Also, today was market day and I took some more photos of that experience to share.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Halloween & the market
Yesterday, in anticipation of having my day off today, I had the kids make masks out of paper plates. Then today I bought some chocolates and mints for them so we could have a little halloween. I had Auntie Joanna and Auntie Cassady hide behind two doors and had each kid knock on the door and say Trick or Treat and thank you after taking a candy. It was too cute!! I don't think any of them really understood the concept and I didn't go into very great depth as to what we were doing, but I guess that might have been a wise decision! What did they care, yesterday they got to make something fun and today they got to wear it and get candy?!
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Lovin on my kiddos!
God sent Sandy so you all could empathize with my life here, how we constantly lose electricity or running water. Just kidding, glad you are all safe!
I know you aren't supposed to pick favorites when it comes to your kids, sometimes for the day though I do pick my favorites (of course I don't tell them). Well, maybe it's more like they do something to make them my favorite for the day. I do absolutely love them all to pieces.
I came downstairs the other day and Joshua was standing at the trash cans throwing something away and I said, "Hey handsome, how you doin?", to which he replied, "Hey beautiful.", without missing a beat.
Cocus fell asleep holding my hand and laying in my lap on our way home from church on Sunday. I smiled the whole time!
Esther, even though I had to yell at her multiple times through nap time, followed me around afterwards wanting to be with me all the time.
You know how I said I went through the girls' closet, well I put them all in adorable long t-shirts and black leggings today, super cute.
Joel and I were working on his reading skills tonight, he's improved since I've been here and craves all the praise I can give him with a cute blush.
Sometimes I look at Emma and think Benjamin Button; is he a cute old man or a little boy?
Don sometimes forgets I don't speak Luganda (with the exception of maybe 10 words) and uses Luganda words intermized with English when he talks to me.
Jerom has these cheeks, both on his face and his bum, that make you just want to pinch them. I'll give him tons of kisses and then he starts laughing with this high pitched laugh and I have to just keep on giving him love.
Do you know it was only after a month that I found out that Jerom and Joel are brothers, I knew from day 1 that Esther and Brenda were sisters, but neither pair of siblings act like it, they are all equally loving and equally doling out some punishment.
I am only here for one more month, time seems to be going so fast and I am going to bawl like a baby when I have to say good-bye.
Top left to right: Annet, Joshua, Fauziya, Cocus, Brenda, Joel, Oscar
Bottom left to right: Emma, Carol, Esther, Don, Jerom
I know you aren't supposed to pick favorites when it comes to your kids, sometimes for the day though I do pick my favorites (of course I don't tell them). Well, maybe it's more like they do something to make them my favorite for the day. I do absolutely love them all to pieces.
I came downstairs the other day and Joshua was standing at the trash cans throwing something away and I said, "Hey handsome, how you doin?", to which he replied, "Hey beautiful.", without missing a beat.
Cocus fell asleep holding my hand and laying in my lap on our way home from church on Sunday. I smiled the whole time!
Esther, even though I had to yell at her multiple times through nap time, followed me around afterwards wanting to be with me all the time.
You know how I said I went through the girls' closet, well I put them all in adorable long t-shirts and black leggings today, super cute.
Joel and I were working on his reading skills tonight, he's improved since I've been here and craves all the praise I can give him with a cute blush.
Sometimes I look at Emma and think Benjamin Button; is he a cute old man or a little boy?
Don sometimes forgets I don't speak Luganda (with the exception of maybe 10 words) and uses Luganda words intermized with English when he talks to me.
Jerom has these cheeks, both on his face and his bum, that make you just want to pinch them. I'll give him tons of kisses and then he starts laughing with this high pitched laugh and I have to just keep on giving him love.
Do you know it was only after a month that I found out that Jerom and Joel are brothers, I knew from day 1 that Esther and Brenda were sisters, but neither pair of siblings act like it, they are all equally loving and equally doling out some punishment.
I am only here for one more month, time seems to be going so fast and I am going to bawl like a baby when I have to say good-bye.
Bottom left to right: Emma, Carol, Esther, Don, Jerom
Monday, October 29, 2012
On the street
Yesterday after being diagnosed, finally, with Giardia (a parasitic infection that has left her sick on and off for the past 6 weeks, ugh!) the missionary, Joanna, was all ready to pay at the hospital by credit card but their network was down. I was able to loan her most of the cash but didn't have it all, so we set out for Garden City, a mall with an ATM, to only have it eat her card, I felt so bad for her! Last night we were discussing what her facebook status should read: I got diagnosed with Giardia, haven't pooped in 5 days, the ATM ate my card, Emma fell in the toilet (oh yes, the tiniest little Emma at 3.5 years and 24" tall, went to sit on the toilet, but the seat wasn't down and he fell bum first into the toilet with his legs and head popping out...yes, please laugh!), and then I burned my eye with icy hot. Poor Joanna!!
