Dinner Date

It was nearly dark when we sat down to dinner last night at a newly enlarged and remodeled restaurant here in Zomba.  As we glanced around, we realized that the whole staff was preparing for some huge event. Of course, we had no idea what, but we knew it was going to be big.  

From time to time, we saw the owner moving smoothly through all the staging, pointing here and there, orchestrating the event. Then, lights flashed on a huge stereo system, and it began pulsing an African beat. All the while cases and cases of drinks were being loaded in the bars and candles were being lit at each table. 

When dozens of  UNICEF emblazoned SUVs  began pulling into the lot a few minutes later, we saw whose event we were sitting in the middle of. Evidently, this was the opening day of this massive aid agency's conference.  Soon, attendees were feasting on the sumptuous buffet and chatting around  the two open bars. 

George and I were quietly reviewing the day, and taking it all in as we enjoyed our meal, but our eyes popped when the live entertainment started.  As the music pulsed, two midgets took the stage and started dancing like I didn't know was possible. A variety of American rap and Malawian Chichewa music rocked the place while the two midgets grooved on. 

Near the end of our meal, one of the little dancers swooped out of his teeshirt, swirled it about his head, flung it to the side and continued dancing. 

Not to be outdone, the other midget dropped to the floor and began breakdancing and doing one arm handstands. It was certainly not what we expected when we sat down for a quiet dinner for two.