Since my return from Uganda, many things have happened. If you followed my blog you may recall my visit with the Karamojong in Kampala. They are a tribe of semi-nomadic cattle herders from Northeastern Uganda. For reasons such as violence and hunger, they have migrated to Uganda's capital city, Kampala in search for a better life. Unfortunately, they were not welcomed there and have been forced to live on the outskirts of the city in deplorable slum districts. For 40 cents a night, they can crawl under a piece of polythene (a thick plastic bag) to sleep. Sadly, most can't afford even this small amount. As I was leaving from visiting them, I travelled through alleys and witnessed adolescent girls crawling in the streets looking for beans. Rape, beatings, forced prostitution and trafficking are all very real to these girls. It was at this time that I instantly knew that I had to do something. Anything. I have daughters and seeing their conditions broke my heart.
When I returned back to the states, I appealed to my family and friends and they immediately decided to get involved. We were able to raise enough money to rent a home and supply it with beds and essentials and on May 4th (my oldest daughter's birthday), the home welcomed 22 girls and a full-time house mother.
It costs $2000 per month to feed, clothe and educate the girls and we desperately need donations from others to keep them housed. If you would like to join us in doing for "the least of these", please go to our website to learn more and possibly donate. We are now an established 501(c)(3) organization and all donations are tax deductible. We would appreciate any help you are able to give.
Our nonprofit is called 91four and is based on psalm 91:4 "He will cover you with His feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection."
91four
P.O. Box 190
Jewett, Ohio 43986
Website: www.91four.org
Email: support@91four.org
Facebook: 91four
Saturday, July 19, 2014
Monday, February 10, 2014
Some Concluding Thoughts
It is Monday at 5:30 am. We are on a 2 hour delay. I arrived in Pittsburgh at 6:30 pm Friday and I was beyond excited to see my family. We drove straight home and I have not left the house since. I have been sleeping for the better part of the weekend. Jet lag. When you fly across that many time zones, the jet lag is fierce. I continually feel like I am recovering from anesthesia. Disoriented, dehydrated, no appetite. But the thing that has been the hardest is the feelings I have deep within my being. I miss the friends that I made and all of the children I came to love. Their faces and voices and songs are going round and round in my head and I want so much to be able to see them and talk to them. And at the same time, the horrors of what I saw haunt me relentlessly. The cowardly thing to do would be to put into gear those defense mechanisms I have learned all too well and pretend that either it wasn't as horrible as it appeared, or that if I just absorb myself back into my comfortable culture, I will feel better. But the truth is, that it was horrible and that I know that I can never view life, mine or anyone else's, the same again. I know that there are people in Uganda who are holding out hope that I will remember them and their sufferings. And not just remember, but actively engage myself and others, in loving them the way Jesus does.
I haven't talked to anybody except the people in my house since I have returned home. I honestly am struggling for words. What do you say when someone says, "Tell me all about it." Or "How did you like Africa?" I know this sounds simple and I should just answer the questions, but my experience and memories of it, are still so raw and personal and I have not quite figured out what to do with these feelings. I think that is why I am writing this. It is easier to write it than to talk about it. I cried all the way home from the airport and my husband was confused as to why. I was confused too. I guess it was because it was all so beautiful and so traumatizing at the same time. I need your continued prayers.
Great memories:
Kibule, our driver, saying in his very limited English, "Uganda is easy." He saiid this because the people are kind and loving for the most part.
Despite their circumstances, the Ugandan people seem to hold out Hope and look for the good and the blessings in life.
I have never known anyone as gracious and polite as the people I met. Always saying, "Welcome back, Terra." Even if I just walked out and right back into the gate. Everyone would say, "Welcome back!"
They prepare meals for you and refuse to let you help with anything because you are a guest.
"Never give up" was written across the back of a vehicle i saw driving by.
*Riding as the 3rd person on a boda boda
*squatting over pit latrines everywhere I went (Even had to pay $2 to squat over one in the city.)
*dead cockroach in my bed
*accepting and eating a piece of fruit from the very dirty hand of a small child (how could I say no?)
*cooking all of our meals outside over an open fire
*having to explain over and over again why Americans are fat (they use that word as a compliment and want to know how they can be fat too)
*trying to convince my new friends that I was not a 25 year old Spanish girl (although I felt very complimented!)
*telling the story over and over again about why I have so many dogs and why I put a sweater on them if they are cold. They laughed harder each time I tried to explain.
*explaining snow and sled riding and snow men
*Recho asking where "the place of convenience" was when I was asking where the bathroom was
*a Ugandan man wearing a Cowgirl Up thirst
What I learned about myself:
*that when I am weak, He is strong
*i am to be a light in the darkness, and what that really looks like
*i have a larger capacity to love and be loved than I knew before
*i am braver than I thought I was
This is the information for ECM:
Every Child Ministries
PO Box 810
Hebron, IN 46341
Www.ecmafrica.org
219-996-4201
As I mentioned earlier, I will be working to raise money. I will be selling beads made by the children so that I can send the money back to their projects. Recho and I are working together to create a safe place for the at risk Karimojong girls to stay and sleep at night. They have to come off of the streets. They are being beaten and exploited in unimaginable ways. This is going to take the help of others to raise enough money to help protect them but they are among Uganda's most vulnerable and that is why I have decided to focus on them. If you would like to help me in any way possible, please contact me:
sunbuggymoon@yahoo.com.
You can also call me if you have my phone number; I am not going to post it online. Or for those of you I see on a daily basis, just ask me how you can help.
Thank you for taking this journey with me. Your prayers gave me strength when otherwise I would have fallen apart.
I love you all!!!!!!!!!!
Terra
"I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eyes." Psalm 32:8
I haven't talked to anybody except the people in my house since I have returned home. I honestly am struggling for words. What do you say when someone says, "Tell me all about it." Or "How did you like Africa?" I know this sounds simple and I should just answer the questions, but my experience and memories of it, are still so raw and personal and I have not quite figured out what to do with these feelings. I think that is why I am writing this. It is easier to write it than to talk about it. I cried all the way home from the airport and my husband was confused as to why. I was confused too. I guess it was because it was all so beautiful and so traumatizing at the same time. I need your continued prayers.
Great memories:
Kibule, our driver, saying in his very limited English, "Uganda is easy." He saiid this because the people are kind and loving for the most part.
Despite their circumstances, the Ugandan people seem to hold out Hope and look for the good and the blessings in life.
I have never known anyone as gracious and polite as the people I met. Always saying, "Welcome back, Terra." Even if I just walked out and right back into the gate. Everyone would say, "Welcome back!"
They prepare meals for you and refuse to let you help with anything because you are a guest.
"Never give up" was written across the back of a vehicle i saw driving by.
*Riding as the 3rd person on a boda boda
*squatting over pit latrines everywhere I went (Even had to pay $2 to squat over one in the city.)
*dead cockroach in my bed
*accepting and eating a piece of fruit from the very dirty hand of a small child (how could I say no?)