So we went to try and retrieve Joanna's card from the bank this morning, and after sitting in a traffic jam for an extra hour this morning, she successfully got her card returned to her! The traffic jam was the beginning of a hectic morning in which we got in two minor accidents, but serving turned it all around! Oh, what another wonderful day serving. We've made Mondays our day to go to Sanyu Babies Home in the morning and then A Perfect Injustice (API) street ministry in the afternoon. They are both ministries that leave you feeling like you helped. I might get frustrated at times, like when no Ugandan is around and I've got 20 children aged 1-4 in front of me, most of them crying and none of them knowing English, but then I just start singing a random song from VBS 25 years ago, start clapping my hands and stomping my feet and suddenly the kids stop crying and start staring at me in amazement, or when you walk to the dining hall and the mama walking in front of you just left the kids in the dining hall without supervision to walk down to the play area, or out to where the plumber left all his tools and they are hitting each other with wrenches...hello!!
Today, because of the generosity of friends and family I was able to purchase two large saucepans (ok, think 2'-3' in diameter) and a charcoal oven for the street ministry, we also brought some medical supplies to leave. I led a lesson today on Uganda, showed them a map of the world, talked to them about some geography terms, showed them some photos of Uganda and then told them about the Ugandan flag. I broke them in to 6 groups and each kid got to make a Ugandan flag. These kids, because they don't have access to a formal education, really want to experience that, so doing things like writing on a board of chalk (notice I didn't say chalkboard, we meet in a structure with a tin roof, no walls and a dirt floor; no walls means no walls for chalkboards, so they carry around a board of chalk), asking questions and having them raise their hands, and doing artwork is really effective. I then taught them another VBS song that would get them active, and they loved it, can't wait to share the video! After playing soccer I led them in a devotion on friendship, the red in the Ugandan flag represents brotherhood and I translated that to friendship, I told them the story of Jonathan and David being friends. They always seem to ask, but then what happened? I like it, they're interested!!
Its amazing how different these kids are, one might want to sit next to you and hold your hand, the next kid will hardly bump fists with you, they all have varied pasts, most of them sordid and sad. The slums of Kampala are not pretty, they don't smell good, and these young teenagers sleep on the streets every night. Their clothing tells it all, with one shoe, shirts 3 times too big and full of holes, a sweater in the middle of a 90 degree day, or wearing a girl's shirt, its a sad picture to paint, but it is real for these kids. I was remarking the other day how you could walk into a store and see a kid playing on a phone, wearing matching clothes and looking well taken care of, but then you walk just up the street and you see a child that looks like its been featured on the Save-A-Child infomercial.
Today I met a guy at API who was at the beginning of his week of spending it as a boy on the street, voluntarily. He was going to eat with them, like them, only what they eat, and he's going to sleep on the streets. I doubt he'll steal for his food like these kids do, or beg like they do, or try and swindle you like they do, but he's going to survive as honestly as he can as they do. Will you please join me in lifting Justin up, for perseverence, and for God to not have it rain a lot this week? And, also, please pray for all the ministries of Uganda, for the workers, those being served, and those supporting them. Thanks!
While I was at the street ministry I finally got to capture a picture of the biggest bird I think I've ever seen, well, next to Big Bird! The boy that pointed it out to me thought I was crazy cause I was so excited to finally get a picture of it! I have no idea what it is, a stork of some sort maybe, but they are bigger than Emma!
I've been praying in earnest for all of you on the east coast!! Hunker down folks and heed all warnings!
So we went to try and retrieve Joanna's card from the bank this morning, and after sitting in a traffic jam for an extra hour this morning, she successfully got her card returned to her! The traffic jam was the beginning of a hectic morning in which we got in two minor accidents, but serving turned it all around! Oh, what another wonderful day serving. We've made Mondays our day to go to Sanyu Babies Home in the morning and then A Perfect Injustice (API) street ministry in the afternoon. They are both ministries that leave you feeling like you helped. I might get frustrated at times, like when no Ugandan is around and I've got 20 children aged 1-4 in front of me, most of them crying and none of them knowing English, but then I just start singing a random song from VBS 25 years ago, start clapping my hands and stomping my feet and suddenly the kids stop crying and start staring at me in amazement, or when you walk to the dining hall and the mama walking in front of you just left the kids in the dining hall without supervision to walk down to the play area, or out to where the plumber left all his tools and they are hitting each other with wrenches...hello!!
Today, because of the generosity of friends and family I was able to purchase two large saucepans (ok, think 2'-3' in diameter) and a charcoal oven for the street ministry, we also brought some medical supplies to leave. I led a lesson today on Uganda, showed them a map of the world, talked to them about some geography terms, showed them some photos of Uganda and then told them about the Ugandan flag. I broke them in to 6 groups and each kid got to make a Ugandan flag. These kids, because they don't have access to a formal education, really want to experience that, so doing things like writing on a board of chalk (notice I didn't say chalkboard, we meet in a structure with a tin roof, no walls and a dirt floor; no walls means no walls for chalkboards, so they carry around a board of chalk), asking questions and having them raise their hands, and doing artwork is really effective. I then taught them another VBS song that would get them active, and they loved it, can't wait to share the video! After playing soccer I led them in a devotion on friendship, the red in the Ugandan flag represents brotherhood and I translated that to friendship, I told them the story of Jonathan and David being friends. They always seem to ask, but then what happened? I like it, they're interested!!
