Safarrrrriiiiii
We were told that the drive would take 5-7 hours. The whole process including checking into Red Chilli and getting to our rooms took about 8 hours. Before we even entered the park, our safari driver, Rashid, stopped to show us a chameleon and a python! There were two men walking along the roadside carrying a python they had killed in the field. It is illegal to kill them, but Rashid said it was self defense. Pythons are known to eat human babies and goats. Yikes! The locals were just as interested in seeing it as we were. One man walked up, pointed, and said, "Abomination!" Rashid jumped out of the van and ran over to take pictures. He asked if we were too scared to join him. I think some were, and some were merely lazy.
We took the last ferry across the Nile to the savanna grasslands on the other side. Red Chilli is on the rain forest side of the Nile. It was raining AGAIN when we left and were afraid that the safari drivers wouldn't allow us to pop the tops of the vehicles. Luckily for us, it wasn't raining on the other side and we had the best of views, standing on the seats in the van and sitting on top of the roof in the SUV. We saw giraffes, elephants, waterbuck, African kob (the national emblem???), warthogs, aka Pumbas, Jackson heartabeast (previously renamed the hortelope), oribi, hippopotamuses, jackal, cape buffalo, and lots of birds, including the national bird, the African crane. We had the unfortunate experience of seeing a three-legged giraffe. It was so sad! He/She had been caught in a poacher's snare. Those stupid poachers! This giraffe has compensated very well and was moving fairly well, but a bit slowly.
You may be wondering what the title, Catfish Unite, has to do with our safari. At Red Chilli restcamp, we were grouped in 2s or 3s and given bandas. These bandas were nicer than the ones we stayed in last trip, which were already pretty nice. The bandas are cement huts with a couple of beds and a fan, but this time we also got a bathroom in each banda with hot water!!! Nice. Each banda was given an animal name. Michaela, Kelsey, and Laura were in Catfish. After a while, we decided we needed some sort of hand signal or team cheer. So we began to say, "Catfish, unite!" as we headed to dinner or off to bed, etc. We quickly added the hand motion of giving ourselves whiskers on the word unite. Some of the group members who had to share beds had the pleasure of figuring out how to also share a mosquito net. There was lots of laughter to be heard. Until early in the morning, when the only sounds to be heard were the hippo grazing around our bandas and Greg snoring.
The following day, we woke up before the sun to be first in line for the first ferry across the river. We saw lots more of the same animals and added a hyena and a brown snake eagle to this list. We switched up the vehicles a bit to give Michaela a chance to ride on top. This is the best place to sit while on safari. You can see everything all around you, unobstructed. While the 3 "young ones" and Dorothy rode in the SUV, we decided to come up with a ranking system for our photos. If you get the most amazing shot, you call it a money shot. One step down from money is solid. That's pretty much as far as we went with it other than naming the bottom of the totem pole, the Marvin. Marvin somehow ended up with a lot of plant and miscellaneous pictures. But really, Marvin is such a good sport, on the giving and receiving end of lots of teasing. Even though we searched far and wide, we were not successful in finding lions or leopards. The guides did tell us that two lion cubs got in a fight with a cape buffalo and both cubs died :(. We can only assume that all of the lions were in hiding, grieving. And apparently the leopards refuse to show themselves, even though there are something like 1800 of them in the park. We were sad that Donna wasn't able to join us for Wednesday's activities, due to feeling ill. We are glad she got to see most of the animals on Tuesday night drive.
After the morning drive and then lunch, we took a river cruise up to Murchison Falls and back. A three hour tour. (Please insert Gilligan's island theme here.) On this journey, we saw lots of hippos and a couple of crocodiles. There were more birds and previously seen animals, grazing, bathing, and pooping alongside of the river. Kelsey somehow didn't bring sunscreen to the equator, so her legs are pretty much fried. She also has some other interesting burn/tan lines. The cruise was nice and relaxing. We spent our last real evening (the true last evening will be in transit) enjoying dinner together. We played a couple of card games. A group of us (Kelsey, Greg, Sue, Deb, Marvin, Laura, Michaela) stayed up and closed down the restaurant, playing a game called Golf. In this version, you hold one card on your forehead so that everyone else can see your card but you. You get one opportunity to switch cards and whomever has the lowest card, is out that round. Last one standing, wins. Most of the time, this was Sue. The Ugandans were quite fascinated with the foolish Americans and couldn't grasp the concept of putting cards on your forehead. One of our drivers, Emmanuel, sat for a couple of rounds, trying to figure it out. Every time Emmanuel was near, Kelsey started to sing O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.
We started the day with a nice breakfast at Red Chilli and then cranked out our long drive home, obeying only the important traffic laws/suggestions. It has been nice to have a chance to shower and pack well before rushing off to the airport tonight. On arrival at the Stevenson's, we were greeted with a good report of Colleen's surgery. The doctors even used the word amazing.
Thank you all for reading our blog, praying for us, and supporting this trip. We are full of mixed emotions, sad to leave our dear friends here in Uganda, and excited to see our friends and family at home. We are hopeful that there will still be many trips to Uganda to come in Park Place's future.
See you on the flippity-flop.
Signing off,
Kelsey, Laura, & Michaela
Thursday, June 12, 2014
Monday, June 9, 2014
Shop 'Til You Drop...or slip and fall in the mud.
Today was quite a rainy day, which we weren't so thrilled about, because it was a day dedicated to shopping! The Ugandans were really grateful for the steady pour of rain, and we still got to go shopping in our ponchos, so everything turned out all right. The market was one big mud pit, but Deb still managed to run around and snatch up all the best earrings. The store owners may have had tarps over their front doors, but they still managed to always know when a visitor was standing near the shop. They often told us that we were the first visitors of the day in their stores and that we were also getting the "friend discount". The newbies (and some of the oldies) made the rookie mistake of purchasing the first item they saw, without perusing other shops for the best colors and patterns. Overall, we had a successful trip, even though some of our bartering skills may not be the most polished.
When we returned home, we had another lunch and afternoon full of bonding and fellowship with each other and the staff in the compound. Laura taught Philip, Moses and Sande the song "Rain, Rain, Go Away", and they greatly enjoyed this new tune. We also gave all of the men who work in the compound large gift bags full of all kinds of goodies for themselves and their families. They loved them so much, that even Philip took his, hung it around his neck, and frolicked off to hide his bag. We are so grateful to all of them for who they are and everything they do for our team.
