Chipego

This was the name I was given in the local language, Tonga. I will back up... Julie and I were at Nsongwe clinic for prenatals and went to the back to attend Nutrition class. I had mentioned to Julie at some point during the trip that I would love to wear one of the babies on my back. So, as we were sitting around the back of the building Julie asked the ladies if there were any children I could wear. I had been thinking if there was a need. But before I know it, one of the women offered her 1.5 year old and another woman was wrapping me in her shitange. We all laughed as I asked the little girl if she wanted a ride. I was surprised when she didn't cry. I was a stranger after all. I just stood among the women and walked a little here and there and swayed back and forth. Within minutes she was asleep. They seemed impressed saying I am a good mother and started calling me "the Mother." So Julie told them I need a Tonga name and told the women they should name me. So they named me, Chipego, which means "gift" saying that I am a gift to their community and calling me a gift from God. I was humbled by such an honoring name because I really had not done anything for the community. I was just there. Not to mention I was just visiting. I think Julie sensed that and asked what other name would work. They called me another name that means "blessing" telling me I am a blessing. I had only met this woman once and the only thing she saw me do was sit with these women and wear this little girl on my back (and struggle greeting people in Tonga). I remember the seriousness in her eyes and face as she named me. She meant it. This experience describes the people so well and says more about them than about me. The honor they gave me reflects their humility and kindness which I experienced often among the people there. I prayed to be a blessing and I hope in some way I was. But, the missionaries who live there are the ones who are a gift to the community and a blessing. And maybe they were just naming me based off their experience with the missionaries which says a lot about them. I love having a Tonga name and "the Mother" is just fine too:). I also took little Rosemary to a prenatal visit. I especially loved this because that is what you do there. I probably wore her for an hour or so.