Its amazing how different these kids are, one might want to sit next to you and hold your hand, the next kid will hardly bump fists with you, they all have varied pasts, most of them sordid and sad. The slums of Kampala are not pretty, they don't smell good, and these young teenagers sleep on the streets every night. Their clothing tells it all, with one shoe, shirts 3 times too big and full of holes, a sweater in the middle of a 90 degree day, or wearing a girl's shirt, its a sad picture to paint, but it is real for these kids. I was remarking the other day how you could walk into a store and see a kid playing on a phone, wearing matching clothes and looking well taken care of, but then you walk just up the street and you see a child that looks like its been featured on the Save-A-Child infomercial.
Today I met a guy at API who was at the beginning of his week of spending it as a boy on the street, voluntarily. He was going to eat with them, like them, only what they eat, and he's going to sleep on the streets. I doubt he'll steal for his food like these kids do, or beg like they do, or try and swindle you like they do, but he's going to survive as honestly as he can as they do. Will you please join me in lifting Justin up, for perseverence, and for God to not have it rain a lot this week? And, also, please pray for all the ministries of Uganda, for the workers, those being served, and those supporting them. Thanks!
While I was at the street ministry I finally got to capture a picture of the biggest bird I think I've ever seen, well, next to Big Bird! The boy that pointed it out to me thought I was crazy cause I was so excited to finally get a picture of it! I have no idea what it is, a stork of some sort maybe, but they are bigger than Emma!
I've been praying in earnest for all of you on the east coast!! Hunker down folks and heed all warnings!
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Toys, Noah and Faith
After having to re-start our day this morning (I spanked every child after breakfast and sent them back to bed after spending the two previous hours telling them to be quiet, listen to their aunties and uncles, stop hitting/beating/pinching/tattling, etc, I was already done). So we restarted our day, I hugged each one of them as they exited their rooms and set up wood blocks for the girls and legos for the boys to play with, and after half an hour they switched toys. They've had these toys in the living room, but they are in big black bins so I think they are often forgotten, well what better to do on a rainy morning than play with legos and blocks, my personal favorite toys! They looked so All-American, check them out (I also went through the girls' closet on Thursday and made them all cute little outfits that actually match, they pull whatever they feel like out ordinarily!)
They had so much fun, and actually the day got better from there, it wasn't perfect, but they were better behaved than before. Then I finally told the other missionaries (ok, and now you) that I've been frustrated with their level of commitment to serve and am exhausted from being the only one to get up with them for bathing, breakfast and school every morning, and constantly feeling like I'm the only one downstairs all the time; Joanna was only disappointed that I hadn't told her sooner. The administrator had tried a discrete way, and then so did I with my devotions, but sometimes direct and to the point is what is needed. I am personally a fan of direct and to the point, but often times people can be so sensitive that it's hard to share, so I was trying the other approach, but really, it's just not me. I'm going back to direct and when timed appropriately; i.e. before your oil well overflows (thanks Dad!). So you're thinking really her day got better by having this happen, but really it did, I felt so much relief. I know you know what I'm talking about!
After rest time I played so hard with the kids, chasing them, playing soccer, holding their feet while they walk on their hands, etc. My body is exhausted. But I managed to finish our week on Noah and the Bible verse: I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth. Gen 9:13, and all but the youngest child, Emma, memorized it! I made supper tonight and all the kids ate it happily, which means none of them cried (see previous posts if this doesn't make sense!): spaghetti, ground beef and homemade sauce, with buttered dinner rolls warmed in the oven!!
Tonight is typically game night but the boys had misbehaved during naptime so no games was their punishment, since the girls got to stay up a bit longer I gave them each lip gloss to put on, painted their finger nails with clear (their nails get inspected at school so no chipped nail polish) and read them the story of Snow White. Girl time!
This evening I led devotions on faith, Hebrews 11, its amazing the amount of faith people like Noah, Moses, and Abraham had and what they did for their faith, it is actually very humbling and makes me think it should be easier for me to have faith if they did amidst all their strife. Read it and you'll feel similarly. Yesterday the kids watched Evan Almighty, its a movie based loosely on the story of Noah, and helped reinforce the incredible faith Noah had in building an ark in the middle of dry land. Hebrews 11 starts off with such a great definition of faith: Now faith is being sure of what we hope for, and certain of what we do not see.
My middle name is Faith, you'd think that it would make it easier for me to have all the time, you'd think just because I took a leave of absence from work, put my life on hold for three months and went to mission in Africa that my faith must be immense. Well, I guess the day I said 'yes' to God about coming here it was, but it waivers all the time, just like what happens in most of you, we're human, but you should keep on striving to have more of it; where might He take you?!
They had so much fun, and actually the day got better from there, it wasn't perfect, but they were better behaved than before. Then I finally told the other missionaries (ok, and now you) that I've been frustrated with their level of commitment to serve and am exhausted from being the only one to get up with them for bathing, breakfast and school every morning, and constantly feeling like I'm the only one downstairs all the time; Joanna was only disappointed that I hadn't told her sooner. The administrator had tried a discrete way, and then so did I with my devotions, but sometimes direct and to the point is what is needed. I am personally a fan of direct and to the point, but often times people can be so sensitive that it's hard to share, so I was trying the other approach, but really, it's just not me. I'm going back to direct and when timed appropriately; i.e. before your oil well overflows (thanks Dad!). So you're thinking really her day got better by having this happen, but really it did, I felt so much relief. I know you know what I'm talking about!
