The Lord said, “Behold, they are one people, and they all have the same language. And this is what they began to do, and now nothing which they purpose to do will be impossible for them.
Every morning, a gorilla named Tamto and his four brothers go on walks up Mount Kong to play. Tamto lives on the bamboo-covered slopes near the top.
These gorillas have thick fur that keeps them warm. It helps them stay comfortable in the cold weather on the mountain.
Danti and his friends heard that people visit the mountain to see Tamto. They asked their teacher if they could go too. She liked their idea, but she needed permission from the Principal. After telling all the parents, their teacher, Ms. Salma, gave them some rules to follow.
If anyone is sick, they can’t go because gorillas can get sick from people.
When near the gorillas, they have to stay 7 meters away.
They shouldn’t try to feed the gorillas.
No eating in front of the gorillas.
Only Ms. Salma can take pictures with the school camera, no flash.
No loud noises, gorillas might think it’s scary.
If the gorillas come close, don’t touch them. They might get scared.
No littering, they’ll eat at the park house.
If a gorilla runs toward them, they should stand still.
Everyone listened and was excited about the mountain trip. Ms. Salma said gorillas are friendly if they’re not scared.
On the day of the trip, Danti and his friends walked for 40 minutes to where Tamto and his brothers were.
They saw them eating bamboo shoots, stems, and fruits.
When they finished eating, the gorillas began playing.
Danti and his classmates watched and smiled for 50 minutes. T
hey stood 8 meters away, and Ms. Salma took pictures.
It was an amazing experience they would remember forever.
Lesson: This is a short guide on how to prepare to visit Mountain gorilla.
Source of the story about a gorilla
Before you go on the trek, it’s good to know about the land and how high up you’ll go.
Remember that the rainforest ground might be muddy and the way can be very steep.
The walk might last from 1 to 3 hours before you find a gorilla family.
Read more about what to expect before you go on a trek to see gorillas here.
He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said. Come, see the place where He was lying.
Mark 16:6
And he *said to them, “Do not be amazed; you are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who has been crucified. He has risen; He is not here; behold, here is the place where they laid Him.
saying, “The Lord has really risen and has appeared to Simon.”
2 Timothy 2:8
Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, descendant of David, according to my gospel,
1 Corinthians 15:20
But now Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who are asleep.
Revelation 1:5
and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To Him who loves us and released us from our sins by His blood—
Revelation 2:8
“And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write:The first and the last, who was dead, and has come to life, says this:
Mark 16:14
Afterward, He appeared to the eleven themselves as they were reclining at the table; and He reproached them for their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they had not believed those who had seen Him after He had risen.
John 21:14
This is now the third time that Jesus was manifested to the disciples, after He was raised from the dead.
Acts 1:3
To these He also presented Himself alive after His suffering, by many convincing proofs, appearing to them over a period of forty days and speaking of the things concerning the kingdom of God.
Mark 16:9
[Now after He had risen early on the first day of the week, He first appeared to Mary Magdalene, from whom He had cast out seven demons.
Acts 10:41
not to all the people, but to witnesses who were chosen beforehand by God, that is, to us who ate and drank with Him after He arose from the dead.
How does the death of Christ relate to Easter
Acts 1:22
beginning with the baptism of John until the day that He was taken up from us—one of these must become a witness with us of His resurrection.”
Acts 4:33
And with great power the apostles were giving testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and abundant grace was upon them all.
Acts 13:37
but He whom God raised did not undergo decay.
Romans 6:9
knowing that Christ, having been raised from the dead, is never to die again; death no longer is master over Him.
Romans 10:7
or ‘Who will descend into the abyss?’ (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead).”
Romans 7:4
“Therefore, my brethren, you also were made to die to the Law through the body of Christ, so that you might be joined to another, to Him who was raised from the dead, in order that we might bear fruit for God”.
Is Easter mentioned in the Bible?
Easter equals the resurrection of Jesus, even though the Bible doesn’t directly use that word.
Since the old testament times, it was known as the Passover Festival.
Romans 1:4
who was declared the Son of God with power by the resurrection from the dead, according to the Spirit of holiness, Jesus Christ our Lord,
Revelation 1:18
and the living One; and I was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of death and of Hades.