*cooking all of our meals outside over an open fire
*having to explain over and over again why Americans are fat (they use that word as a compliment and want to know how they can be fat too)
*trying to convince my new friends that I was not a 25 year old Spanish girl (although I felt very complimented!)
*telling the story over and over again about why I have so many dogs and why I put a sweater on them if they are cold. They laughed harder each time I tried to explain.
*explaining snow and sled riding and snow men
*Recho asking where "the place of convenience" was when I was asking where the bathroom was
*a Ugandan man wearing a Cowgirl Up thirst
What I learned about myself:
*that when I am weak, He is strong
*i am to be a light in the darkness, and what that really looks like
*i have a larger capacity to love and be loved than I knew before
*i am braver than I thought I was
This is the information for ECM:
Every Child Ministries
PO Box 810
Hebron, IN 46341
Www.ecmafrica.org
219-996-4201
As I mentioned earlier, I will be working to raise money. I will be selling beads made by the children so that I can send the money back to their projects. Recho and I are working together to create a safe place for the at risk Karimojong girls to stay and sleep at night. They have to come off of the streets. They are being beaten and exploited in unimaginable ways. This is going to take the help of others to raise enough money to help protect them but they are among Uganda's most vulnerable and that is why I have decided to focus on them. If you would like to help me in any way possible, please contact me:
sunbuggymoon@yahoo.com.
You can also call me if you have my phone number; I am not going to post it online. Or for those of you I see on a daily basis, just ask me how you can help.
Thank you for taking this journey with me. Your prayers gave me strength when otherwise I would have fallen apart.
I love you all!!!!!!!!!!
Terra
"I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eyes." Psalm 32:8
Thursday, February 6, 2014
All Packed and Ready To Go
It is Thursday at 5:30 pm. I will be leaving for the airport at 7:00. My flight leaves out of Africa at 12:45 am. I will be on that plane for approx 9 hours. I will land in London and fly to Chicago and that flight will be another 9 hours. From Chicago to Pittsburgh, another 1 1/2 hours and home! I realize the weather has been awful so there may be delays and cancelations, esp. the Chicago flight, so please pray. I miss my family and friends and I am so anxious to see them!!! :)
When I return to The Farm :), I will be posting my final thoughts as well as information about ECM if you would like to get involved. I have many projects that I have to begin working on when I return such as selling handmade beaded necklaces made by the children, helping to organize and begin a program for at risk adolescent girls in Karimojong, just to name a couple. Remember, if Jesus isn't calling you to help Ugandans, He is certainly calling you to work for Him in some capacity. Pray and ask for His guidance and He will direct you to your calling. I pray that our eyes and our hearts have been opened through this experience and that we will allow His light to shine through us. We are his hands and His feet and there is much work to be done.
I love you all so much. Thank you for following me to brave!!!
"Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, When it is in the power of your hand to do so." Proverbs 3:27
When I return to The Farm :), I will be posting my final thoughts as well as information about ECM if you would like to get involved. I have many projects that I have to begin working on when I return such as selling handmade beaded necklaces made by the children, helping to organize and begin a program for at risk adolescent girls in Karimojong, just to name a couple. Remember, if Jesus isn't calling you to help Ugandans, He is certainly calling you to work for Him in some capacity. Pray and ask for His guidance and He will direct you to your calling. I pray that our eyes and our hearts have been opened through this experience and that we will allow His light to shine through us. We are his hands and His feet and there is much work to be done.
I love you all so much. Thank you for following me to brave!!!
"Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, When it is in the power of your hand to do so." Proverbs 3:27
A Beautiful Day
It is Thursday at 1:00 pm and it is my last day here. We did not schedule any field work today so I am able to relax and visit with my new friends, young and old. I was too exhausted to post last night when I returned so I can update you now.
Yesterday was a very long day of walking and visiting. Allen, Rachel and I started by taxi and went to Kamwokya to meet Richard and Linda. We then walked a very far distance (far to me, although they are always telling me, "It is close."). Their idea of near and my idea are very different! ;) The first stop we made was to a slum area where we stopped at a mud house to visit the mother of one of the sponsored children. The home was maybe 5x8 and I believe 4 lived there. The mother was very unloving to the daughter that was present asking that she be taken far away. It was a confusing situation for me as the project coordinators were trying so hard to talk some sense into the mother.
The next stop (again, a very long walk) was another slum district and another family visit. This time to a mother of 6 and grandmama of one. She was living in the same type of dwelling as the first family. She was a Christian woman and cried and cried. When I asked why she was crying, I was told because she was so grateful to God and ECM for all of their blessings.'" And she was living in complete and utter poverty. A small dark room with no items of comfort just bleak and depressing. And yet, she was crying tears of joy.
Our last stop was to a hospital to visit the sponsored child who was hit by the taxi. He is recovering and will be discharged soon. The problem is that the family is destitute and unable to pay the hospital bill so they refuse to release the child. So every day the bill increases for keeping the child whose parents cannot afford the current bill! So frustrating! The ECM staff was looking into allocating emergency funds. I am not sure of the outcome.
Then it was time to say a final farewell to Richard and Linda. As we parted ways, I felt sad and wondered how I would handle saying goodbye very soon to the rest of my friends.
When I arrived back late in the evening my little friends were waiting so we played and I fed them cookies. They do not understand that soon I will be leaving.
There were a pile of ants and a dead roach on my bed last night. That is all I will say about that.
When I woke this morning, I checked my online journal (is that a better word than blog?) and read my brother Matt's comments. It was the first time I really allowed myself to cry. I have been so afraid that if it start I will never stop, but the tears poured down my cheeks. I cried so hard because he really got it. He understood what I have been feeling for so long. The Lord has been speaking to my heart and calling me to action for some time now and I understand, I really do, why everyone else does not feel this calling and this pain, but when I read his words, I finally felt like someone understood. My brother and I have a relationship where we seem to know how the other is feeling or what the other is thinking before we even share it. This is a blessing from God, to have someone who knows you so well and still loves you for exactly who you are. I love you Matt.
I feel like I need to say that I do not expect others to share my desire to love the people of Uganda. God placed Uganda on my heart so I am here. If God has placed America, Iceland, the slums of New York City, your next door neighbors, the elderly gentleman at church, someone in your workplace, addicts, the lonely, the handicapped, (I could go on) on your heart...move to action. Love them with all of the strength and resources you can muster. Be obedient to your Maker and live your life intentionally. We are not perfect but we all know what it feels like to want to be loved, to be cared for by someone, to know you matter, to feel you were created for a higher purpose and not just here by accident or because of a mistake. Everyone thinks that I have been a blessing to the people I have met in Uganda, but make no mistake... I am the one who has been blessed.