Another trip was made complete today with the first time visit of a sponsor child. Pastor Dave has been sponsoring Ivan for approximately 6-8 years and finally got to meet him. Ivan and his pastor travelled on an overnight bus for many hours just to come to the compound to visit with Pastor Dave. Luckily, the kitchen girls had just made some freshly baked chocolate chip cookies, which Ivan loved! His other favorite gift was a soccer ball, amongst his big bag of goodies. He is in the fourth grade and his favorite school subject is math, so Pastor Dave says he and Peggy will be sending materials in support of that love of math. Pastor Dave also says that Ivan has a winning smile :)
It is such a great blessing to be able to travel around the world to another culture. Even though we may not always understand the words spoken to each other, there is still an understanding since we serve the same God. With our songs, we speak a language of worship. We spent a good portion of the evening in a storage container in the front yard of the compound, praising and worshipping with several of our Ugandan brothers and sisters -- old songs, new songs, multiple languages, but all sung with a heart of praise. All of this began with an unplanned purchase of an adungu, a musical instrument resembling a guitar and harp combination. Deb made this purchase and later found out that Philip knew how to play it. Philip said he hadn't played since he lived in the village, maybe around 14 years ago. He had to dig through his things to find his own adungu that he made himself. Praise the Lord for simple reminders like this of how great a God we ALL serve.
Bright and early tomorrow, we will be leaving Kampala for our Safari! Although we are very excited to experience God's creation in this way, it has been hard saying goodbye to many of the great people we have met and served alongside these past couple weeks. When we return from the safari, we will hopefully have enough time to pack and shower, before we head off to the airport for our return to the States. We will try to blog before departing, but after all, this is Africa, and schedules are merely for guidance. Our estimated time of return from safari is questionable.
Once again, we cannot express how grateful we are to the Stevenson family. They are truly living their lives for the Lord and are a wonderful example to all. We continue to pray for the family, especially Colleen, as she undergoes surgery tomorrow.
Hakuna Matata,
Kelsey and Laura
When we returned home, we had another lunch and afternoon full of bonding and fellowship with each other and the staff in the compound. Laura taught Philip, Moses and Sande the song "Rain, Rain, Go Away", and they greatly enjoyed this new tune. We also gave all of the men who work in the compound large gift bags full of all kinds of goodies for themselves and their families. They loved them so much, that even Philip took his, hung it around his neck, and frolicked off to hide his bag. We are so grateful to all of them for who they are and everything they do for our team.
Another trip was made complete today with the first time visit of a sponsor child. Pastor Dave has been sponsoring Ivan for approximately 6-8 years and finally got to meet him. Ivan and his pastor travelled on an overnight bus for many hours just to come to the compound to visit with Pastor Dave. Luckily, the kitchen girls had just made some freshly baked chocolate chip cookies, which Ivan loved! His other favorite gift was a soccer ball, amongst his big bag of goodies. He is in the fourth grade and his favorite school subject is math, so Pastor Dave says he and Peggy will be sending materials in support of that love of math. Pastor Dave also says that Ivan has a winning smile :)
It is such a great blessing to be able to travel around the world to another culture. Even though we may not always understand the words spoken to each other, there is still an understanding since we serve the same God. With our songs, we speak a language of worship. We spent a good portion of the evening in a storage container in the front yard of the compound, praising and worshipping with several of our Ugandan brothers and sisters -- old songs, new songs, multiple languages, but all sung with a heart of praise. All of this began with an unplanned purchase of an adungu, a musical instrument resembling a guitar and harp combination. Deb made this purchase and later found out that Philip knew how to play it. Philip said he hadn't played since he lived in the village, maybe around 14 years ago. He had to dig through his things to find his own adungu that he made himself. Praise the Lord for simple reminders like this of how great a God we ALL serve.
Bright and early tomorrow, we will be leaving Kampala for our Safari! Although we are very excited to experience God's creation in this way, it has been hard saying goodbye to many of the great people we have met and served alongside these past couple weeks. When we return from the safari, we will hopefully have enough time to pack and shower, before we head off to the airport for our return to the States. We will try to blog before departing, but after all, this is Africa, and schedules are merely for guidance. Our estimated time of return from safari is questionable.
Once again, we cannot express how grateful we are to the Stevenson family. They are truly living their lives for the Lord and are a wonderful example to all. We continue to pray for the family, especially Colleen, as she undergoes surgery tomorrow.
Hakuna Matata,
Kelsey and Laura
Sunday, June 8, 2014
Three Weddings and a Discotec
The drive to the village of Ssembabule was uneventful, except for Tim telling us it would be one hour to Masaka and it was more like 3-4 hours. Typical African time. We arrived at our lodging, The Rainbow Motel. We basically took up the entire hotel. Each room contained one or two beds and a little bedside table. Some got a roll of toilet paper, some got soap, some got mosquito netting...others did not. We did not find the sink until it was time to leave, so that wasn't very helpful. Sue and Michaela must have had the honeymoon suite, with had a "bathroom" in their room, so they got lots of visits from the rest of the group. After a brief rest at the hotel, we left for the opening of the Peace House for Jja Jja Brenda. The drive from the hotel to the village wasn't too long, but the road from the main part of the village became very narrow and bumpy. The Children of the Corn was referenced, not because it was a particularly creepy drive, but because there were literally a hundred children running through the corn alongside of the van, shouting and waving at the Muzungus. The celebration took place by light of the moon and headlights. No one got her exact age, but she had never slept in a bed her whole life, until last night. We're guessing she is around 70ish. For the last three years, her mud house has been collapsing, so she had to live with a neighbor.
God moves in ways we don't even know. We were originally supposed to open the Jja Jja house on Sunday morning, but we ended up doing it on Saturday night in order to get back to Kampala on time Sunday evening. Because of this switch, we were able to see the Jja Jja after she had spent her first night in her new home. Often we get to see the previous house, but we were not able to this time because it had been washed away. As she was going through the bag of gifts and the cross to hang in her home, she was overcome with gratitude. All of the Jja Jjas have such joy and love for us. This was a moving experience for all of us, but for Sue even more so. Sue and the Jja Jja seemed to have a special connection. :)
Another brief but powerful testament to the power of God's love comes from the Jja Jja dedication ceremony. (As Kelsey sits here typing, tears are already welling up in her eyes.) The surrounding area of dirt around the house was very thick, watery mud. Since it was so dark outside, it was difficult to see and avoid the mud. Kelsey stepped down from the porch avoiding the mud, but right behind her Greg stepped down directly into the mud and it splashed and covered her feet and legs. As she stood there uncertain of what to do next, a Ugandan gentleman saw what had happened and immediately, got down to his knees and began scrubbing her feet with his handkerchief. She tried to get him to stand up and not to worry about, but he was relentless. She stood there in complete awe of the love and service of this man to a woman who was a complete stranger. In that moment, she stood there with tears steaming down her face feeling completely humbled and loved as a Child of God. As the gentleman rose to his feet, she had no words. All she had was a grateful embrace, hoping to express to the man that he was the hands of Jesus.