How do you celebrate Easter? In Cameroon, Christians go to church, sing resurrection-related songs, dance, and listen to a sermon about Christ.
To read about Good Friday and other Christian articles, click here.
Stone Town, or old town, was Zanzibar‘s first town. Even now, it boasts houses and structures crafted from stones. This picturesque island offers a wide array of activities to do and a restaurant or two at every street corner.
While both Zanzibarians and foreigners adore basking in the warm sea breeze, leisurely strolls across the island are equally rejuvenating.
Before we delve into dining options, let’s explore some distinctive facets of the city.
Unique Architecture
Zanzibar’s architecture holds a distinct charm. Almost all buildings, if not every one of them, are constructed primarily using stones.
During my time there, I observed a few construction sites where builders mixed fine white sea sand with cement.
This technique lends a sense of simplicity to the houses, likely leading to thicker walls. The plastering on these walls is smoother, offering an unusual touch when felt.
A Muslim school in Stone Town
Religious Beliefs
The majority of the people on the island practice Islam. It’s a common sight to see women and children wearing hijabs of various colors and materials.
While most men didn’t wear long robes and hats as I expected, many opted for traditional Muslim attire. This imparts a distinctive religious atmosphere to the city.
Additionally, mosques are scattered throughout the area, often found on nearly every street corner.
The island isn’t entirely tranquil due to the frequent loud calls to prayer broadcasted from these mosques.
There were around three mosques close to where I stayed. The loud prayer calls from outdoor speakers woke me up at 5 am every morning.
While taking a long walk, I noticed a few Catholic churches in the town center near Stone Town.
I tried to find an international church online, but none were easily located.
Language Barrier
The primary language spoken by most Zanzibar Islanders is Swahili. S
ome of them had a basic understanding of English, but they couldn’t engage in extended conversations using it.
Surprisingly, I encountered difficulties in communication.
Although some people were willing to help with directions, they couldn’t express themselves well and often chose not to speak.
Which restaurant should you go to?
The streets of the island are lined with an array of restaurants, each offering something unique for every kind of visitor. Whether you’re lounging by the waves at Jambiani or strolling through Forodhani Beach, there’s no shortage of dining options to tempt your taste buds. I found a mix of Italian restaurants and places with a more Western vibe, each providing a taste of something familiar but with a local twist.
What really stood out to me, though, was the effort each restaurant put into creating an atmosphere that went beyond just food. Many of the spots were decorated with intricate carvings and artistic pieces, turning the dining space into something more like a gallery.
The stylish décor was matched by carefully curated menus, and in some places, even the plates made me pause in awe before I took my first bite. It wasn’t just the flavors that captivated me—it was the artistry woven into every corner. From colorful paintings to detailed drawings adorning the walls, each place was a feast for the eyes as much as it was for the stomach.
Cape Town Fish Market Zanzibar resturant
At the distinctive boat-shaped restaurant perched at the edge of Farodaha Beach, is the Cape Town Fish Market Zanzibar restuarnt. I felt rejuvenated being so close to the water. The setting was stunning, with the ocean breeze adding a refreshing touch to the atmosphere. The prices, unsurprisingly, matched the fancy outdoor setup and high-end furniture, but the experience of working or chatting while feeling the gentle breeze made it all worthwhile.
On my first visit, I decided to try the lobster with cream sauce and fried potato chips from the menu. Within minutes, the server arrived with a generous serving— a lobster with its belly open, revealing a rich filling of shrimp bathed in a creamy sauce.
A side of sauce came along, though I couldn’t help but notice that the dish could have used a touch more salt to bring out the flavors. Despite that small detail, the meal was an enjoyable treat, especially with the beautiful beach setting.
On my second visit there, l drank only Coca-Cola while working. Acceptably, their internet was high speed and l peacefully worked as l watched the sunset.
Train House restaurant
Tucked away in the historic heart of Stone Town, there’s a charming restaurant housed in a grand train-like structure that has stood the test of time.
The wooden chairs, with their intricate carvings, offered both comfort and character, while the African-themed decor on the walls added a vibrant touch to the atmosphere. The Train House restaurant is a must-visit for the following reasons.