Yesterday was a very long day of walking and visiting. Allen, Rachel and I started by taxi and went to Kamwokya to meet Richard and Linda. We then walked a very far distance (far to me, although they are always telling me, "It is close."). Their idea of near and my idea are very different! ;) The first stop we made was to a slum area where we stopped at a mud house to visit the mother of one of the sponsored children. The home was maybe 5x8 and I believe 4 lived there. The mother was very unloving to the daughter that was present asking that she be taken far away. It was a confusing situation for me as the project coordinators were trying so hard to talk some sense into the mother.
The next stop (again, a very long walk) was another slum district and another family visit. This time to a mother of 6 and grandmama of one. She was living in the same type of dwelling as the first family. She was a Christian woman and cried and cried. When I asked why she was crying, I was told because she was so grateful to God and ECM for all of their blessings.'" And she was living in complete and utter poverty. A small dark room with no items of comfort just bleak and depressing. And yet, she was crying tears of joy.
Our last stop was to a hospital to visit the sponsored child who was hit by the taxi. He is recovering and will be discharged soon. The problem is that the family is destitute and unable to pay the hospital bill so they refuse to release the child. So every day the bill increases for keeping the child whose parents cannot afford the current bill! So frustrating! The ECM staff was looking into allocating emergency funds. I am not sure of the outcome.
Then it was time to say a final farewell to Richard and Linda. As we parted ways, I felt sad and wondered how I would handle saying goodbye very soon to the rest of my friends.
When I arrived back late in the evening my little friends were waiting so we played and I fed them cookies. They do not understand that soon I will be leaving.
There were a pile of ants and a dead roach on my bed last night. That is all I will say about that.
When I woke this morning, I checked my online journal (is that a better word than blog?) and read my brother Matt's comments. It was the first time I really allowed myself to cry. I have been so afraid that if it start I will never stop, but the tears poured down my cheeks. I cried so hard because he really got it. He understood what I have been feeling for so long. The Lord has been speaking to my heart and calling me to action for some time now and I understand, I really do, why everyone else does not feel this calling and this pain, but when I read his words, I finally felt like someone understood. My brother and I have a relationship where we seem to know how the other is feeling or what the other is thinking before we even share it. This is a blessing from God, to have someone who knows you so well and still loves you for exactly who you are. I love you Matt.
I feel like I need to say that I do not expect others to share my desire to love the people of Uganda. God placed Uganda on my heart so I am here. If God has placed America, Iceland, the slums of New York City, your next door neighbors, the elderly gentleman at church, someone in your workplace, addicts, the lonely, the handicapped, (I could go on) on your heart...move to action. Love them with all of the strength and resources you can muster. Be obedient to your Maker and live your life intentionally. We are not perfect but we all know what it feels like to want to be loved, to be cared for by someone, to know you matter, to feel you were created for a higher purpose and not just here by accident or because of a mistake. Everyone thinks that I have been a blessing to the people I have met in Uganda, but make no mistake... I am the one who has been blessed.
Tuesday, February 4, 2014
Tuesday
It is Wednesday at 7:30 am. We had no electricity yesterday so I was unable to post Tuesdays events. I will take the opportunity to do that now.
Recho, Allen and I began with a stop in the village where I am staying to pick up a handicapped child and his grandmother. We took them to a hospital that deals directly with the disabled so he could get his first examination since birth (he is now 3 years old). We were told he has cerebral palsy and will need 2 pieces of equipment in his home for daily physical therapy. His grandmama could never afford something like this, so I will cover the cost. It will be approx $100 US only, and will possibly change the rest of his life. It will be a long process. But his muscles with eventually work much better than they do now and he may someday be able to walk on his own with arm crutches.
After, we drove to Kyampisi Childcare Ministries who promotes and supports child empowerment. We specifically went to visit Hope, a child that was first placed with ECM and then transferred to this ministry. Hope is 9 years old and was kidnapped by witch doctors at 18 months. They kept her lying at an alter with her arms and legs tied behind her for 2 years. They sacrificed some body parts and collected her blood and gave her only enough food and water to keep her alive. She was found lying in a field, still tied. They have named her Hope because it is obvious that she is still alive because God decided to keep her here. She is an absolute ray of sunshine to witness. She loves people and spends most of her time smiling. Hope is only one example of thousands. There are 2 other small boys at this facility with stories too explicit to share here. The problem of child kidnapping and slavery is rampant here and while there are good people trying to rid the country of this evil, it is a slow and frustrating process. I watched the children in my village playing last night, and as I held them in my arms and rocked them, I feared for their futures. Not these ones dear Lord, please surround them with a hedge of protection of your angels today and always.
After visiting Hope, we stopped at Mulago Hospital (Uganda's largest national hospital). We went to visit a mother and her 9 month old child. The child was born handicapped. He can not cry or stretch out his limbs. He has the appearance of a 1 month old baby. The hospital hasn't been able to offer this mother any solutions but she continues to sit there day and night with her child. In Uganda, some mothers are blamed by their families for producing a handicapped child, and this was the case for her. At least at the hospital she was able to get a small meal each day. I felt so helpless as it was clear to me that this baby was in such bad shape and his beautiful young mama could only sit and watch him deteriorate.
When we arrived back at our village, I showered and rested. Around 5:00, I went outside of our locked gate and sat in a chair to read my Bible. Almost immediately, a very young child came towards me carrying an infant baby like a rag doll and handed her to me. And then the child ran off! I held the baby for awhile waiting for someone (the mother?) to come for her, but no one came. The baby was coughing and her nose was running green. Finally the little child came back with a hat and blanket, and I said, "Take the baby to her mama. She is sick." She she took her and I watched her hand her to a woman in the distance. The woman, clearly not satisfied with my response, walked to me with her baby and said in very broken English, "She is sick. I need medicine." I know that there is a clinic very nearby, so I gave her money for an antibiotic and cough medicine. I can only pray she will spend the money on the medicine. People here are always coming to you to share their particular stories of struggle. You really have to use so much discernment in deciding who and how you can help. I tend to focus on the children and I try to use my resources to provide for them.
After the mama left, my 4 little friends showed up to play for the evening. They have been the highlight of my stay. To one little girl, Kate, I have grown very attached. She crawls into my lap and stares into my eyes and rubs my skin. She loves me so much and I love her even more. She is about 3 years old and I have not yet been able to locate a mama that belongs to her. She just runs around in the evening, maybe in the care of a neighbor? The first evening that I had to send her home, she burst into the saddest tears I have ever seen. I look forward to seeing her when I return from my work today.
I will be doing family visits for the Kamwokya project. One visit will include a hospital to visit one of their sponsored children who was hit by a car on Wed 1/29/14. I believe that he remains in a coma with a brain injury. He was walking where he was supposed to, when a speeding taxi swerved and hit him. They said his mama witnessed it and passed out. I can not begin to imagine her grief.
"Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying." -Romans 12:12
Recho, Allen and I began with a stop in the village where I am staying to pick up a handicapped child and his grandmother. We took them to a hospital that deals directly with the disabled so he could get his first examination since birth (he is now 3 years old). We were told he has cerebral palsy and will need 2 pieces of equipment in his home for daily physical therapy. His grandmama could never afford something like this, so I will cover the cost. It will be approx $100 US only, and will possibly change the rest of his life. It will be a long process. But his muscles with eventually work much better than they do now and he may someday be able to walk on his own with arm crutches.
