The people I know in Sao Tome:

• laugh readily;
• argue passionately; and
• complain rarely

A people who face chronic un-/under-employment, a lower quality of health care, and the other typical challenges of a developing nation have much to teach us.  Elves says his country is a great country because if someone found themselves stranded here with just $1, they would find that they will be fed, will have a place to stay, and will find friends to laugh with.  I believe it, for the culture here is that everybody is family, everything is shared, everything is appreciated.

We travelled today to a resort island on the equator.  It was a 2 1/2 hour bus ride and another 30 minute boat ride.  With us travelled a Sao Tomean family.  We ended up eating our lunch at the same time.  At the end of their meal, they brought out a birthday cake they had brought with them from Sao Tome so they could celebrate the 50th birthday of one of the women.  She made a point to carry a piece of cake to each of us in the restaurant, as well as to the servers and cooks.  It was such a joy to celebrate her birthday with her.  It is nice to come to Sao Tome and find so many family members!