After rest time I played so hard with the kids, chasing them, playing soccer, holding their feet while they walk on their hands, etc. My body is exhausted. But I managed to finish our week on Noah and the Bible verse: I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth. Gen 9:13, and all but the youngest child, Emma, memorized it! I made supper tonight and all the kids ate it happily, which means none of them cried (see previous posts if this doesn't make sense!): spaghetti, ground beef and homemade sauce, with buttered dinner rolls warmed in the oven!!
Tonight is typically game night but the boys had misbehaved during naptime so no games was their punishment, since the girls got to stay up a bit longer I gave them each lip gloss to put on, painted their finger nails with clear (their nails get inspected at school so no chipped nail polish) and read them the story of Snow White. Girl time!
This evening I led devotions on faith, Hebrews 11, its amazing the amount of faith people like Noah, Moses, and Abraham had and what they did for their faith, it is actually very humbling and makes me think it should be easier for me to have faith if they did amidst all their strife. Read it and you'll feel similarly. Yesterday the kids watched Evan Almighty, its a movie based loosely on the story of Noah, and helped reinforce the incredible faith Noah had in building an ark in the middle of dry land. Hebrews 11 starts off with such a great definition of faith: Now faith is being sure of what we hope for, and certain of what we do not see.
My middle name is Faith, you'd think that it would make it easier for me to have all the time, you'd think just because I took a leave of absence from work, put my life on hold for three months and went to mission in Africa that my faith must be immense. Well, I guess the day I said 'yes' to God about coming here it was, but it waivers all the time, just like what happens in most of you, we're human, but you should keep on striving to have more of it; where might He take you?!
Friday, October 26, 2012
A little sleep, a little slumber...
Pastor Josh at Watoto Church on Sunday warned Ugandans about being known for their poor work ethic and I briefly touched on this in my blog the other day. I was so astounded by the comparison between a Chinese worker's output and a Ugandan's, and then even by the comparison of a Kenyan to a Ugandan, that I had to dig deeper. The minister mentioned Proverbs 24: 30-32, but as I was referring back to these verses I realized he didn't include the well-known verses just after that: A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest- and poverty will come on you like a bandit, and scarcity like an armed man. And boy does that speak to you/me!
Yes, we all need to take more personal responsibility and accountability for ourselves, but we also have a responsibility to our communities, our families, and others we surround ourselves with or associate with.
Yes, you might have a great work ethic, but what else might you let slack: your weight, your relationship with God, an important relationship with someone else?!
And then this digging deeper led me to 2 Thessalonians where Paul warns of idleness. How easy it is to sit there idly, being a busybody instead of really making progress, how we can be brought down by others who sit there idly while the world passes by.
Yes, I wanted to ignite some passion to work harder in some of my fellow devotional partners, but then I realized how much more I could be doing in other ways to keep myself from running on neutral, idling in the parking lot instead of moving forward. Its not just about your, or my, devotion to be at work from 8-6 Monday thru Friday, but to be a good mom, a devoted husband, an involved constituent, a good friend, and to keep growing in every aspect of your life.
Yes, we all need to take more personal responsibility and accountability for ourselves, but we also have a responsibility to our communities, our families, and others we surround ourselves with or associate with.
Yes, you might have a great work ethic, but what else might you let slack: your weight, your relationship with God, an important relationship with someone else?!
And then this digging deeper led me to 2 Thessalonians where Paul warns of idleness. How easy it is to sit there idly, being a busybody instead of really making progress, how we can be brought down by others who sit there idly while the world passes by.
Yes, I wanted to ignite some passion to work harder in some of my fellow devotional partners, but then I realized how much more I could be doing in other ways to keep myself from running on neutral, idling in the parking lot instead of moving forward. Its not just about your, or my, devotion to be at work from 8-6 Monday thru Friday, but to be a good mom, a devoted husband, an involved constituent, a good friend, and to keep growing in every aspect of your life.
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
No stars?
I know I was sharing a lot to be thankful for just the other day, but I've got a big one to share. This morning the missionary that arrived just last Wednesday, Uncle James, departed for home. That's not the thankful part; he is a really sweet, honest approachable guy. But he was, among other reasons for departing, homesick and unable to really get comfortable. So the thankful part for me is that I have been so incredibly comfortable and so well-adjusted to life in Uganda. Yes, I've missed friends and family and my boyfriend at home, but God has kept me focused on my present circumstances and busy with serving in a multitude of ways; I am very happy here.
OK, and then my biggest disappointment...I thought that stars would be amazing here. No/Little light pollution to prevent me from seeing the stars, but no, they are more majestic at my parent's house than here. I still look up in hopes that one night I'll be pleasantly surprised, but even on my safari in the middle of a huge national park the stars were still hiding.
OK, and then my biggest disappointment...I thought that stars would be amazing here. No/Little light pollution to prevent me from seeing the stars, but no, they are more majestic at my parent's house than here. I still look up in hopes that one night I'll be pleasantly surprised, but even on my safari in the middle of a huge national park the stars were still hiding.
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
My Every Day
So I don't know how I haven't given you this synopsis before, but here is my week in great brevity:
Sunday help bathe and dress the girls around 8, then get myself ready for church while they are eating breakfast and watching a Veggie Tales movie, church is from 10-12, have lunch and then it is rest time, which means free time, at 4 we play outside with balls, dolls, sand and buckets, puppets, or something similar. I try and always start our weekly Bible verse and story/topic for the week on Sunday just after bathing time at 5:45/6. Supper is at 7 and then we brush teeth and have devotions with the kids (praise time with the drums and singing and then a Bible story that is read in English and translated into Luganda).