Whether I needed a spot to get some work done or simply wanted to enjoy a relaxed conversation, this place provided the perfect setting.
What truly caught my attention was their innovative approach to the menu. Instead of the usual printed version, they offered a scannable code that customers could use. To access the menu, I had to connect to their WiFi network, which made the experience feel modern and tech-savvy. It was a small detail, but it gave the restaurant a unique, forward-thinking vibe.
What did I order?
I opted for the grilled chicken and fries, but unfortunately, the wait was over an hour before my meal arrived. When it finally did, the chicken was slightly burnt and lacked seasoning or salt, which was disappointing. The salad seemed like an odd combination of cabbage, tomatoes, and cucumbers, all tossed together without much thought.
Although takeaways were offered, I found that dining in provided a better experience. The high-speed Wi-Fi was excellent, making it a great spot for both work and relaxation. Despite the potential noise from the nearby market, if you can tune it out, the atmosphere here is still perfect for enjoying a relaxing lunch or a refreshing drink.
Paje Ocean restaurant
The beachside restaurant had a simple, modest vibe, with a few worn wooden tables and chairs. What really caught my eye, though, was their breakfast buffet priced at 20,000 TSH, which seemed like a great deal given the variety it offered.The beachside restaurant had a simple, modest vibe, with a few worn wooden tables and chairs. What really caught my eye, though, was their breakfast buffet priced at 20,000 TSH, which seemed like a great deal given the variety it offered.
Despite the breathtaking view, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the restaurant offered reliable Wi-Fi. While I enjoyed the setting, I watched as they harvested coconuts from the many trees on the property. The coconuts were larger than those I had seen elsewhere, and the juice inside was wonderfully sweet.
The restaurant’s main wall featured a striking steel fishbone decoration, adding a unique touch that was both simple and eye-catching.
Mama Naa restaurant
For those seeking an affordable meal, Mama Naa Restaurant in Jambiani is an excellent option. Despite the basic plastic chairs and tables, I had a hearty meal of rice and potato soup with beef that only cost 5000 TSH—the most budget-friendly meal I’ve had at any restaurant in Zanzibar.
The portion was generous enough to satisfy my hunger, and I was truly impressed by how much food I got for such a low price.
On my second visit, I choose fried rice. Apparently, the quantity was sufficient for my stomach demands but the taste wasn’t delicious. I wasn’t too surprised I got just a slice of beef, but I should have expected so.
Pilipili Restaurant
Located just a meter from Jambiani Beach, this restaurant offered an exceptional view. It’s one of two establishments near the expansive Pili Pili Hotel. I was particularly impressed by the wooden canoe-like tables set into the sand. It was paired with a solid cemented couch for seating.
The hut-style section of the restaurant was decorated with beautiful paintings on every wall, and the atmosphere was enhanced by pleasant, lively music, creating a perfect vibe for a relaxed dining experience.
The restaurant also offered a variety of local and international dishes, making it a great spot for any craving. I enjoyed the fresh seafood, which was perfectly cooked and served with a side of tangy dipping sauces. The staff were friendly and attentive, adding to the overall welcoming atmosphere. As the sun began to set, the view became even more stunning, with the golden light reflecting off the waves, creating a truly magical setting. Whether you’re here for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, this spot provides a perfect mix of good food, great service, and breathtaking surroundings.
The restaurant had an open-air area with wooden chairs and tables, offering a perfect spot to enjoy the sea breeze. The waiter, Samuel, was exceptionally kind and even took me to their other location so I could check out their menu, which featured only tapas.
I decided to try the green banana fish tapas, served in a coconut shell plate. While the portion was small, the combination of banana and peanut fish paste was absolutely delicious. It made it a unique and flavorful dish.
Dhow Resort Jambiani Zanzibar
At the far end of Jambiani Beach sits the spacious Dhow Resort Jambiani Zanzibar restaurant. One evening, I relaxed on the outer bench-like seats, enjoying the soothing sea breeze. To add comfort, they provided soft cushions on the wooden seats, making the experience even more enjoyable.
Although I only ordered a drink, I was pleasantly surprised by a warm, unexpected treat. A waiter quickly handed me a wooden menu and took the time to explain their beverage options with great care.