In the morning, we went back to the village for church. Park Place congregation should be prepared for our return because Pastor Dave has mastered the art of a 12 minute service. At least that is how much time passed on the clock that was hanging in the sanctuary. He is quite the spiritual superhero as he was able to complete all of the following within that 12 minutes: a sermon, baby/child dedication of 14, 3 weddings, and communion. You may be wondering about the discotec referenced in the title. Any who are tempted to complain about the drums and guitar at our church, may want to reconsider. It could be replaced with a squealing sound system and synthesizer. We joke, but we also understand that this congregation was providing the best they had available to worship God and welcome us. We were very honored to share in worship with them this morning. After the service, we gifted 8 goats and 1 pig that is prego with piglets. The experience was referenced as being a peaceful chaos. And in all actuality, the service was more like 2 and half to 3 hours long. The Director's Liaison, Logan, informed us that we were part of Uganda's history, participating in the shortest church service to ever happen. We at a quick lunch at the Rainbow Hotel and rushed home to see Tim off. Sande and Moses required Logan to drive between their two cars, creating a Logan sandwich anytime we drove anywhere. It turned out to be a good thing since he was having car trouble on the way back.
It may have already been mentioned, but we really can't say enough how fortunate we are to have Moses and Sande with us all the time. The road rules here are merely suggestions and travel with anyone else behind the wheel would be terrifying. Our team never has to worry about anything. Whatever need comes up: if we need to use the bathroom, know what someone is saying, know where to go or what to do in any situation, or if we ever feel threatened - often we don't even need to ask because they have already taken care of us. For example, today in church, the speaker was BLARING towards us, so Sande got up and turned the speaker around to face the opposite direction. Today at lunch, food was being prepared rather slowly at the hotel so Moses took charge in the kitchen, prepping and delivering our food to us. So if anyone at home is worried about us, there is no need! We are in the best human hands possible!
We look forward to a relaxing evening together.
P.S. Sandra arrived safely 5 days ago and we put her to work immediately.
--Laura and Kelsey
God moves in ways we don't even know. We were originally supposed to open the Jja Jja house on Sunday morning, but we ended up doing it on Saturday night in order to get back to Kampala on time Sunday evening. Because of this switch, we were able to see the Jja Jja after she had spent her first night in her new home. Often we get to see the previous house, but we were not able to this time because it had been washed away. As she was going through the bag of gifts and the cross to hang in her home, she was overcome with gratitude. All of the Jja Jjas have such joy and love for us. This was a moving experience for all of us, but for Sue even more so. Sue and the Jja Jja seemed to have a special connection. :)
Another brief but powerful testament to the power of God's love comes from the Jja Jja dedication ceremony. (As Kelsey sits here typing, tears are already welling up in her eyes.) The surrounding area of dirt around the house was very thick, watery mud. Since it was so dark outside, it was difficult to see and avoid the mud. Kelsey stepped down from the porch avoiding the mud, but right behind her Greg stepped down directly into the mud and it splashed and covered her feet and legs. As she stood there uncertain of what to do next, a Ugandan gentleman saw what had happened and immediately, got down to his knees and began scrubbing her feet with his handkerchief. She tried to get him to stand up and not to worry about, but he was relentless. She stood there in complete awe of the love and service of this man to a woman who was a complete stranger. In that moment, she stood there with tears steaming down her face feeling completely humbled and loved as a Child of God. As the gentleman rose to his feet, she had no words. All she had was a grateful embrace, hoping to express to the man that he was the hands of Jesus.
In the morning, we went back to the village for church. Park Place congregation should be prepared for our return because Pastor Dave has mastered the art of a 12 minute service. At least that is how much time passed on the clock that was hanging in the sanctuary. He is quite the spiritual superhero as he was able to complete all of the following within that 12 minutes: a sermon, baby/child dedication of 14, 3 weddings, and communion. You may be wondering about the discotec referenced in the title. Any who are tempted to complain about the drums and guitar at our church, may want to reconsider. It could be replaced with a squealing sound system and synthesizer. We joke, but we also understand that this congregation was providing the best they had available to worship God and welcome us. We were very honored to share in worship with them this morning. After the service, we gifted 8 goats and 1 pig that is prego with piglets. The experience was referenced as being a peaceful chaos. And in all actuality, the service was more like 2 and half to 3 hours long. The Director's Liaison, Logan, informed us that we were part of Uganda's history, participating in the shortest church service to ever happen. We at a quick lunch at the Rainbow Hotel and rushed home to see Tim off. Sande and Moses required Logan to drive between their two cars, creating a Logan sandwich anytime we drove anywhere. It turned out to be a good thing since he was having car trouble on the way back.
It may have already been mentioned, but we really can't say enough how fortunate we are to have Moses and Sande with us all the time. The road rules here are merely suggestions and travel with anyone else behind the wheel would be terrifying. Our team never has to worry about anything. Whatever need comes up: if we need to use the bathroom, know what someone is saying, know where to go or what to do in any situation, or if we ever feel threatened - often we don't even need to ask because they have already taken care of us. For example, today in church, the speaker was BLARING towards us, so Sande got up and turned the speaker around to face the opposite direction. Today at lunch, food was being prepared rather slowly at the hotel so Moses took charge in the kitchen, prepping and delivering our food to us. So if anyone at home is worried about us, there is no need! We are in the best human hands possible!
We look forward to a relaxing evening together.
P.S. Sandra arrived safely 5 days ago and we put her to work immediately.
--Laura and Kelsey
Friday, June 6, 2014
Fender Bender & Flying Watermelon Seeds
Today was a low key day. We are again exercising our skills in flexibility. Colleen's surgery has been scheduled, so Tim will be leaving soon to be in Canada with her. Logan will now be the Director's Liaison here in Uganda. The 3 interns along with the house staff will be holding down the fort and keeping things running for a little while. We rejoice in the good health reports so far and continue to be prayerful and hopeful for a successful surgery.