Everyday from 4-8 pm is essentially the same, except everyday after Sunday we work on memorizing our verse and doing what they call "activities", aka the folders full of coloring opportunties for the kids, that correspond to the Bible verse/story for the week that Mom gave me!
Monday through Friday I help bathe, dress and feed the kids for school between 6:45 and 7:30, we leave for school usually by 7:30. The school is within walking distance so we hold hands and walk to school. Three of the smallest kids stay home and have learning objectives for each day. We usually let the little ones play until 9:30/10 so they get some energy out and can focus for a bit and I use that time to get myself ready for the day, eat breakfast, start laundry, or do some dishes.
Mondays and Thursdays we do outreach and typically leave the house by 9/9:30 (this is Uganda, so all scheduled times are subject to change) and get back Mondays around 5 or 6 and Thursdays around 2. Tuesdays and Fridays the mornings stay the same as previously mentioned but I continue with laundry, teach the kids their learning objectives, read to the little ones or help clean the house or sort through messy cabinets. The children aged 4 1/2 - 6 are picked up from school at 12:30, lunch is served at 1 and then it is rest time. Fridays are movie nights, its cute because sometimes you'll see them acting out the movie on Saturday during play time.
Wednesdays are my days off, I typically get up and go for a long walk by myself around the community, then get ready for the day and to go grocery shopping. We leave for the market at around 11, once the sweeping and mopping of the house is complete. I enjoy going shopping because its a chance to get out and maybe see something new or different; I've been quite adventurous in the market trying to bring a little bit of 'American' food home. Last week I bought black beans and broccoli! After shopping at the open market we go for grocery shopping and typically on our way home I depart from the group for some exploration of a shopping center, for lunch or the like, just a little 'me' time.
Saturdays we get the kids up around 8, bathe them, dress them and serve breakfast by 8:30 or 9, then the kids helping in the cleaning of the compound, some may sweep, some will clean out the outdoor trash cans (I'm not sure why I'm specifying outdoor trash cans, there aren't any trash cans inside the house, which is somewhat annoying but probably helps kep unwanted creatures at bay.), others might wash their toys or their outdoor play sandals. After cleaning they are free to play all morning. After lunch and rest time they usually play some more, do an activity, or watch an afternoon movie if its raining. After bathing, supper and devotions I've instituted game night on Saturdays, we're still wokring on getting the hang of it, but they enjoy it.
When the kids are in bed the adults do a nightly devotion led by one of us volunteers/ missionaries, but by 8:30/9 its our own time. So during the afternoon free/rest time and in the later evening I write my blogs, do my personal devotions, read, do my laundry, clean my room, or talk with the other missionaries. (We've recently really been bonding over Ellen DeGeneres' stand-up comedy, Joanna's obsession with Chipotle, and my title, Fat Lesbian Mama (of which, by the way, I am none of, it's just an inside joke with the other girls)). Often times during the daytime free time I continue the laundry, do the lunch dishes or just have to sit there waiting for one of the kids to get out of bed so I can go and get them back in bed.
And that my friends is what I do everyday. Devotions is by far my favorite time, no not because it means bed is coming soon, but the kids are so happy jumping, dancing and singing a myriad of praise songs, one child is chosen to pray and they pray for each child and auntie or uncle they can remember, then they listen so intently to their Bible story in both languages, sometimes they even become actors of the story (see photos of communion/the Last Supper below). After the story is finished and they've seen the picture corresponding to the story, another child is chosen to pray, and its a similar prayer to the first one. Then they all hug their aunties and uncles good-night and ask me to come and pray for them. After tsu-tsu (peeing) they get in beds and I tuck in their mosquito nets, I pray for them, we sing a quiet, bedtime song and remind them that it's time to sleep and not to talk or disrupt each other. Goodnight abanas (children)!
Sunday help bathe and dress the girls around 8, then get myself ready for church while they are eating breakfast and watching a Veggie Tales movie, church is from 10-12, have lunch and then it is rest time, which means free time, at 4 we play outside with balls, dolls, sand and buckets, puppets, or something similar. I try and always start our weekly Bible verse and story/topic for the week on Sunday just after bathing time at 5:45/6. Supper is at 7 and then we brush teeth and have devotions with the kids (praise time with the drums and singing and then a Bible story that is read in English and translated into Luganda).
Everyday from 4-8 pm is essentially the same, except everyday after Sunday we work on memorizing our verse and doing what they call "activities", aka the folders full of coloring opportunties for the kids, that correspond to the Bible verse/story for the week that Mom gave me!
Moses & the Ten Commandments (how cute is Jerom with his heart!)
Play time!
Monday through Friday I help bathe, dress and feed the kids for school between 6:45 and 7:30, we leave for school usually by 7:30. The school is within walking distance so we hold hands and walk to school. Three of the smallest kids stay home and have learning objectives for each day. We usually let the little ones play until 9:30/10 so they get some energy out and can focus for a bit and I use that time to get myself ready for the day, eat breakfast, start laundry, or do some dishes.