After, we drove to Kyampisi Childcare Ministries who promotes and supports child empowerment. We specifically went to visit Hope, a child that was first placed with ECM and then transferred to this ministry. Hope is 9 years old and was kidnapped by witch doctors at 18 months. They kept her lying at an alter with her arms and legs tied behind her for 2 years. They sacrificed some body parts and collected her blood and gave her only enough food and water to keep her alive. She was found lying in a field, still tied. They have named her Hope because it is obvious that she is still alive because God decided to keep her here. She is an absolute ray of sunshine to witness. She loves people and spends most of her time smiling. Hope is only one example of thousands. There are 2 other small boys at this facility with stories too explicit to share here. The problem of child kidnapping and slavery is rampant here and while there are good people trying to rid the country of this evil, it is a slow and frustrating process. I watched the children in my village playing last night, and as I held them in my arms and rocked them, I feared for their futures. Not these ones dear Lord, please surround them with a hedge of protection of your angels today and always.
After visiting Hope, we stopped at Mulago Hospital (Uganda's largest national hospital). We went to visit a mother and her 9 month old child. The child was born handicapped. He can not cry or stretch out his limbs. He has the appearance of a 1 month old baby. The hospital hasn't been able to offer this mother any solutions but she continues to sit there day and night with her child. In Uganda, some mothers are blamed by their families for producing a handicapped child, and this was the case for her. At least at the hospital she was able to get a small meal each day. I felt so helpless as it was clear to me that this baby was in such bad shape and his beautiful young mama could only sit and watch him deteriorate.
When we arrived back at our village, I showered and rested. Around 5:00, I went outside of our locked gate and sat in a chair to read my Bible. Almost immediately, a very young child came towards me carrying an infant baby like a rag doll and handed her to me. And then the child ran off! I held the baby for awhile waiting for someone (the mother?) to come for her, but no one came. The baby was coughing and her nose was running green. Finally the little child came back with a hat and blanket, and I said, "Take the baby to her mama. She is sick." She she took her and I watched her hand her to a woman in the distance. The woman, clearly not satisfied with my response, walked to me with her baby and said in very broken English, "She is sick. I need medicine." I know that there is a clinic very nearby, so I gave her money for an antibiotic and cough medicine. I can only pray she will spend the money on the medicine. People here are always coming to you to share their particular stories of struggle. You really have to use so much discernment in deciding who and how you can help. I tend to focus on the children and I try to use my resources to provide for them.
After the mama left, my 4 little friends showed up to play for the evening. They have been the highlight of my stay. To one little girl, Kate, I have grown very attached. She crawls into my lap and stares into my eyes and rubs my skin. She loves me so much and I love her even more. She is about 3 years old and I have not yet been able to locate a mama that belongs to her. She just runs around in the evening, maybe in the care of a neighbor? The first evening that I had to send her home, she burst into the saddest tears I have ever seen. I look forward to seeing her when I return from my work today.
I will be doing family visits for the Kamwokya project. One visit will include a hospital to visit one of their sponsored children who was hit by a car on Wed 1/29/14. I believe that he remains in a coma with a brain injury. He was walking where he was supposed to, when a speeding taxi swerved and hit him. They said his mama witnessed it and passed out. I can not begin to imagine her grief.
"Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying." -Romans 12:12
Monday, February 3, 2014
My Visit to the Karimojong
It is Monday at 9 pm. I am tired and yet I realize as I write these words that I will lay my head down on a pillow in a soft bed to sleep tonight. Not so for the people that I met today. They will lay outside on the ground, surrounded by garbage, the same as every night unless they can come up with 500 schillings (less than an American dollar). If they can, they will share a room with 9 other people. I took a picture of the inside of one so you could see it. Scroll down at the pics and you will see one with a few women standing inside.
What I saw today was beyond any description I can put into words. Recho is the coordinator for the Karimojong people. I talked about them in an earlier post but I will repeat in case you didn't read it. The Karimojong are a people group from up north, a place called Karimojo Land. They are cattle herders and very good at what they do. For some reason, there is conflicting information, they migrated to Kampala. It is believed they were forced, but the government here is trying to force them back. They are despised by society and treated horribly. As a result, they live in the most extreme and shocking conditions known to man. I witnessed it today firsthand and I am forever changed. It was as if I had entered into someone's nightmare, but it was real. I was having so much trouble comprehending what I was seeing. They welcomed me so warmly and thanked me over and over and over again...Just for coming. They sang and danced for me and their leaders took turns giving small speeches to greet me. Recho translated. I sat in awe just trying to nod my head and smile. I held their hands as they knelt on the ground in front of me to show respect. I should have been on my knees in front of them. And through it all they sang praises to Jesus and clapped and cheered when I told them that He loved them. I kept revisiting Bible passages in my mind. The treatment of the lepers became real. I was a part of the story. I had just read Luke 10: 30-37 ( if you do not know it off hand, please read it), and suddenly I realized why. And I now really do understand that the ruler of this world is Satan and that he has brought so much destruction and that he wants us to believe that Jesus isn't strong but we know that He who is in us is greater than he who is in the world. 1 John 4:4.
Jesus has the power and authority to do whatever He wills, but what He wills is for his children (you and me) to love one another. And love means you do not let your brothers and sisters in Christ starve to death and die alone in a garbage heap. Matthew 25:34-40 is not hypothetical. James 2:1-9 is not a suggestion. And rich in faith the Karimojong are. Oh, if only my love and faith for our savior could be as deep and authentic as theirs.
I have never had such juxtaposed feelings. Hating what I see and loving what I witness. Wanting to run away as fast as possible and never look back and feeling like I should never leave. Feeling like I was in a bad dream and feeling reality for the first time in my life. Horrible beauty. Satan's evil and God's glory. My heart bled and filled with love at the same time.
It is so overwhelming that it can be tempting to think the problems are just too big, but I have never forgotten the story I was told about the boy walking on the beach one morning where thousands of starfish had been washed ashore. He was picking up one at a time and tossing them back into the ocean when a man came along and asked, "Boy, why do you bother? Do you really think it's going to make a difference." The boy having just released one into the water replied, "it made a difference for that one."
