Egypt Revolution One Year Later

Cotton candy with your tear gas?

We still remain fine and not in danger from the protests and violence of recent months.  Those very unfortunate incidents are mostly in and around downtown Cairo.  We are several kilometers away.  That being said, from the optimism of the Revolution a year ago until today, there has been a definite slide away from law and order.  The country is being "governed" by the Supreme Council of Armed Forces (SCAF) who are: 1. Trained in military strategies, not government procedures, 2. An integral and well-heeled part of the former regime who want to protect their position and resources.  While the army was hailed as heroes a year ago, since then security forces have shot protestors and abused women in the streets, saying protestors were attacking them first or "foreign influences" are responsible.  The internal police were the villains in the Revolution, so they were conspicuously absent and/or reluctant to get involved. So lawlessness has increased.  What started as purse-snatchings and occasional break-ins and car thefts has escalated into bank robberies in broad daylight and heists of armored cars.  Now a soccer riot in Port Said ("Sy-eed" which is 75 miles northeast of Cairo) kills over 74 people and police prevention/intervention was missing.  Again none of this has happened in Maadi, but it is clear the newly elected Parliament needs to establish a new constitution and a president elected.

First day of the new Parliament.  Wake up!

   Now six Americans (one the son of the US Transportation Secretary) involved in an NGO (non-government organization) to promote democracy in Egypt are being prevented from leaving Egypt and are staying at the US Embassy to avoid possible arrest.  I am guessing they are being suspected of being part of the "foreign influences" destabilizing Egypt by advocating for freedom.  It is a diplomatic crisis that may suggest fracturing in the foundation of the relationship between US and Egypt.  Layered in with the saber-rattling between the US and Iran, it is not the best time to be an American in the Middle East.  In answer to the next question some of you have already asked, "Because we are called by God to be here and hope we are making a difference."  There is great anxiety among the average Egyptian--Muslim and Coptic Christian.  There is also a rise in despair as the the Revolution seems to have stalled or feared to have been hi-jacked by various groups vying for control. The ex-pats are more fearful and cautious, plus they are certainly fewer here than three years ago.  Some company and diplomatic jobs are being filled by unaccompanied men, while families remain back in their home countries.  All of this provides tremendous opportunity for ministry.  We have to remember what 2 Timothy 1:7 says, "For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline."  1 John 4:18 says, "There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear."  Our goal is to engage people around us to bring hope and encouragement.  God does His greatest work when in the darkest times when we least expect it (just like with the crucifixion and resurrection)!

Alex senior picture

   Now for the personal update.  Karan is still a learning support services (aka special education) teacher in the middle school at Cairo American College (prep school).  She has had her contract renewed for another year.  She still loves what she is doing, even if it is exhausting some days.  Alex finished soccer this past Fall with a tournament in London where he scored a team-high four goals for the tournament.  An even bigger highlight was getting his braces off in November.  He is now in basketball (in London this weekend for a tournament) and their end of season tournament will be in Belgium.  (No, the school does not pay for any of these trips.)  Then it's on to baseball in March.  Alex has been accepted at Western Washington University (Bellingham), Washington State University (Pullman), Gonzaga University (Spokane), and Whitworth University (Spokane).  Alex wants to go to Gonzaga (to watch their Division 1-A top twenty basketball team), but the $33K tuition per year will need immense amounts of financial aid for that to happen.  His next choice is Western Washington University where Brett is.

Athena temple in the Parthenon

   Brett is working in his final year of college to complete a graphic design major and is beginning his job search.  He was here with us at Christmas.  We spent five days in Athens, Greece and it was glorious.  The cool weather and mostly sunny days were balm to our frazzled souls.  We were able to relax, see amazing historical sites, eat yummy Greek food (and Karan drank lots of Greek wine), walk around in a place with Christmas everywhere, and laugh together as a family. Travis wasn't able to be with us this year, due to his work schedule. He continues to work for Verizon and we are thrilled that he not only has a job, but one in which he is doing so well.

Delphi oracle in Greece

   Please continue to pray for Egypt.  We need and appreciate your prayers for our family.  God is good. We are thankful to be here at this time and in this place.  It is a privilege!
   You can also follow Steve's sporadic tweets on Twitter: @srflora  And check out the Maadi Community Church blog at www.maadicommunitychurch.com/blog