Mondays and Thursdays we do outreach and typically leave the house by 9/9:30 (this is Uganda, so all scheduled times are subject to change) and get back Mondays around 5 or 6 and Thursdays around 2. Tuesdays and Fridays the mornings stay the same as previously mentioned but I continue with laundry, teach the kids their learning objectives, read to the little ones or help clean the house or sort through messy cabinets. The children aged 4 1/2 - 6 are picked up from school at 12:30, lunch is served at 1 and then it is rest time. Fridays are movie nights, its cute because sometimes you'll see them acting out the movie on Saturday during play time.
Wednesdays are my days off, I typically get up and go for a long walk by myself around the community, then get ready for the day and to go grocery shopping. We leave for the market at around 11, once the sweeping and mopping of the house is complete. I enjoy going shopping because its a chance to get out and maybe see something new or different; I've been quite adventurous in the market trying to bring a little bit of 'American' food home. Last week I bought black beans and broccoli! After shopping at the open market we go for grocery shopping and typically on our way home I depart from the group for some exploration of a shopping center, for lunch or the like, just a little 'me' time.
Saturdays we get the kids up around 8, bathe them, dress them and serve breakfast by 8:30 or 9, then the kids helping in the cleaning of the compound, some may sweep, some will clean out the outdoor trash cans (I'm not sure why I'm specifying outdoor trash cans, there aren't any trash cans inside the house, which is somewhat annoying but probably helps kep unwanted creatures at bay.), others might wash their toys or their outdoor play sandals. After cleaning they are free to play all morning. After lunch and rest time they usually play some more, do an activity, or watch an afternoon movie if its raining. After bathing, supper and devotions I've instituted game night on Saturdays, we're still wokring on getting the hang of it, but they enjoy it.
When the kids are in bed the adults do a nightly devotion led by one of us volunteers/ missionaries, but by 8:30/9 its our own time. So during the afternoon free/rest time and in the later evening I write my blogs, do my personal devotions, read, do my laundry, clean my room, or talk with the other missionaries. (We've recently really been bonding over Ellen DeGeneres' stand-up comedy, Joanna's obsession with Chipotle, and my title, Fat Lesbian Mama (of which, by the way, I am none of, it's just an inside joke with the other girls)). Often times during the daytime free time I continue the laundry, do the lunch dishes or just have to sit there waiting for one of the kids to get out of bed so I can go and get them back in bed.
And that my friends is what I do everyday. Devotions is by far my favorite time, no not because it means bed is coming soon, but the kids are so happy jumping, dancing and singing a myriad of praise songs, one child is chosen to pray and they pray for each child and auntie or uncle they can remember, then they listen so intently to their Bible story in both languages, sometimes they even become actors of the story (see photos of communion/the Last Supper below). After the story is finished and they've seen the picture corresponding to the story, another child is chosen to pray, and its a similar prayer to the first one. Then they all hug their aunties and uncles good-night and ask me to come and pray for them. After tsu-tsu (peeing) they get in beds and I tuck in their mosquito nets, I pray for them, we sing a quiet, bedtime song and remind them that it's time to sleep and not to talk or disrupt each other. Goodnight abanas (children)!
Culture, Part 2
What has been really amazing, a real blessing, about my experience serving in Uganda, is that it hasn't been about constantly staying at the Rafiki Home and tending to the children and compound here, which still would have been great. We do two days of outreach weekly, which gives us opportunities to serve in other ways and to see other needs around Kampala (and by the way we get to see all of Kampala, I know my way around quite well!). I went on a safari, and last night we went to the Ndere Center to learn cultural dances and about instruments I've never seen before.
Even church is a cultural experience. The last two weeks the sermons have been cultural eye-openers. The head of Watoto Church (there are several campuses in Kampala and one in Gulu, a northern district) and then the regular pastor both spoke about Uganda, the Blessed Nation. I haven't found several of the sermons before these very fruitful, and even these last two weren't very spiritually fruitful, but they were culturally enriching! (Because Uganda celebrated the Jubilee the sermons have been geared to what Ugandans must overcome and the sermons have been very specific to Uganda, of course I've always gleaned something from them.) Yesterday's sermon Pastor Josh discussed why the Ugandan Culture needs to become a Jesus Culture, and his five main reasons were: the lack of respect of authority in homes, schools, streets, police, etc.; although the familial ties for cultural reasons to tribes is important, tribalism, where all is for and about the tribes, is combatant for God's dominance in their lives; the poor work ethic of Ugandans is very prevalent, a research study revealed that 1 Chinese person does the same work as 20 Ugandans, even 1 Kenyan can do the work of 4 Ugandans; the warped understanding of sexuality is the 4th reason Uganda needs to shift its culture, in the next 5 years Uganda will report 780,000 new cases of HIV; finally the level of corruption is just astounding, Uganda recently did improve from being 3rd in the world for their level of corruption as a nation to 5th, so at least there has been some improvement. Both pastors were urging the congregation to take personal responsibility and to be accountable for helping shift these stigmas.
Back to the Ndere Center... So we arrived by 6 to find our seats and grab a coke before the show started. It is an outdoor ampitheatre that serves food and beverages while you enjoy the 3.5 hour performance. There was an MC that explains where each dance is from, about the instruments and dances, and he also added a lot of random humor to the evening. I took a few notes, really just to make my mom smile (even those that know my mom are smiling right now, cause you know she would be doing the same thing), but only hearing these instruments and seeing the dances for yourself would really help you understand the feel of the evening. It was beyond enjoyable!