Tonight I will wear to bed the simple black rubber necklace that the Karimojong gave to me as a gift. It will serve as a daily reminder that "...to whom much is given, from him much will be required... Luke 12:48
What I saw today was beyond any description I can put into words. Recho is the coordinator for the Karimojong people. I talked about them in an earlier post but I will repeat in case you didn't read it. The Karimojong are a people group from up north, a place called Karimojo Land. They are cattle herders and very good at what they do. For some reason, there is conflicting information, they migrated to Kampala. It is believed they were forced, but the government here is trying to force them back. They are despised by society and treated horribly. As a result, they live in the most extreme and shocking conditions known to man. I witnessed it today firsthand and I am forever changed. It was as if I had entered into someone's nightmare, but it was real. I was having so much trouble comprehending what I was seeing. They welcomed me so warmly and thanked me over and over and over again...Just for coming. They sang and danced for me and their leaders took turns giving small speeches to greet me. Recho translated. I sat in awe just trying to nod my head and smile. I held their hands as they knelt on the ground in front of me to show respect. I should have been on my knees in front of them. And through it all they sang praises to Jesus and clapped and cheered when I told them that He loved them. I kept revisiting Bible passages in my mind. The treatment of the lepers became real. I was a part of the story. I had just read Luke 10: 30-37 ( if you do not know it off hand, please read it), and suddenly I realized why. And I now really do understand that the ruler of this world is Satan and that he has brought so much destruction and that he wants us to believe that Jesus isn't strong but we know that He who is in us is greater than he who is in the world. 1 John 4:4.
Jesus has the power and authority to do whatever He wills, but what He wills is for his children (you and me) to love one another. And love means you do not let your brothers and sisters in Christ starve to death and die alone in a garbage heap. Matthew 25:34-40 is not hypothetical. James 2:1-9 is not a suggestion. And rich in faith the Karimojong are. Oh, if only my love and faith for our savior could be as deep and authentic as theirs.
I have never had such juxtaposed feelings. Hating what I see and loving what I witness. Wanting to run away as fast as possible and never look back and feeling like I should never leave. Feeling like I was in a bad dream and feeling reality for the first time in my life. Horrible beauty. Satan's evil and God's glory. My heart bled and filled with love at the same time.
It is so overwhelming that it can be tempting to think the problems are just too big, but I have never forgotten the story I was told about the boy walking on the beach one morning where thousands of starfish had been washed ashore. He was picking up one at a time and tossing them back into the ocean when a man came along and asked, "Boy, why do you bother? Do you really think it's going to make a difference." The boy having just released one into the water replied, "it made a difference for that one."
Tonight I will wear to bed the simple black rubber necklace that the Karimojong gave to me as a gift. It will serve as a daily reminder that "...to whom much is given, from him much will be required... Luke 12:48
End of the Day
This is what my feet look like at the end of every day! :)
Sunday, February 2, 2014
Sunday
It is Sunday at 6 pm and I had a wonderfully relaxing day. Mariam and Hilda came this morning to walk me to church. I asked Lydia (our day guard) if I could take Desire with us and she agreed. I loooove Desire! I carried her down the long dusty path to town and we finally arrived at Full Gospel Church. We arrived around 10:30 and waited for the 11:00 service. Praise and worship (can I just say "Wow!"), and then the sermon for the next hour. So it was not 5 hours long like I thought I was told yesterday. Desire slept in my lap most of the time. The service was in English as well as Luganda. They are serious about their worship. They love The Lord so much and it is powerful to worship with them. Awesome. (Give you the details when I get home, Matt. You know how much we appreciate African American worship? Well this was Ugandan style and it was a blessing to experience!)
I carried Desire home on my back, which the older girls found Hilarious for some reason. The dust here is red so whenever you walk anywhere you are covered in red dust when you arrive. Some days I don't know if my face is red from the sun or the dust!
When we returned, we had a meal of fried potatoes, rice and cabbage. It was delicious and probably extra so because I was starving! I was craving a piece of chocolate for after dinner (as I usually do) but we had pineapple. I am finding out that I will live without chocolate every day!!!
Desire and I colored, played and she tried to plait my hair. So funny from a 4 year old. She followed me around all day, saying "Auntie! Auntie!" I tried to teach her colors in English.
Mariam and I had a very interesting talk about government and one's will to succeed in life regardless of the circumstances. She explained that Ugandans are rich in mind but not resources. She is only 15 but one of the wisest people I have ever met.
Tomorrow I go to Karimojong. Prayers are needed. Not necessarily for my safety, but for my clarity of mind and God given wisdom.
Love to you!
Why do you spend money for what is not bread, and your wages for what does not satisfy? Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good, and let your soul delight itself in abundance. Isaiah 55:2
I carried Desire home on my back, which the older girls found Hilarious for some reason. The dust here is red so whenever you walk anywhere you are covered in red dust when you arrive. Some days I don't know if my face is red from the sun or the dust!
When we returned, we had a meal of fried potatoes, rice and cabbage. It was delicious and probably extra so because I was starving! I was craving a piece of chocolate for after dinner (as I usually do) but we had pineapple. I am finding out that I will live without chocolate every day!!!
Desire and I colored, played and she tried to plait my hair. So funny from a 4 year old. She followed me around all day, saying "Auntie! Auntie!" I tried to teach her colors in English.
Mariam and I had a very interesting talk about government and one's will to succeed in life regardless of the circumstances. She explained that Ugandans are rich in mind but not resources. She is only 15 but one of the wisest people I have ever met.
Tomorrow I go to Karimojong. Prayers are needed. Not necessarily for my safety, but for my clarity of mind and God given wisdom.
Love to you!
Why do you spend money for what is not bread, and your wages for what does not satisfy? Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good, and let your soul delight itself in abundance. Isaiah 55:2
Saturday, February 1, 2014
Amina
Kamwokya and Karimojong Visits
It is Saturday at 9:30 pm. I just returned from a very long day from visiting districts on the outside of Kampala. Allen and I left around 8 this morning and headed for Kampala. Our first stop was at the Kamwokya project. The children are in secondary school (high school) so it was a bit different. They gave us a warm welcome and then performed skit after song after poem etc. This went on for about 4 hrs. Everything starts late and lasts forever in Uganda. We were then served a dish of rice, Irish potato, bitter spinach, cabbage and watermelon. I spoke with the students on the importance of working hard in school because they are the future of Uganda. We left around 3 and drove to the Karimojong project. I no sooner stepped out of the car when about 6 children came rushing towards me, throwing their arms around my waist. I don't know that I have ever had anyone so happy to see me. We were led into their classroom where they sang and danced for us. They then were given lessons on praising God, keeping themselves clean, and what it means to be good children. Now pay attention. There were 18 children in the program - all of which were street children. No homes. No parents. These are the Karimojong children. They are despised by society. Their people live in makeshift dwellings if in anything at all. They are the poorest you will find. ECM pulled these children from the streets (no need to ask permission - the women thrust the children at you and beg you to take them). These 18 children are boarded at this facility 24 hours a day with the help of generous sponsors. When some of them arrived 2 years ago, they were animalistic. When I met them today, they were absolutely beautiful. I will post pics.
Monday I will be going to visit the Karimojong women to witness first hand the conditions they are living in. I can't even imagine what I will discover. Just trying to sort through everything I have witnessed already has been so difficult. I imagine that I could not possibly ever be the same.
Tomorrow I am going to church with a girl from our village. We will walk up the long dusty road until we reach The Full Gospel church, which I am told lasts for 5 hours.
Good night my loves!