Our trip to the village was postponed one day while Tim sorted out his travel details and has been preparing to be away. So for today, we did a little bit of touring and shopping. We started with a nice little jaunt to Merchison Bay School in Bukasa. The headmistress showed us around the compound and the students welcomed us with an endearing musical performance. The next stop was Heritage International School. Tim and Colleen started this school many years ago, and the school has grown considerably over the years. Enrollment is now up to 340 students, including grandchildren of President Musevini and the Prime Minister, as well as children/grandchildren of other dignitaries. Many of the teachers come from all different countries, backgrounds, and ethnicities. All Stevenson family members have been involved in the planning and building of a chapel at Heritage in memory of Tim's father. The building progress has come a long way since we were here two years ago but also has a long way to go. The school recently purchased additional acreage for sports ministry expansion.
After a nice and relaxed lunch at the house, we spent plenty of money at the Banana Boat, a nice souvenir shop in the mall. We all look forward to sharing our mementos and gifts. Moses bought a microphone, but refused to sing karaoke when asked. The microphone was not from the Banana Boat and it was for his church. We hope you like your gifts because all purchases are final. For dinner we went to a fancy Chinese restaurant and celebrated Tim's birthday tomorrow. It did seem at times like an awkward family photo come to life. Tim and Logan were the mature ones, fighting with their chopsticks. The food was delicious. Thank you, Tim, for picking up the check at your own party.
We continue to find bonding experiences with each other. It has been a pleasure to have three additional team members: interns Colleen, Madison, and Anna. We look forward to more relationship building in the village tomorrow and Sunday.
Nighty night.
Kelsey and Laura
Our trip to the village was postponed one day while Tim sorted out his travel details and has been preparing to be away. So for today, we did a little bit of touring and shopping. We started with a nice little jaunt to Merchison Bay School in Bukasa. The headmistress showed us around the compound and the students welcomed us with an endearing musical performance. The next stop was Heritage International School. Tim and Colleen started this school many years ago, and the school has grown considerably over the years. Enrollment is now up to 340 students, including grandchildren of President Musevini and the Prime Minister, as well as children/grandchildren of other dignitaries. Many of the teachers come from all different countries, backgrounds, and ethnicities. All Stevenson family members have been involved in the planning and building of a chapel at Heritage in memory of Tim's father. The building progress has come a long way since we were here two years ago but also has a long way to go. The school recently purchased additional acreage for sports ministry expansion.
After a nice and relaxed lunch at the house, we spent plenty of money at the Banana Boat, a nice souvenir shop in the mall. We all look forward to sharing our mementos and gifts. Moses bought a microphone, but refused to sing karaoke when asked. The microphone was not from the Banana Boat and it was for his church. We hope you like your gifts because all purchases are final. For dinner we went to a fancy Chinese restaurant and celebrated Tim's birthday tomorrow. It did seem at times like an awkward family photo come to life. Tim and Logan were the mature ones, fighting with their chopsticks. The food was delicious. Thank you, Tim, for picking up the check at your own party.
We continue to find bonding experiences with each other. It has been a pleasure to have three additional team members: interns Colleen, Madison, and Anna. We look forward to more relationship building in the village tomorrow and Sunday.
Nighty night.
Kelsey and Laura
Thursday, June 5, 2014
Dudu & Nfufu (the N is silent)
Did you have a nice day? "Yes, please." This a common response to any question. Some other common phrases we hear: "Bye Muzungu!" (muzungu is a white person), Wanji (response when somebody calls your name), Kale (pronounced kah-ley and means yes, as an affirmative), "It's no problem," and Webele (thank you).
The last two days were spent at Kasubi continuing the variety show that started on Tuesday. Marvin taught a computer class on Wednesday, and today he spent the day on TAPP visits and also visited for a few hours with a student who was working with him during his workshop. Marvin's workshop went so well, he is already in bed and unable to give further details at this time. He did mention that a boda-boda is "the only way to travel" and hinted, Brenda, that one might be on the way... Kelsey spent two days under the weather and decided to "supervise" Sande's construction crew. Greg felt that God definitely "had his back" in a more literal sense. When at home, one day of concrete work would tucker him out for three days. He has now completed his third consecutive day of concrete work. He has been completely worn out, but is still standing! Deb, Sandra, Donna, Sue, and Michaela worked in the Children of Promise offices prepping for sponsor letters to go out.
Laura and Dorothy spent both days leading the educator workshop, working with Patrick Balidawa, Chairman of all Church of God schools in Uganda, and 22 headmasters (essentially principals). The theme of the workshop was Making Safer Schools. A law was passed recently, forbidding students to be beaten in the schools. Sande had already talked with a group of us in the van one day about this law, but also said that if you go into any classroom, you will see a cane in the corner. Patrick emphasized throughout the workshop that beating the students does not make safer schools. He encouraged headmasters to use the strategies we discussed in our workshop that foster a more emotionally safe environment. It was rewarding to see the teachers participate in active learning games. We provided materials and time for teachers to "make-and-take" flashcards and file folder games. We also gifted them wood blocks (lovingly provided by Ed Breeden), painted with chalkboard paint by many willing hands, and bags of teacher materials (bags lovingly sewn by our own team member, Donna). These gifts were received graciously.
Pastor Dave spent the two days leading a pastors' conference for three hours each day. He raised three questions for each Bible text: 1) What does it say? 2) What did it mean to the first readers? 3) What does it mean today? He featured lively interaction with key text from the prophet Isaiah and across the New Testament on the ministry of Jesus to form "the spirit of the leader." In the final session he provided a concise approach to the book of Revelation exploring its meaning as symbolic literature. It could not have happened without our translator, Pastor Robert Nicoli.
Once again, many newbies had their first boda-boda rides, this time for TAPP visits. TAPP is an acronym for Tumaini (hope) AIDS Prevention Program. Anyone not leading a workshop took turns visiting with women involved in TAPP and bringing gift bags and food provisions. Over the two days 11 visits were made with Sylvia, Madena, Immaculate, Harriet, Fiona, Agnes, Sissy, Annette, Viola, another Agnes, and another Harriet. All of these women are HIV/AIDS positive and caring for many children. A majority of the women do it alone because their husbands have either left them or died from HIV/AIDS. All but one of the women are currently receiving treatment. Praise the Lord! Because of their sicknesses, many are unable to work and needing money to pay rent that is overdue. When talking with Madena, who has no husband or family to help her and is in danger of being evicted, she joked about wanting gray hair like Deb's. This is because gray hair signifies old age and she strongly desires to live a long life. Fiona was in bed for a full year because her sickness made her too weak to get out of bed. One month ago, a group that was visiting with her prayed over her for strength and healing. On today's visit, Fiona was completely mobile with only slight pain in one leg. She knelt down in front of her care-taker mother to profess her gratitude over and over. She wanted to do this with the visitors as witnesses to show how wonderful her mother has been through this process for her. Of course each woman has a special story, but we wanted to take time to share just a couple with those of you reading.
