A few weeks ago, Mrs. Agesa (my hostess) lost her elderly sister, who had several serious illnesses. I accompanied the family to the funeral. Before any funeral here, there are at least three days of mourning by the close family, who gather at the deceased's house, where she is displayed in the coffin. Drums beat all night and they sing and remember the person who has died. On the day of the funeral, the family had rented huge canopies, plastic chairs, and a sound system. At least 500 people gathered in the family compound for the rites. I was the only non-Kenyan present. The service, in Swahili, lasted from 8 am until 6 pm, and proceeded according to a printed program. Family, pastors, relatives, and neighbors spoke in turn, interspersed with sermons, prayers and singing. Food
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