But whoever has this world's goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him? My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth. 1John 3:17-18
Monday I will be going to visit the Karimojong women to witness first hand the conditions they are living in. I can't even imagine what I will discover. Just trying to sort through everything I have witnessed already has been so difficult. I imagine that I could not possibly ever be the same.
Tomorrow I am going to church with a girl from our village. We will walk up the long dusty road until we reach The Full Gospel church, which I am told lasts for 5 hours.
Good night my loves!
But whoever has this world's goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him? My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth. 1John 3:17-18
Friday, January 31, 2014
Visiting My Girls
It is Friday at 3:30 pm. I was supposed to go to visit the Karimojong today but we had to change out plans. Remember the baby I told you about who was in the hospital with TB? The one whose mama died in the park, which left him orphaned? On Wednesday week had visited potential orphanages for him. He went to be with Jesus this morning. Because he was a Karimomong orphan, Recho had to meet with elders to plan his funeral. Recho is in charge of the Karimojong project and I was supposed to be traveling with her today. So I will go there Monday instead.
On a great note, I got to visit my sponsored daughters at their homes and meet their families. We walked a long and dusty road to get to Kenneth's home first (the child my husband sponsors), but he was not at home. We then took a boda boda, which is a motorbike with a paid driver, to Norah's. Norah's mama and daddy are both deceased due to HIV. So far Norah has tested negative. So she lives with her very elderly jjajja (grandmother). When we arrived, Norah was washing clothes in a bucket. She lives in a brick dwelling, which I was not taken into but determined that it was very very primitive. A straw mat was brought outside for us to sit on while we visited. We brought her a new dress which she will be wearing in the pictures if I can get them to load. I had to use my phone to take pics today because my ipad was dead. No electricity last night - so no charge.
We then took another boda boda out of her village and then got a taxi when we reached town. The taxis here are more like mini vans, and they will squeeze as many people as humanely possible into one. There were 14 passengers in ours. When it dropped us off, we navigated into twists and turns of dusty roads through what I can only describe as a slum area. That is a mild description. Narrow windy paths with dwellings butted up to one another and people everywhere. Chickens in front of the dwellings and garbage and people whispering, "Muzungu" as I passed by. We finally reached Amina's home and we were greeted by her brother who told us Amina was off playing and the mama was a short distance away. So we waited. And I sat while the children ran in amazement to get a better look at me and I said, "Yes, I know, Muzungu." Amina lives in a brick dwelling as well that was just a primitive, but crowded. She lives in what I could compare to back alleys in a city - but way worse. Whereas Amina's home had trees and grass and it was peaceful. Finally Amina arrived and we were able to visit. We also gave her a new dress which is next to nothing in comparison to her needs. When it was time to go she held my hand all the way back to the main road and to the taxi, where we hugged and I told her I loved her. Then another taxi ride back to Kasangati, the village where I stay, But we had to take a boda boda back to the headquarters due to road conditions.
I really can't put into words the emotions I have today. There are none.
More later because I will have free time this evening.
Matthew 10:32-33
On a great note, I got to visit my sponsored daughters at their homes and meet their families. We walked a long and dusty road to get to Kenneth's home first (the child my husband sponsors), but he was not at home. We then took a boda boda, which is a motorbike with a paid driver, to Norah's. Norah's mama and daddy are both deceased due to HIV. So far Norah has tested negative. So she lives with her very elderly jjajja (grandmother). When we arrived, Norah was washing clothes in a bucket. She lives in a brick dwelling, which I was not taken into but determined that it was very very primitive. A straw mat was brought outside for us to sit on while we visited. We brought her a new dress which she will be wearing in the pictures if I can get them to load. I had to use my phone to take pics today because my ipad was dead. No electricity last night - so no charge.
We then took another boda boda out of her village and then got a taxi when we reached town. The taxis here are more like mini vans, and they will squeeze as many people as humanely possible into one. There were 14 passengers in ours. When it dropped us off, we navigated into twists and turns of dusty roads through what I can only describe as a slum area. That is a mild description. Narrow windy paths with dwellings butted up to one another and people everywhere. Chickens in front of the dwellings and garbage and people whispering, "Muzungu" as I passed by. We finally reached Amina's home and we were greeted by her brother who told us Amina was off playing and the mama was a short distance away. So we waited. And I sat while the children ran in amazement to get a better look at me and I said, "Yes, I know, Muzungu." Amina lives in a brick dwelling as well that was just a primitive, but crowded. She lives in what I could compare to back alleys in a city - but way worse. Whereas Amina's home had trees and grass and it was peaceful. Finally Amina arrived and we were able to visit. We also gave her a new dress which is next to nothing in comparison to her needs. When it was time to go she held my hand all the way back to the main road and to the taxi, where we hugged and I told her I loved her. Then another taxi ride back to Kasangati, the village where I stay, But we had to take a boda boda back to the headquarters due to road conditions.
I really can't put into words the emotions I have today. There are none.
More later because I will have free time this evening.
Matthew 10:32-33
Thursday, January 30, 2014
Staff Training Photo
Staff Training
Today (Thursday) I remained at ECM headquarters for their staff training. I was invited to sit in for the opportunity to learn more about the different projects in Uganda, specifically the Kampala area. Those who attended were ECMs director (from the states), eleven Ugandan staff members, and myself. It was very informative as I listened to them problem solve and discuss various topics. The staff in Uganda works very hard to help better the lives of the children here. Because I was a guest at their meeting I will not discuss any issues in detail.
We had chapati and bananas for lunch. Chapati is like fry bread and it is made by the villagers but you can get it many places. Yesterday I had a samosa, which is kind of like a flaky, fried triangle of bread stuffed with either meat or veggies. Mine had peas. Meals here are few and small but I bought a few boxes of water, a box of Rice Krispies, and I brought some protein bars so I'm all set. :)
Yesterday there were some female prisoners walking outside of the village with their guard and Resty recognized one woman from her church. She was arrested because she owns a shop and a teenage boy stole from her and instead of going to his parents or guardians, she caned him herself. That is now illegal in Uganda so she was arrested and put in jail for the next 3 years. The jail is a small brick dwelling with barred windows. I can't even begin to imagine. Resty was very shook up when she found out. You know the saying, "It takes a village to raise a child?" Well, since the beginning of time, that was true here...until now.
Tomorrow I will be heading back to Kampala to visit with the Karimojong people. They are the poorest of the poor and rejected by society. Their homeland is about 8 hours away in karamoja land in the north. There is some confusion as to why they migrate south because the government says they want to but the conditions they live in suggest otherwise. It can take days to walk or they will travel by crouching under bus seats or holding onto the bottom of vehicles. I will learn much more tomorrow. It will be a long, hard day and I will need prayer.