We often find ourselves in the midst of a paradox. There is poverty all around and kids who are without one or both of their parents. Even with these sad circumstances, we get a glimpse of light and hope through the stories of our sponsor children. Several in the group got to meet with children of whom we know the sponsors. Sandra and Michaela met with their own sponsor children. Deb met with Lolly's young girl. Kelsey and Laura became sponsors and were able to meet Betty and Rita for the first time. Donna also was able to spend time with her namesake. Pastor Dave is hopeful that he will be able to meet his sponsor child for the first time on Monday!
As a reward for reading the whole blog, dudu are ants and nfufu is dust. The title is not related to Kelsey's very real and frequent squatty-potty trips. (Side note Gordon & Beth: she is ok.) Dudu and nfufu are EVERYWHERE.
Your blogging team:
Kelsey, Laura, and Michaela
The last two days were spent at Kasubi continuing the variety show that started on Tuesday. Marvin taught a computer class on Wednesday, and today he spent the day on TAPP visits and also visited for a few hours with a student who was working with him during his workshop. Marvin's workshop went so well, he is already in bed and unable to give further details at this time. He did mention that a boda-boda is "the only way to travel" and hinted, Brenda, that one might be on the way... Kelsey spent two days under the weather and decided to "supervise" Sande's construction crew. Greg felt that God definitely "had his back" in a more literal sense. When at home, one day of concrete work would tucker him out for three days. He has now completed his third consecutive day of concrete work. He has been completely worn out, but is still standing! Deb, Sandra, Donna, Sue, and Michaela worked in the Children of Promise offices prepping for sponsor letters to go out.
Laura and Dorothy spent both days leading the educator workshop, working with Patrick Balidawa, Chairman of all Church of God schools in Uganda, and 22 headmasters (essentially principals). The theme of the workshop was Making Safer Schools. A law was passed recently, forbidding students to be beaten in the schools. Sande had already talked with a group of us in the van one day about this law, but also said that if you go into any classroom, you will see a cane in the corner. Patrick emphasized throughout the workshop that beating the students does not make safer schools. He encouraged headmasters to use the strategies we discussed in our workshop that foster a more emotionally safe environment. It was rewarding to see the teachers participate in active learning games. We provided materials and time for teachers to "make-and-take" flashcards and file folder games. We also gifted them wood blocks (lovingly provided by Ed Breeden), painted with chalkboard paint by many willing hands, and bags of teacher materials (bags lovingly sewn by our own team member, Donna). These gifts were received graciously.
Pastor Dave spent the two days leading a pastors' conference for three hours each day. He raised three questions for each Bible text: 1) What does it say? 2) What did it mean to the first readers? 3) What does it mean today? He featured lively interaction with key text from the prophet Isaiah and across the New Testament on the ministry of Jesus to form "the spirit of the leader." In the final session he provided a concise approach to the book of Revelation exploring its meaning as symbolic literature. It could not have happened without our translator, Pastor Robert Nicoli.
Once again, many newbies had their first boda-boda rides, this time for TAPP visits. TAPP is an acronym for Tumaini (hope) AIDS Prevention Program. Anyone not leading a workshop took turns visiting with women involved in TAPP and bringing gift bags and food provisions. Over the two days 11 visits were made with Sylvia, Madena, Immaculate, Harriet, Fiona, Agnes, Sissy, Annette, Viola, another Agnes, and another Harriet. All of these women are HIV/AIDS positive and caring for many children. A majority of the women do it alone because their husbands have either left them or died from HIV/AIDS. All but one of the women are currently receiving treatment. Praise the Lord! Because of their sicknesses, many are unable to work and needing money to pay rent that is overdue. When talking with Madena, who has no husband or family to help her and is in danger of being evicted, she joked about wanting gray hair like Deb's. This is because gray hair signifies old age and she strongly desires to live a long life. Fiona was in bed for a full year because her sickness made her too weak to get out of bed. One month ago, a group that was visiting with her prayed over her for strength and healing. On today's visit, Fiona was completely mobile with only slight pain in one leg. She knelt down in front of her care-taker mother to profess her gratitude over and over. She wanted to do this with the visitors as witnesses to show how wonderful her mother has been through this process for her. Of course each woman has a special story, but we wanted to take time to share just a couple with those of you reading.
We often find ourselves in the midst of a paradox. There is poverty all around and kids who are without one or both of their parents. Even with these sad circumstances, we get a glimpse of light and hope through the stories of our sponsor children. Several in the group got to meet with children of whom we know the sponsors. Sandra and Michaela met with their own sponsor children. Deb met with Lolly's young girl. Kelsey and Laura became sponsors and were able to meet Betty and Rita for the first time. Donna also was able to spend time with her namesake. Pastor Dave is hopeful that he will be able to meet his sponsor child for the first time on Monday!
As a reward for reading the whole blog, dudu are ants and nfufu is dust. The title is not related to Kelsey's very real and frequent squatty-potty trips. (Side note Gordon & Beth: she is ok.) Dudu and nfufu are EVERYWHERE.
Your blogging team:
Kelsey, Laura, and Michaela
Tuesday, June 3, 2014
UgandaTeam Variety Show
Yesterday, we went to Mutungo Church of God and School here in Kampala. Our two drivers, Moses and Sande, live in the Mutungo suburb and are the chairmen of the church and school, respectively. It was such a special occasion for the team to be able to visit and help out at a place very special to our dear friends. These two men are phenomenal men of God, and it was such a privilege to watch their joy and appreciation. Many of us pitched in and acted as cement trucks, working to pour and finish a concrete slab in front of some of the school classrooms. Laura and Kelsey attended "Moses' Wisdom Academy" as he jokingly called it. They learned how to use a laser level to pound pegs (which were simply little bits of splintery wood we Americans would use for kindling) into a brick/dirt floor, prepping for a floor to be poured. Sue, Michaela and the interns spent the day entertaining and herding what seemed to be about 1,000 kids, but was actually only maybe 100. The whole day was full of hard work and lots of fun and laughter. The pasty white visitors made quite the entertainment for the local children.