Today our cultural experience was further deepened by serving at both the Sanyu Babies Home and at A Perfect Injustice (API for short). Ok, well Sanyu was a bit of a stretch for me today... I changed the two most disgusting, poopiest, (ugh, yuck, etc), oh the most disgusting, diapers you could imagine. Then one naked baby excreted right in her high chair (shared by others, imagine a high chair stretched out for 6 babies to sit together) and then projectile vomited, one kid ate his own poop, and about 6 3-year-old boys got circumsized before we arrived and so they were in dresses with their little bloody penises hanging out. Oh today was an experience!! Before even going to Sanyu I bought 50 kg of beans (remember I said I was blessed with extra money that I am distributing by way of donation items through all the ministries I serve at?) for API. Do you know when I got there (ok, let me tell you carrying 50 kg of beans with the help of another guy, through the slums of Kampala is not easy) I found out their trailer had just been robbed and they had such a need!? God is awesome!
Despite having been hungry all day from fasting, having to deal with all the grossness at Sanyu, I had a great time at API with the street kids teaching them about following rules and playing a game with them. Even coming home I was so patient and happy to be with the kids to talk to them about Noah and God's promise, their lack of listening to my commands of sit down, fold your hands, keep quiet, etc. didn't even phase me. I had a great day! 10.22.12
Even church is a cultural experience. The last two weeks the sermons have been cultural eye-openers. The head of Watoto Church (there are several campuses in Kampala and one in Gulu, a northern district) and then the regular pastor both spoke about Uganda, the Blessed Nation. I haven't found several of the sermons before these very fruitful, and even these last two weren't very spiritually fruitful, but they were culturally enriching! (Because Uganda celebrated the Jubilee the sermons have been geared to what Ugandans must overcome and the sermons have been very specific to Uganda, of course I've always gleaned something from them.) Yesterday's sermon Pastor Josh discussed why the Ugandan Culture needs to become a Jesus Culture, and his five main reasons were: the lack of respect of authority in homes, schools, streets, police, etc.; although the familial ties for cultural reasons to tribes is important, tribalism, where all is for and about the tribes, is combatant for God's dominance in their lives; the poor work ethic of Ugandans is very prevalent, a research study revealed that 1 Chinese person does the same work as 20 Ugandans, even 1 Kenyan can do the work of 4 Ugandans; the warped understanding of sexuality is the 4th reason Uganda needs to shift its culture, in the next 5 years Uganda will report 780,000 new cases of HIV; finally the level of corruption is just astounding, Uganda recently did improve from being 3rd in the world for their level of corruption as a nation to 5th, so at least there has been some improvement. Both pastors were urging the congregation to take personal responsibility and to be accountable for helping shift these stigmas.
Back to the Ndere Center... So we arrived by 6 to find our seats and grab a coke before the show started. It is an outdoor ampitheatre that serves food and beverages while you enjoy the 3.5 hour performance. There was an MC that explains where each dance is from, about the instruments and dances, and he also added a lot of random humor to the evening. I took a few notes, really just to make my mom smile (even those that know my mom are smiling right now, cause you know she would be doing the same thing), but only hearing these instruments and seeing the dances for yourself would really help you understand the feel of the evening. It was beyond enjoyable!
Today our cultural experience was further deepened by serving at both the Sanyu Babies Home and at A Perfect Injustice (API for short). Ok, well Sanyu was a bit of a stretch for me today... I changed the two most disgusting, poopiest, (ugh, yuck, etc), oh the most disgusting, diapers you could imagine. Then one naked baby excreted right in her high chair (shared by others, imagine a high chair stretched out for 6 babies to sit together) and then projectile vomited, one kid ate his own poop, and about 6 3-year-old boys got circumsized before we arrived and so they were in dresses with their little bloody penises hanging out. Oh today was an experience!! Before even going to Sanyu I bought 50 kg of beans (remember I said I was blessed with extra money that I am distributing by way of donation items through all the ministries I serve at?) for API. Do you know when I got there (ok, let me tell you carrying 50 kg of beans with the help of another guy, through the slums of Kampala is not easy) I found out their trailer had just been robbed and they had such a need!? God is awesome!
Despite having been hungry all day from fasting, having to deal with all the grossness at Sanyu, I had a great time at API with the street kids teaching them about following rules and playing a game with them. Even coming home I was so patient and happy to be with the kids to talk to them about Noah and God's promise, their lack of listening to my commands of sit down, fold your hands, keep quiet, etc. didn't even phase me. I had a great day! 10.22.12
Sunday, October 21, 2012
Jealousy
I just led devotions on 1 Samuel chapters 18 & 19, the chapters are about Saul's jealousy and attempts to murder David. We discussed not only things that make us jealous and ways to overcome that feeling, but were thankful that we aren't very jealous people (those of us that were part of the discussion). Saul was not only jealous that David was getting so much praise for his military gains, but also, as king, Saul expected all the praise for himself; this was perhaps an attempt by God to humble Saul, one that obviously didn't work. In addition, we were happy to see two people defend David, not only to stand up to their father/king, but to say what was right. In an era so filled with thoughts of bullying, here's a good Biblical reminder of two people standing up for the smaller guy and for what was right, instead of for the mighty king.