It is so hard to remember everything I want to share on a daily basis and believe me, my words do not suffice. I miss my family but I am hanging in there with the help of my savior. I finally got to hear Ryan's voice this morning. I was able to purchase a cheap international phone and Kabule helped me figure it out. It was finally charged this morning but it was midnight your time but I had to call him anyway. He answered and I had to fight the tears of joy. We are never apart and that is the hardest part. He assured me that Maggie is doing great and I just know that her peace comes from God. I will call her soon, but I have to say I'm a little afraid of hearing her voice. It might send me over the edge. I have heard from Brittany through texts and am so blessed by her love for me. I love her so much. Again, please keep commenting on my blog (I hate that word too, Ginger. What is that all about?). Hearing from you strengthens me on this journey. Please, anyone, even folks I don't know, talk to me! I'm assuming that those I have not heard from is because you can't post it. Technology issues. Ryan said, "I wrote you so many things and it all erased." :(. I will say that there are a couple comments that show up in my menu and I was able to read them, but they do not show on the main blog so keep trying! No such thing as a blog hog with me Matt. I want to hear from you!!'
In conclusion, I have some distressful news about Rodney. He showed up again last night so I captured him in a plastic container. I just thought of it as his pet kennel. I was going to put him outside in the morning to run around for exercise knowing that he could have run away. But you know what they say, " if you love something - set it free....? Well I was willing to take that chance BUT, when I went to check on him this morning he was gone. His container (kennel) was put back and it was empty. I tried asking the staff where he was and they seemed confused as to why I cared and as to whether or not they should tell me. They had to wonder why I put him in a container in the first place. So I kept saying, "no, I don't want him back. I was just wondering where he was. Not that I care because I don't because it really doesn't matter." But I don't think they believed me.
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
We had chapati and bananas for lunch. Chapati is like fry bread and it is made by the villagers but you can get it many places. Yesterday I had a samosa, which is kind of like a flaky, fried triangle of bread stuffed with either meat or veggies. Mine had peas. Meals here are few and small but I bought a few boxes of water, a box of Rice Krispies, and I brought some protein bars so I'm all set. :)
Yesterday there were some female prisoners walking outside of the village with their guard and Resty recognized one woman from her church. She was arrested because she owns a shop and a teenage boy stole from her and instead of going to his parents or guardians, she caned him herself. That is now illegal in Uganda so she was arrested and put in jail for the next 3 years. The jail is a small brick dwelling with barred windows. I can't even begin to imagine. Resty was very shook up when she found out. You know the saying, "It takes a village to raise a child?" Well, since the beginning of time, that was true here...until now.
Tomorrow I will be heading back to Kampala to visit with the Karimojong people. They are the poorest of the poor and rejected by society. Their homeland is about 8 hours away in karamoja land in the north. There is some confusion as to why they migrate south because the government says they want to but the conditions they live in suggest otherwise. It can take days to walk or they will travel by crouching under bus seats or holding onto the bottom of vehicles. I will learn much more tomorrow. It will be a long, hard day and I will need prayer.
It is so hard to remember everything I want to share on a daily basis and believe me, my words do not suffice. I miss my family but I am hanging in there with the help of my savior. I finally got to hear Ryan's voice this morning. I was able to purchase a cheap international phone and Kabule helped me figure it out. It was finally charged this morning but it was midnight your time but I had to call him anyway. He answered and I had to fight the tears of joy. We are never apart and that is the hardest part. He assured me that Maggie is doing great and I just know that her peace comes from God. I will call her soon, but I have to say I'm a little afraid of hearing her voice. It might send me over the edge. I have heard from Brittany through texts and am so blessed by her love for me. I love her so much. Again, please keep commenting on my blog (I hate that word too, Ginger. What is that all about?). Hearing from you strengthens me on this journey. Please, anyone, even folks I don't know, talk to me! I'm assuming that those I have not heard from is because you can't post it. Technology issues. Ryan said, "I wrote you so many things and it all erased." :(. I will say that there are a couple comments that show up in my menu and I was able to read them, but they do not show on the main blog so keep trying! No such thing as a blog hog with me Matt. I want to hear from you!!'
In conclusion, I have some distressful news about Rodney. He showed up again last night so I captured him in a plastic container. I just thought of it as his pet kennel. I was going to put him outside in the morning to run around for exercise knowing that he could have run away. But you know what they say, " if you love something - set it free....? Well I was willing to take that chance BUT, when I went to check on him this morning he was gone. His container (kennel) was put back and it was empty. I tried asking the staff where he was and they seemed confused as to why I cared and as to whether or not they should tell me. They had to wonder why I put him in a container in the first place. So I kept saying, "no, I don't want him back. I was just wondering where he was. Not that I care because I don't because it really doesn't matter." But I don't think they believed me.
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Wednesday, January 29, 2014
Friends
Visiting the Orphanages
Today Resty, Recho, and Merab drove to Kampala to visit 2 orphanages. We were trying to evaluate the situations at both because there is a 15 month old baby whose mama died on Christmas Day. She was found laying in a park with her children around her. Someone called the police, but she was dead. There is no family to take the baby and the father is mostly absent. The baby has TB and is being treated for it in a local hospital but they want to release him to a guardian. ECM does not take children until they are old enough to attend school. So we went to the orphanages to check them out. (It is very hard to adopt a child here if there is a known living relative.) The first one was at capacity but said they would consider taking the baby with a health clearance and permission from the father. A death certificate also has to be presented for the file. The children were not there because they were on holiday. Each staff worker takes 2-3 children to their own homes during this time just to allow them a different environment besides the orphanage. I thought that was awesome.
The second one we went to was Sanyu Babies Home. It is the first and oldest Babies home in Uganda and was founded in 1929. It is a Christian organization and they care for up to 50 babies and toddlers between 1day old and 4 years. These children are all actual orphans having been found in the streets, garbage dumps, or just found by someone all alone. I fell absolutely in love with these children. As the lady was giving us a tour, I reached into a crib a pulled a baby into my arms and carried him throughout the rest of the facility. He was the most beautiful precious baby boy. He had just been circumcised, so I was carrying him around with a towel wrapped around his bottom. His tried to hold on tight to my neck and just snuggled up into my arm. They needed to take us somewhere else so I had to put him down and he cried so I stayed with him until he stopped. We visited with the toddlers and played with them for a while but I snuck away and went back to my boy. I held on to him until the visiting time was over. He cried and looked so sad when I placed him in his little bed and I kissed him and whispered, "This should never have to happen to a baby." And I meant it. I wish I could love on every sad or lonely child that exists on this planet. I wish I could rock them and sing to them until they were no longer afraid. I would if I could.
Good night my family and friends. Those of you that can, tuck your children in tonight. I wish I could.