The team's first Jja Jja visit on Monday, attended by Sunde from TAPP, Donna, Colleen, and Pastor Dave, was with Nora who had given birth to a little girl at the hospital earlier that day. The baby's birth at the hospital meant that she received care that would prevent her mother's HIV positive condition from being passed forward. She invited us to name the baby. The small group thought it best to suggest names and let the mother decide. She involved her mother in the decision. (The group learned afterward that her husband left Nora when he learned she was pregnant.) Several possibilities suggested were: Sarah, (the mother liked Abigail but already had a daughter by that name), Esther, Eve, and Mary. Ultimately, with help from the jja jja, Nora chose "Eve." What a surprise...and a blessing...and a responsibility...to choose or have a role in choosing the name that a little one will hear for all of her days! We rejoice in the choice of Eve, one who knew both the greatest intimacy with God and her beloved, and the deepest brokenness as well. In Kampala on Monday, June 2nd another little one was born facing tremendous challenges yet deeply loved, named in honor of "the mother of all the living," Eve.
Today, we spent our time at Kasubi School, once again, doing a great variety of things. The morning was fairly relaxed as we got the projects for the day and coming days explained and prepared. Some spent the day in the Children of Promise office helping by putting together letters and pictures to send to the sponsors. Let's just say the wording in letters going to the German sponsors gave Deb many laughs - you'll have to ask her for more specifics. Marvin courageously led a technology workshop. Flexibility is a common word we hear and tell ourselves here in Uganda, and Marvin had to quickly adjust some of his plans to meet the expectations of the attendees. The meeting point was somewhere in the middle. Another group moved bricks and worked on more concrete! Yay! That might not have been the word used by all :).
Two trips were taken for jja jja visits. Three were before lunch: Margerine, Jinnette, and Christine, and three after lunch: Teddi, Janet, and Mary. In the morning a small group of 5 took off on boda-bodas (terrifying exhilerating taxi-type motorcycles) to meet with the three women. Details follow to the best of our recollection. Margerine, age 65, shared that all of her children died of AIDS leaving her with 7 grandchildren to care for. Jinnette, age 70, had 6 grandchildren living with her. Christine, age 68, has 4 grandchildren and a beautiful jack-fruit tree. We visited with her under the shade of the tree before she sent us home with a large fruit that Greg enjoyed carrying home on the boda-boda. In the afternoon, another small group of 5 conquered their fears and checked their bucket lists by riding the boda-bodas for three more visits.Teddi, age 60, had 10 children - 6 who died of AIDS and 4 living. Janet, age 73, has 4 grandchildren living with her. Two of the grandchildren had health concerns. Her granddaughter suffered from ailments affecting her back and joints, while her grandson lives with significant physical disabilities. As a special education teacher, Laura immediately noticed that he would be in a severe/profound special education class in the states and would need special equipment to get around and live comfortably. It was very difficult to see this very loved and happy, smiling boy lying on the floor. It was beautiful to see him smile and respond to our touch and singing. Our third visit was with Mary, age 78, who has 8 grandchildren living with her. Needless to say, the conditions these women live in with so many to care for would be considered inadequate for people we know in the US. All of these jja jjas live with impairments of their own - most with leg problems and high blood pressure. As visitors, we were never allowed to give up our more comfortable seating to our gracious hosts, who ALWAYS sat on the floor before us. It is hard to find words to fully describe these experiences. Some words that more easily come to mind are: respect and admiration for the lives they live and love they give, joy to see their faces as they open their gifts of blanket, towel, food provisions, and goody-bags for the children, laughter when they wanted to play with the toys themselves and popped "sweeties" in their mouths, and gratitude for... so many things, but mostly their willingness to share their homes and lives with us.
It doesn't often get blogged about, but we wanted to mention that each night there is meaningful conversations and relationship building happening around the dinner table and during our evening devotions. This precious time may be less entertaining and more difficult to capture specifically in words, but should not be overlooked, as it is a vital part of this experience.
And last but not least, we, especially Sue and Michaela, want to wish their mother and grandmother, Clara, a big 90th Ugandan HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Love you lots and wish you much joy and a blessed day.
This blogging team will leave you with the words found in Pastor Markle's shared Dove chocolates: Engage, embrace, enjoy. Well said Dove. It is obviously getting late and your bloggers have drifted to bed one-by-one, leaving only the delirious...
Blogging team members:
Kelsey & Laura with special input from Michaela, Greg, and Pastor Dave
The team's first Jja Jja visit on Monday, attended by Sunde from TAPP, Donna, Colleen, and Pastor Dave, was with Nora who had given birth to a little girl at the hospital earlier that day. The baby's birth at the hospital meant that she received care that would prevent her mother's HIV positive condition from being passed forward. She invited us to name the baby. The small group thought it best to suggest names and let the mother decide. She involved her mother in the decision. (The group learned afterward that her husband left Nora when he learned she was pregnant.) Several possibilities suggested were: Sarah, (the mother liked Abigail but already had a daughter by that name), Esther, Eve, and Mary. Ultimately, with help from the jja jja, Nora chose "Eve." What a surprise...and a blessing...and a responsibility...to choose or have a role in choosing the name that a little one will hear for all of her days! We rejoice in the choice of Eve, one who knew both the greatest intimacy with God and her beloved, and the deepest brokenness as well. In Kampala on Monday, June 2nd another little one was born facing tremendous challenges yet deeply loved, named in honor of "the mother of all the living," Eve.
Today, we spent our time at Kasubi School, once again, doing a great variety of things. The morning was fairly relaxed as we got the projects for the day and coming days explained and prepared. Some spent the day in the Children of Promise office helping by putting together letters and pictures to send to the sponsors. Let's just say the wording in letters going to the German sponsors gave Deb many laughs - you'll have to ask her for more specifics. Marvin courageously led a technology workshop. Flexibility is a common word we hear and tell ourselves here in Uganda, and Marvin had to quickly adjust some of his plans to meet the expectations of the attendees. The meeting point was somewhere in the middle. Another group moved bricks and worked on more concrete! Yay! That might not have been the word used by all :).
Two trips were taken for jja jja visits. Three were before lunch: Margerine, Jinnette, and Christine, and three after lunch: Teddi, Janet, and Mary. In the morning a small group of 5 took off on boda-bodas (
It doesn't often get blogged about, but we wanted to mention that each night there is meaningful conversations and relationship building happening around the dinner table and during our evening devotions. This precious time may be less entertaining and more difficult to capture specifically in words, but should not be overlooked, as it is a vital part of this experience.
