moto! We had to cap it at one bum per seat in ours.
An HOUR later (you do the math) we made it to the village. With this not being a main road, it was more like driving on a stretch of dirt other people happen to drive on too! With all the potholes and washed out sections, it was amazing to see how easily the Nigeriens can maneuver on a moto and make good time.
There were three washings going on in the village at the same time, so once we found our party we sat down and greeted everyone. The groom, U. was excited and honoured that we came to support him. We were quite the novelty for the young children, who gathered in closely. Word must have spread because the numbers kept multiplying throughout the evening.
In this village, there is only one generator and sound system, so with three events going on we had to wait our turn. We left at 9.30 pm and our party still hadn't had their turn yet! It didn't phase anyone or affect the joy of the guests in any way.
Many events and ceremonies in the culture seem to be centred around gathering together and sitting in each other's company. The actual washing took only a few minutes but we sat and talked for hours! I was lucky enough to be sitting next to some other english speaking Nigeriens from the hospital.
Desert rain
I was struck how the absence of distractions like technology and light pollution allows us to appreciate the natural beauty around us. A storm was building in the distance and the beauty of the sunset, lightning and clouds were impossible not to notice because of the absence of everything else. In the circle of men, no one was looking at their phones or preoccupied because they came with the intention of greeting and supporting the groom, as well as spending time together.
Nigerien culture is full of kindness. As we were getting up to leave, we were still sent home with some food to share with those who didn't come. Culturally, no matter the amount they have, if they can give they will always give.
- Josh
Bike gang outside the wedding ceremony