I've done it!

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Without doubt, the two question that I am asked most often by people when I tell them that I've visited Egypt are: Have you seen the pyramids? Followed closely by: Have you ridden a camel? I saw the pyramids on my first visit to Egypt two years ago. On Sunday I went and visited for the second time the pyramid complexes at Saqqara and Dashur -- older than the site at Giza. And now when I'm asked I can also say, "Yes, I've ridden a camel!"

Here's what happened. The pyramid site at Saqqara (known to many as the step pyramid) has an amazing complex of ruins that were the temples and the tombs that surrounded the pyramids. In addition to seeing the pyramids and temples, we ventured further afield to visit 3 tombs filled with the most beautiful and amazing carvings and paintings. Walking into one of the tombs I was overwhelmed with the sense of privilege of being able to see and explore the amazing artwork of craftsman that has endured for nearly 5,000 years. It really took my breath away to see the carvings and the artwork from these ancient times. It makes me sad that most of my students have never seen this part of their own history and don't care too. For many of them it is simply a pile of rocks that has little value in the world we live in today.

We ventured a bit further into the desert to visit yet another tomb and this is where the camels came to the rescue. Some of the more adventurous ones in our group decided that they wanted the camel experience. Abuna Michael and I were firm that we would walk and began the trek. But when we saw our friends coming in a procession of camels (looking every bit like the magi crossing the desert) we had to get in on the fun. A few changes were made in the arrangements and before I knew it I was riding my own camel -- every bit the Sultana! (This is the nickname that has been given me by my Michael this summer).

It was an experience. I don't know that I'll need it again, but it was definitely worth the $3 that I paid for it!

Hope you enjoy the pictures!

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Comments

[Dee]

Things to do & places to go
Amy before I saw your pics I was reading some scripture and immediately they were linked! It was in Romans 8:14-15. "God's Spirit beckons. There are things to do and places to go! This resurrection life you received from God is not a timid, grave-tending life. It's adventurously expectant, greeting God with a childlike 'What's next, Papa?' Wow!

[Michele]

Looks fun
Hope the sandfleas aren't getting to you.

[Beth Ann Stone]

Camel Club
Hi, Amy! Isn't it cool how the camels get up and down? I wish my knees could bend the other way sometimes! (I know, each knee only goes one direction, but it's still cool!) I got to ride a camel in Jordan back in seminary. Cool to read your posts! Take care of yourself! Love, BA

[Elaine]

how exciting
Pastor Amy~ Thank you for sharing your experience. You write so beautifully and the description of cossing the desert like the magi was meaningful in many ways... your comments also made me think of how we in the US don't take the interest in the beauty and history of our own country and areas where we live. I think of Watkins Glenn and the thousands that "trek" there and how long it has been since I have even driven by the area. You look thirilled on your ride! Blessings and safety. Elaine

[dave]

Camel Ups and Downs
Amy, Glad you finally got "over the hump" on this camel riding business. What better entry for your resume. Sorry for my failure to blog recently. I am trying to realize what an impact the pyramid visit you described must have had on you Cairo experience. Also read your update on Mina. Be sure she and family will be in our prayers. Thinking of you always and praying for your well-being and ministry in Cairo.Talked to Hans last week. Glad he got to make the trip to Minnesota. Love, Mom and Dad