And last but not least, we, especially Sue and Michaela, want to wish their mother and grandmother, Clara, a big 90th Ugandan HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Love you lots and wish you much joy and a blessed day.
This blogging team will leave you with the words found in Pastor Markle's shared Dove chocolates: Engage, embrace, enjoy. Well said Dove. It is obviously getting late and your bloggers have drifted to bed one-by-one, leaving only the delirious...
Blogging team members:
Kelsey & Laura with special input from Michaela, Greg, and Pastor Dave
Monday, June 2, 2014
The Village People
As previously mentioned, we headed to the village of "Chai" this past weekend. The journey started on what seemed to be a simple 4.5 hour drive and just a few miles away, as Moses (one of our drivers) said. We stopped for lunch at a little restaurant, which we THOUGHT was about halfway. The menu options were: meat and food, chicken and food, fish and food, beans and food...you get the idea. We ate the hodgepodge of "food", took an adventure to the squatty potty, and were off for the rest of the short trip to "Chai". With a couple stops for miscommunications and confusion, we finally turned onto a dirt strip they called a road -- big enough to fit one boda boda (motorcycle). The sign next to the road informed us we had arrived at "Kyayi"...contrary to popular belief, their pronunciation of "Kyayi" and our pronunciation of "Chai" is the same, but unfortunately, we did not get the same tea we anticipated.
We were welcomed by a warm hosting of village people of all ages, and we began to set up camp, since the short trip to Kyayi had taken almost all daylight. Naturally, the circus had arrived, so all of the children came out of the woodwork to watch the foreigners attempt to prepare for a night in the wilderness. After finally succeeding, the women then served us yummy tea and treats, before our feast of a dinner. We bucket bathed by the moonlight and stargazed, while taking an all-women's team tinkle. Our camp was set up by a school house, and apparently, around 3 am, the night life started. Some people of the village took over the school house, and practiced their English rather loudly for the rest of the night. Waking up rather tired from a night of partying, without actually being invited to the party, we ventured to a jja jja's land to dedicate the house to her, provided by the J.O.Y. Circle. Much celebration was had with singing and dancing, as we opened the home and gave her a bed complete with bedding and a cross to hang on the wall.
Church was next on the agenda. The typical 3.5 hour service was a very special time for all. We, the visitors, were blessed by much music and dancing. Pastor Dave delivered a wonderful sermon and Dorothy gave an encouraging testimony. Kelsey attempted to lead a couple little worship songs, while the church's keyboard player attempted to assist. There was no prior rehearsal, so let's just say, they were on two different musical pages -- worship was cut short. Next, Pastor Dave got the special opportunity of dedicating the new babies and children of the church. He dedicated more babies that Sunday than he ever had on any given Sunday -- praise God! What a wonderful blessing. Another special treat we got to be a part of was giving away Operation Christmas Child boxes to many of the children. Yes, we know it is June, but the children were still just as happy as if it was Christmas morning. Last but not least, we gave away 12 goats to several lovely jja jjas in the church. Late afternoon lunch was served, and we finally hit that jarring, red dirt road once again. Moses tried to tell us the ride was simply an extended massage. On the evening drive home, we were almost run off the road by the president and his posse of vehicles, complete with his own traveling toilet truck. The final event included a roadside bathroom squat...we will just leave the rest of that to the imagination.
Within a few hours of the group returning from the village, Marvin Ginn and Laura Willowby arrived from the airport. There was a small group of people who stayed up to welcome them (much appreciated) just before 1:00 am Uganda time. This second trip was also mostly uneventful, except for another tagged bag at Heathrow security, endangering the on-time boarding of yet another flight. If you don't feel safe at the Heathrow airport, we're pretty sure you will feel safe nowhere. Be assured that no deodorant or mouth wash will interfere with the safety of your travels. We anxiously await the arrival of our final team member, Sandra Overstreet, and hope that she is able to skirt the dreaded beep that signals your carry-on tote's journey through the additional security.
After a long day of hard work and fellowship, we hope to get up-to-date with our blog tomorrow night.
--Kelsey and Laura
We were welcomed by a warm hosting of village people of all ages, and we began to set up camp, since the short trip to Kyayi had taken almost all daylight. Naturally, the circus had arrived, so all of the children came out of the woodwork to watch the foreigners attempt to prepare for a night in the wilderness. After finally succeeding, the women then served us yummy tea and treats, before our feast of a dinner. We bucket bathed by the moonlight and stargazed, while taking an all-women's team tinkle. Our camp was set up by a school house, and apparently, around 3 am, the night life started. Some people of the village took over the school house, and practiced their English rather loudly for the rest of the night. Waking up rather tired from a night of partying, without actually being invited to the party, we ventured to a jja jja's land to dedicate the house to her, provided by the J.O.Y. Circle. Much celebration was had with singing and dancing, as we opened the home and gave her a bed complete with bedding and a cross to hang on the wall.
Church was next on the agenda. The typical 3.5 hour service was a very special time for all. We, the visitors, were blessed by much music and dancing. Pastor Dave delivered a wonderful sermon and Dorothy gave an encouraging testimony. Kelsey attempted to lead a couple little worship songs, while the church's keyboard player attempted to assist. There was no prior rehearsal, so let's just say, they were on two different musical pages -- worship was cut short. Next, Pastor Dave got the special opportunity of dedicating the new babies and children of the church. He dedicated more babies that Sunday than he ever had on any given Sunday -- praise God! What a wonderful blessing. Another special treat we got to be a part of was giving away Operation Christmas Child boxes to many of the children. Yes, we know it is June, but the children were still just as happy as if it was Christmas morning. Last but not least, we gave away 12 goats to several lovely jja jjas in the church. Late afternoon lunch was served, and we finally hit that jarring, red dirt road once again. Moses tried to tell us the ride was simply an extended massage. On the evening drive home, we were almost run off the road by the president and his posse of vehicles, complete with his own traveling toilet truck. The final event included a roadside bathroom squat...we will just leave the rest of that to the imagination.
Within a few hours of the group returning from the village, Marvin Ginn and Laura Willowby arrived from the airport. There was a small group of people who stayed up to welcome them (much appreciated) just before 1:00 am Uganda time. This second trip was also mostly uneventful, except for another tagged bag at Heathrow security, endangering the on-time boarding of yet another flight. If you don't feel safe at the Heathrow airport, we're pretty sure you will feel safe nowhere. Be assured that no deodorant or mouth wash will interfere with the safety of your travels. We anxiously await the arrival of our final team member, Sandra Overstreet, and hope that she is able to skirt the dreaded beep that signals your carry-on tote's journey through the additional security.