The atmosphere at the restaurant was incredibly inviting, with the gentle sound of the waves in the background and the soft glow from lanterns lighting the space. The waitstaff were not only attentive but also took time to ensure I had everything I needed, creating a relaxing and welcoming environment.
As the evening wore on, the beach’s tranquility combined with the pleasant service made it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a peaceful moment by the sea. Uncertain about what to order, the waiter patiently listened to my preferences and offered me a drink to try at no charge. I chose the Stony Tangawizi, a Coca-Cola ginger soda. It had a distinctive taste, with a bold ginger flavor that really stood out.
To my surprise, the waiter also brought out complimentary popcorn and fried peanuts. However, the peanuts had a spice I couldn’t quite place, making it hard to continue enjoying the free snacks.
As you envision these tasty experiences, rest assured that finding a good restaurant here isn’t difficult. Beyond the spots I’ve mentioned, there are plenty of eateries scattered along the streets. Even the beaches, offering something for every taste.
Click here for more travel articles to other cities in Tanzania and around the world.
Good Friday is a significant day when devoted Christians express their gratitude for the sacrifice Jesus made on the cross.
He willingly shouldered all punishment and judgment to save us from sin and death.
This day serves as a potent reminder of the depth of His love for us. It also signifies the cost Jesus Christ paid so that we can enjoy true freedom and an abundant life filled with health, success, and blessings according to God’s Word.
Now is the time for us to approach Him with everything we need. Are you seeking healing in any area of your life?
Whether it’s physical, emotional, or a relational challenge, Jesus is the answer. He’s our Lord and has paid the complete price for everything concerning our past, present, and future.
Each stripe He bore on His body is meant to shield us. His suffering was for our healing (Isa. 53:4–5).
His broken body makes us entirely whole. Isn’t that incredible?
May this Good Friday be a celebration for you. Personally, it’s a day of immense gratitude for me.
Let’s choose to remember this incredible gift that Jesus sacrificed His life to give us!
Here are some Bible verses about Good Friday to aid in meditation.
For he was teaching his disciples, saying to them, “The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him. And when he is killed, after three days he will rise.”
But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed.
For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. For one will scarcely die for a righteous person—though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die— but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God. For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life.
And he began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders and the chief priests and the scribes and be killed, and after three days rise again.
For just as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.
The topic of who can become a refugee is no longer hidden; it’s a well-discussed matter. Almost anyone can find themselves in that position in just a day. This is the reason why we need to be deliberate to assist refugees because we can become one someday.
Millions of Ukrainians, for instance, didn’t anticipate needing refuge in different countries.
The escalation of wars and conflicts is leading to alarming rates of violent deaths and attacks on human lives.
Consequently, assisting refugees is not merely a humanitarian duty but a display of basic humanity. Offering support has evolved into a way of envisioning that others might do the same for us if unexpected challenges arise in our own countries.
Climate change, from droughts to famine, is another significant factor driving global migration.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) notes that the number of forcibly displaced individuals has reached a record high, with over 100 million forced to flee their homes due to conflicts and persecution.
Millions of refugees and displaced people from places like Afghanistan, Syria, Yemen, and Ukraine are facing incredibly difficult moments in their lives.
Your support can make a difference by saving lives, upholding human rights, and ensuring that resettled refugees can look forward to brighter futures.
There are countless ways to lend your support. This article outlines a few ways you can make a difference.
Donate things and money
Many people often assume that donations solely involve giving money.
While monetary contributions are a part of donations, they’re not the only way to help.
The UNHCR serves as a primary organization, registering and providing shelter, food, water, and protection for countless refugee families. It’s a great option for financial donations, but there are also numerous other humanitarian groups tirelessly aiding refugees.
These include the Jesuit Refugee Service, the International Rescue Committee, Save the Children, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and many more.
On their respective websites, you can donate funds or essential relief supplies.
In some cases, cash assistance is provided to vulnerable families. Even small amounts can make a significant impact on the lives of these distressed individuals.
Donate time to volunteer
Giving assistance doesn’t always have to follow the expected path, as many believe that help can only come in the form of money.
Volunteerism is a growing trend these days and has proven to be highly rewarding.
This can take various forms, such as visiting refugee families in urban or rural communities, spending quality time with them, or offering your skills at a local or international organization within your city.
