Taxi to my friends hotel. No idea if they are there. Find them sitting in the lobby- of course that would happen. Hit the roof for dinner- 7 stories high. Might as well be the top of the world. Tin roofs and shanties as far as the eye can see. Home to millions. Sunset and city lights. Beauty in the breakdown. There’s something fishy: tuna sandwich, spicy mustard, and French fries. yumm. Cold water is a treat. On the way down we run into a wedding party procession. Before I can blink my hand is grabbed and I’m pulled in despite my protests—I am underdressed! The bride and grooms parents welcome me warmly. “Du nah nesh” good thing I learned my Amharic greetings. Sister of the bride designates me a seat. I must regretfully decline—my ride is here. Some other time.
Its’ wedding season. Only here- if you invite 50, you expect 500 people. And that’s a small wedding. The Ethiopian way- an all day affair beginning with breakfast at the bride’s, events snowballing into dinner hosted by the groom’s family. They know how to party. Traditionally, for 2-3 months following the wedding- friends and fam of the bride and groom throw the wedding party a dinner every weekend. Quite a Kodak moment and I missed it. No camera. Oh well, I’ve got the still frames in my mind."
Saturday, October 24, 2009
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