For the word of The Lord is right, and all His work is done in truth. He loves righteousness and justice; The earth is full of the goodness of The Lord. Psalm 33:4-5
The second one we went to was Sanyu Babies Home. It is the first and oldest Babies home in Uganda and was founded in 1929. It is a Christian organization and they care for up to 50 babies and toddlers between 1day old and 4 years. These children are all actual orphans having been found in the streets, garbage dumps, or just found by someone all alone. I fell absolutely in love with these children. As the lady was giving us a tour, I reached into a crib a pulled a baby into my arms and carried him throughout the rest of the facility. He was the most beautiful precious baby boy. He had just been circumcised, so I was carrying him around with a towel wrapped around his bottom. His tried to hold on tight to my neck and just snuggled up into my arm. They needed to take us somewhere else so I had to put him down and he cried so I stayed with him until he stopped. We visited with the toddlers and played with them for a while but I snuck away and went back to my boy. I held on to him until the visiting time was over. He cried and looked so sad when I placed him in his little bed and I kissed him and whispered, "This should never have to happen to a baby." And I meant it. I wish I could love on every sad or lonely child that exists on this planet. I wish I could rock them and sing to them until they were no longer afraid. I would if I could.
Good night my family and friends. Those of you that can, tuck your children in tonight. I wish I could.
For the word of The Lord is right, and all His work is done in truth. He loves righteousness and justice; The earth is full of the goodness of The Lord. Psalm 33:4-5
Tuesday, January 28, 2014
Random thoughts
It is 7 in the morning and I slept! Thank you Jesus. I fell asleep at ten and woke at eleven and read til one and finally fell asleep. I needed it. There is constant music coming from the village. Drums and sometimes singing off in the distance and it went on until after midnight last night. As I was laying here reading under a book light last night, I saw something out of the corner of my eye on the wall next to my bed. My bed is pushed against the wall and the something was inches from my arm. Using my light, I flashed it on the wall and it was the biggest cockroach I have ever seen. Maybe the length of my pointer finger. It was shocking. It was not normal and it was quite horrifying. So I tried to look at the bright side and because I miss my dogs so much, it is now my little brown, albeit not as furry (and for this I'm grateful) pet. Or considering its size, roommate. And yes, I realize that he (I will call him Rodney) probably has many many many many friends but I am fine with the fact that he came alone to welcome me last night.
I can text, but it costs so those are limited. I cannot call out at this point and Ryan and I were unsuccessful at using skype. It may be my poor service. That has been the hardest part. Not hearing their voices or seeing their faces. He and Brittany relayed to me that they have repeatedly tried to comment on my blog and it refuses to post. So Matt, Eddie, Beth, Karen, ginger, and Sheri...your all I've got right now. Please stay in touch. I am so comforted by reading your words...you cannot even imagine. I am going to Kampala today so I am going to work on getting an unlocked phone to use internationally. At least then I can call Ryan.
Karen and Beth, thank you for continuing to check on Ryan and Maggie for me. Love you guys. Stop worrying about me Karen. I know how much you love me but I am not alone. I am with Jesus at all times. These glitches in communication are just one more way for me to have to rely on His strength and comfort.
Ginger, your comments make me feel like I am at home and we are chatting on the phone. Your humor keeps me going. I love you!
Today I will be visiting two different orphanages around Kampala. I have been asked by ECM to evaluate the situations at both as there is a child who needs assistance immediately. This is going to be a sad day. I will post the details later.
One more thing. I will do my best to use correct grammar, spelling and punctuation ( it's this never ending pressure teachers have) but sometimes it just ain't gonna happen. :)
The village wakes at dawn. I can hear the children outside. Time to get ready for the day.
Show me Your ways, O Lord; teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me. For You are The God of my salvation; On You I wait all the day. Psalm 25:4-5
I can text, but it costs so those are limited. I cannot call out at this point and Ryan and I were unsuccessful at using skype. It may be my poor service. That has been the hardest part. Not hearing their voices or seeing their faces. He and Brittany relayed to me that they have repeatedly tried to comment on my blog and it refuses to post. So Matt, Eddie, Beth, Karen, ginger, and Sheri...your all I've got right now. Please stay in touch. I am so comforted by reading your words...you cannot even imagine. I am going to Kampala today so I am going to work on getting an unlocked phone to use internationally. At least then I can call Ryan.
Karen and Beth, thank you for continuing to check on Ryan and Maggie for me. Love you guys. Stop worrying about me Karen. I know how much you love me but I am not alone. I am with Jesus at all times. These glitches in communication are just one more way for me to have to rely on His strength and comfort.
Ginger, your comments make me feel like I am at home and we are chatting on the phone. Your humor keeps me going. I love you!
Today I will be visiting two different orphanages around Kampala. I have been asked by ECM to evaluate the situations at both as there is a child who needs assistance immediately. This is going to be a sad day. I will post the details later.
One more thing. I will do my best to use correct grammar, spelling and punctuation ( it's this never ending pressure teachers have) but sometimes it just ain't gonna happen. :)
The village wakes at dawn. I can hear the children outside. Time to get ready for the day.
Show me Your ways, O Lord; teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me. For You are The God of my salvation; On You I wait all the day. Psalm 25:4-5
Fun day with the kids
It is 4:30 pm my time and 8:30 am yours on Tuesday. I have had a long and fun day. About 30 of the sponsored children came today so we could have Bible class and celebrate. The kids sang and danced for hours. (Got the video for you Renee:) ). Then we walked,to Kasangati field to play netball ( basketball) and soccer. The children all get along so well and they are so kind. They all wanted to hold my hands as we walked. I am learning quite a bit of Luganda but I have a ways to go. It is a very difficult language to speak. Here are some examples: Hi....Ki Kati (pronounced chee katee)
How are you?...Oli otya. My name is Terra.....Erinnya. Lyange nza Terra. (Although the children call me Auntie Terra.).
Our lunch was prepared over a fire in the yard and it consisted of rice, beans, cabbage and chopped veggies. And yes, they know that I do not eat meat because "it makes me sick." They can't hide how strange they think this is so I act like I feel like it is a very strange shame as well.
I can't tell you how often I forget that I am the only white person in the village. It isn't until I hear shouts of, "Muzungu!" from very young children, that I remember.
The one picture of me and the 3 children is our sponsored children Kenneth, Norah, and Amina. It was the first day we met. They were so shy and now they hardly leave my side!
So tired.... Couldn't fall asleep last night and only slept about an hour or two. More later.
Love to you all! Also, I love reading your comments. They keep me from getting too homesick. Thank you.
Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Psalm 90:12
How are you?...Oli otya. My name is Terra.....Erinnya. Lyange nza Terra. (Although the children call me Auntie Terra.).
Our lunch was prepared over a fire in the yard and it consisted of rice, beans, cabbage and chopped veggies. And yes, they know that I do not eat meat because "it makes me sick." They can't hide how strange they think this is so I act like I feel like it is a very strange shame as well.
I can't tell you how often I forget that I am the only white person in the village. It isn't until I hear shouts of, "Muzungu!" from very young children, that I remember.
The one picture of me and the 3 children is our sponsored children Kenneth, Norah, and Amina. It was the first day we met. They were so shy and now they hardly leave my side!
So tired.... Couldn't fall asleep last night and only slept about an hour or two. More later.
Love to you all! Also, I love reading your comments. They keep me from getting too homesick. Thank you.
Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Psalm 90:12
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