Beyond the few organizations mentioned earlier, numerous non-governmental organizations operate in our neighborhoods or towns.
On a personal note, I dedicated nearly 6 years to volunteering at both local and international organizations.
In Malaysia, I served as a public relations assistant at Sameskies, an organization supporting refugees from various countries.
My contributions included managing social media posts and creating leadership training content for specific projects.
Many organizations now offer opportunities for online volunteerism, so physical travel isn’t always necessary.
While some, like the UN, provide compensation for your time, others may request your services on a voluntary basis.
Assist refugees by advocating for their rights
Assisting refugees in these ways involves two approaches.
Firstly, you can become part of the global community by collaborating with elected officials and community leaders to safeguard the rights of refugees. This effort can lead to their warm reception in your community.
This might entail composing policy documents or making in-person visits.
Others contribute by sharing refugee-related content on social media, which can involve reposting stories from refugee organizations or crafting blogs like this one to shed light on their challenges.
Assist refugees by offering your space
In the end, even after their arduous journey to safety, refugees continue to require our assistance. We can assist refugees in many ways.
You have the opportunity to extend a warm welcome to newcomers in your community by providing shelter, offering support, or even helping them find employment.
While this might carry a personal touch for many, you can also spread awareness about their stories and seek out volunteer and sponsorship chances in your vicinity to aid refugee families.
In a place near a big mountain called Fako, there lived a girl named Hidi. She liked simple things but had never tried swimming. One day, Hidi’s friends and neighbors wanted to go swimming in a lake.
They invited Hidi, even though she didn’t know how to swim. Her mom was worried because Hidi was only 7 years old. The neighbors promised to take care of her, so her mom agreed.
Hidi happily went with them to the lake. They sang on the way. When they arrived, everyone was excited.
The lake looked calm and ready for swimmers. Hidi was told not to go in because it was deep. She changed into her swimsuit like the others.
What happened at the lake?
While her friends dived from a high rock, Hidi sat by the water. She watched and clapped. She enjoyed being near the water.
After a while, her friends took a break. Hidi stayed by the water, singing. She was having fun.
Suddenly, she slipped into the water because of algae. She started drowning. So, she tried to call for help but swallowed water. Strangely, she started counting her fingers in the water, which was strange.
Her friend saw her and saved her. They did CPR, and she woke up. Everyone was thankful she was okay.
Hidi’s mom was worried when they got home. Her mom hugged her and took care of her. Hidi was scared of swimming after that.
As she got older, she stayed near the water but didn’t swim. Years later, Hidi and her cousin went on a trip.
They swam in a pool and at the beach. Her cousin helped her learn to swim. Hidi overcame her fear and became brave to swim again.
Lesson: Don’t give up in life. Just because you had a bad experience doing something doesn’t mean you can never do it. Anybody can learn how to swim if they want.
The story is my true life as a child.
Thislink has articles to many encouraging children’s stories.
Contractions are also called shortcuts. It is a word formed by shortening.
Typically, it combines two words-nouns and verbs.
Generally, people use contractions in both speaking and writing.
Rule: To write contraction, we must use an apostrophe (‘)
I am = I’m You are = You’re He is = He’s She is = She’s It is = It’s We are = We’re They are = They’re
I am not = I’m not You are not = You’re not/You aren’t He is not = He’s not/He isn’t She is not = She’s not/She isn’t It is not = It’s not/It isn’t We are not = We’re not/We aren’t They are not = They’re not/They aren’t
Examples
Can + not = We can’t come today because of the rain.
Do + not = You don’t need to cook. We will bring food.
I + have = I’ve been a student at Yale for 4 years now.
Could + not = They couldn’t play outside because it was snowing.
You + will = You’ll be expected to make a speech at the conference.
We + are = We’re siblings. We live in Buea city.
She + is = She’s my younger sister.
Exception
The word won’t is a little different from the other contractions. It means will not, even though the word will isn’t there. This is because won’t is based on a much older form of the word will. Even though the word changed, the contraction stayed the same!
Contractions can be used in both formal and informal writing, including academic papers for the former and newspapers, fiction, and instructions for the latter. They make texts simpler and easier to read.