After a long day of hard work and fellowship, we hope to get up-to-date with our blog tomorrow night.
--Kelsey and Laura
Friday, May 30, 2014
Group One Arrived!
Pardon the delay in posting, but group one of the team (Pastor Dave, Deb Breeden, Greg and Kelsey Stiers, Sue and Michaela Hammel, Donna Coulter, and Dorothy Hampton) arrived last evening on time, with every piece of baggage fully in tact, and only slightly grouchy! The Lord was clearly guiding our path, because we only encountered a couple minor hiccups -- a monsoon attacked us coming through Lafayette, Michaela had boarding pass trouble in Chicago, and Dorothy's bag got flagged in Heathrow for an inappropriate liquid. Who knew SOLID deodorant was considered a liquid?! She made it onto the plane just before the last boarding call...phew!
On a positive note, British Airways must have been trying to butter us up, because they gave everyone but Donna and Greg upgraded seats...real silverware and a beef filet for dinner! The extra seat room, foot rests and noise-canceling headphones were a nice touch too.
Today, we all woke up to the warm welcome of a shining sun, feeling quite refreshed and french toast for breakfast prepared by the house ladies...nom nom! We have spent a lovely day getting aquainted with the Stevenson home and their staff. All of our extra luggage and donations (thanks to all of you) have been sorted and prepared for our weeks ahead.
Tomorrow morning, we will pack up and head to the village of Chai for a couple days. We will be spending the weekend visiting the people of Chai and their chuch. Thanks to the donations of the Joy Circle, we will also dedicate a house to a jja jja (grandmother).
Thank you all for your prayers and support! After we return from the village, we will update y'all again.
--Kelsey (and a little help from the peanut gallery :) )
On a positive note, British Airways must have been trying to butter us up, because they gave everyone but Donna and Greg upgraded seats...real silverware and a beef filet for dinner! The extra seat room, foot rests and noise-canceling headphones were a nice touch too.
Today, we all woke up to the warm welcome of a shining sun, feeling quite refreshed and french toast for breakfast prepared by the house ladies...nom nom! We have spent a lovely day getting aquainted with the Stevenson home and their staff. All of our extra luggage and donations (thanks to all of you) have been sorted and prepared for our weeks ahead.
Tomorrow morning, we will pack up and head to the village of Chai for a couple days. We will be spending the weekend visiting the people of Chai and their chuch. Thanks to the donations of the Joy Circle, we will also dedicate a house to a jja jja (grandmother).
Thank you all for your prayers and support! After we return from the village, we will update y'all again.
--Kelsey (and a little help from the peanut gallery :) )
Thursday, May 1, 2014
A Change in Attitude ... by Deb Breeden
Two years have come and gone between my last journey to Uganda and the one soon to come. During that time, my life has been full of adventure and discovery, as well as, disheartening circumstance. But when I think about my life in comparison to those that suffer or go without on a daily basis I am reminded that in my life I have the choices and resources that can make a difference in my circumstance. I need to be occasionally reminded of what is necessary and what is want, what is an inconvenience and what is survival, what is temporary and what is permanent. All too often I find myself in the need of an attitude adjustment. Returning to Uganda is part of that reminder.
Recently, I read this definition of Joy, by Kay Warren, "Joy is the settled assurance that God is in control of all of the details of my life, the quiet confidence that ultimately everything is going to be all right, and the determined choice to praise God in all things." Great in theory, more difficult in daily practice. As Holy Week unfolded on Facebook, I read many posts about living in the Saturday, not rushing from the emotional sadness of Good Friday to the euphoric celebration of the Resurrection without the time spent in the heaviness of not knowing of Saturday. Not knowing that everything is going to be all right. I think many people live life in the Saturday. Returning to Uganda reminds me how important it is to live in community. To share the burden of Saturday living while we wait for Sunday.
Like all trips before, it is necessary to do lots of fundraising and I don't know why, but Ed and I always take on more than feels comfortable in the two months prior to my departure, just in case, I haven't raised enough money to pay for the trip. At the same time, I usually want to slow down and try and focus on getting into a different frame of mind. One that takes me away from the hustle and bustle of this life to one where I will be intentional about being present in the moment. Being more still and listening to what God and others are saying to me. Kind of hard to do both at the same time, but God used different illustrations while we were working to remind me of important lessons to remember for this journey back to Uganda. An accidental head piercing from a single thorn and the split blood; a heavy tree limb laboriously moved from it's place on the low lying edge of the property, to it's place up the hill on the burn pile; the smell of burning straw and wet magazines; the expectation of more than what we were given; the voices and stories of those that dwell most days in the loneliness and despair of Saturday...all reminders of where my head and my heart need to be. Jesus...and his people. The widow... the orphan...the poor.
There are 27 days until departure ... and 28 days until arrival. The difference between those dates are not nearly enough time to transition to a place of mission mindedness. One must constantly be aware of the signs before us that lead us to life of service. I need this trip to Uganda to be reminded to slow down and be present in the moment so that I can be a help to those who are having trouble finding their Joy, even if it's me. I need to feel the pain of the piercing thorn and the breathlessness of the walk up the hill to be reminded it wasn't a privileged life... or death. That the Lord I serve was a servant, himself and I have been called to go serve with the hope of Resurrection Sunday.
Recently, I read this definition of Joy, by Kay Warren, "Joy is the settled assurance that God is in control of all of the details of my life, the quiet confidence that ultimately everything is going to be all right, and the determined choice to praise God in all things." Great in theory, more difficult in daily practice. As Holy Week unfolded on Facebook, I read many posts about living in the Saturday, not rushing from the emotional sadness of Good Friday to the euphoric celebration of the Resurrection without the time spent in the heaviness of not knowing of Saturday. Not knowing that everything is going to be all right. I think many people live life in the Saturday. Returning to Uganda reminds me how important it is to live in community. To share the burden of Saturday living while we wait for Sunday.
There are 27 days until departure ... and 28 days until arrival. The difference between those dates are not nearly enough time to transition to a place of mission mindedness. One must constantly be aware of the signs before us that lead us to life of service. I need this trip to Uganda to be reminded to slow down and be present in the moment so that I can be a help to those who are having trouble finding their Joy, even if it's me. I need to feel the pain of the piercing thorn and the breathlessness of the walk up the hill to be reminded it wasn't a privileged life... or death. That the Lord I serve was a servant, himself and I have been called to go serve with the hope of Resurrection Sunday.
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