I am sitting in the airport with mixed emotions. Part of me is very ready to be home and return to the 'easy' life while part of me is very sad about leaving the people and the Kenyan way of life. Kenyan life is not easy. The days are long and filled with tasks we think nothing about like using propane to heat water for a bath and the amount of time it takes to cook a meal. This trip has made me realize how special this place is and how much I have been blessed by being here.
This is the first visit where I did not have a job so I was not stressed by no internet, no power or deadlines. I had planned on reading a few books in the evening and using this trip to prioritize my job search and goals. I figured being away from home with Tim in a place we love and where we know exactly what we are here to accomplish would be good for both us. I did not expect to learn anything new or see anything different than normal. I did want to make this as easy a trip as possible for Tim.
I knew we would be staying at some orphanages and the John and Mary Sue Vocational Training Center. I knew we would not have showers every day. I knew we would eat on the orphanage schedule. I knew I would take pictures and visit with the workers and widows. I knew I would have some free time. I thought I knew everything that could/would happen. What I did not know or expect was the incredible graciousness, hospitality, friendship and love I would find just by being on sire for more than a few hours. I got to see what happens in an average day of work for the widows - who happen to be some amazingly strong and dedicated women, what kids do in the morning before school - which goes from 8am to 6pm, what the guards do to keep everyone safe, and the incredible love and humbleness of our workers - who do not have a restful moment as phones are constantly ringing and people are always needing something. Not to mention the women behind our workers. I have never met more devoted, loving, self-sacrificing, servant women in my life. I tried to be like one for a few days and realized how hard it was to put someone's needs before my own and how difficult it is to keep my opinions to myself.
I did get to spend time at each location with the kids. By time, I mean sitting and answering any questions they had - including 'Is mzungu poop different than Kenyan poop?' Yes, I did answer and got a laugh in response which led to some really good questions. The kids opened up and shared some fears, dreams, and goals. They also wanted to touch my hair and rub my arms which is not something I have had 'time' for in the past. I did hug every child and adult I saw part in effort to show I cared for them and in part to say thank you for what they are teaching me....God is good all the time and He has a plan for each one of us.
I cannot explain the complete joy of waking up to the sound of kids singing at Londiani, the stars in the sky over Ndhawi, holding the hands of babies during church at Kericho, or sitting in a dark room listening to the chior at Uriri. These are things I would never have experienced if I had not been staying overnight at our places and I thank each of you for allowing me to be a representative of your love.
Nawapenda - I love you all.
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