By the way, I just realized that my Bible is turning 20 years old in December. Its a Study Bible I got at age 10! I have tried numerous Bibles since thinking perhaps it was time to retire the old one, but I just can't shake it, I love my Bible with its worn cover and notes in the margin from the 20th century!
By the way, I just realized that my Bible is turning 20 years old in December. Its a Study Bible I got at age 10! I have tried numerous Bibles since thinking perhaps it was time to retire the old one, but I just can't shake it, I love my Bible with its worn cover and notes in the margin from the 20th century!
Culture
Tonight the director, Joseph, and Esther, the administrator, and Sarah, a social worker at Rafiki, went with the volunteers (me and other Americans serving here) to Ndere Center, a cultural experience. It's nearly 11 so I'm tired but wanted to share some Ugandan culture with you and maybe will speak more of it tomorrow. Enjoy!
Friday, October 19, 2012
Gratitude
I love it when God gives you very obvious reasons to be thankful!
The water has been out for 24 hours, I think it is coming back or trying to, but we've had to wash dishes and bathe the kids in buckets after filling the jerry can with water from the rainwater tank and hauling it around. Carrying buckets of water is no easy task. It reminds me of a 6K I did last year to raise awareness that the average African woman walks 6K each day for clean water! Shout out to ComeUnity!
Then I also made posho (our lunch staple) today for everyone. You have to stand over the hot brickets while stirring flour and water together for about 15 minutes. I am way more grateful for Auntie Monica and the effort she puts in to cooking for me everyday!
I'm also thankful for the safe arrival of a new missionary, his name is James. He is a great addition to our team and a really sweet, honest, down-to-earth person.
Oh and I'm very thankful that both my desires to get dark and lose weight are finally coming to fruition! I won't be black anytime soon but I've got a good tan going on and my pants today are literally falling off, I've lost at least 10 pounds, hope I can keep losing more!
The grocery store and cafe, our secret delights of home: About once, ok sometimes twice, a week we walk to Quality Shops, a little westernized shopping plaza a mile or so from home, during the children's naptime to sit in a cafe or grocery shop for snacks.
The other girls drink coffee and I usually have a coke as we sit and chat in the cafe. Sometimes we splurge and eat lunch there, like chicken sandwiches, or a caprese sandwich, sometimes we snack on french fries! The manager and waitstaff know us and greet us all enthusiastically. They try so hard to do everything the way they do in an American or European cafe; at times it's endearing, other times it's just annoying.
The grocery store is beyond our grocery stores at home as it has another level of department store items like clothing, office supplies, kitchenware, children's toys, etc. Some days we just walk up and down every aisle to see what they have; I usually buy a bag of granola, a few bottles of coke, a snack of some type like a chocolate bar, and a can of tuna. (I found this huge sale on Brie cheese the other day, cheese here is super expensive, anyway, was sooo excited to not only eat cheese, but enjoy good cheese!)
My Ugandan experience is not living in a hut in a village, and I am very grateful for the city-life experience, it's definitely more my style! I do really appreciate these westernized conventions that make it more comfortable and make living here very easy.
I think I need to take some time to thank everyone that got me here. Whether you came to my bowling fundraiser in Philly, came to my surprise 30th birthday party in NY, answered my request letter, prayed over me, prayed for me, are praying for me, or gave because you heard from a friend that I was going and you wanted to support me...you are awesome! God wanted me here, I said yes to His calling, but you got me here financially and spiritually. Thank you, this is an experience of a lifetime, one that I won't let be a blip on my timeline, but an experience that impacts my life forever.
The water has been out for 24 hours, I think it is coming back or trying to, but we've had to wash dishes and bathe the kids in buckets after filling the jerry can with water from the rainwater tank and hauling it around. Carrying buckets of water is no easy task. It reminds me of a 6K I did last year to raise awareness that the average African woman walks 6K each day for clean water! Shout out to ComeUnity!
Then I also made posho (our lunch staple) today for everyone. You have to stand over the hot brickets while stirring flour and water together for about 15 minutes. I am way more grateful for Auntie Monica and the effort she puts in to cooking for me everyday!
I'm also thankful for the safe arrival of a new missionary, his name is James. He is a great addition to our team and a really sweet, honest, down-to-earth person.
Oh and I'm very thankful that both my desires to get dark and lose weight are finally coming to fruition! I won't be black anytime soon but I've got a good tan going on and my pants today are literally falling off, I've lost at least 10 pounds, hope I can keep losing more!
The grocery store and cafe, our secret delights of home: About once, ok sometimes twice, a week we walk to Quality Shops, a little westernized shopping plaza a mile or so from home, during the children's naptime to sit in a cafe or grocery shop for snacks.
The other girls drink coffee and I usually have a coke as we sit and chat in the cafe. Sometimes we splurge and eat lunch there, like chicken sandwiches, or a caprese sandwich, sometimes we snack on french fries! The manager and waitstaff know us and greet us all enthusiastically. They try so hard to do everything the way they do in an American or European cafe; at times it's endearing, other times it's just annoying.
The grocery store is beyond our grocery stores at home as it has another level of department store items like clothing, office supplies, kitchenware, children's toys, etc. Some days we just walk up and down every aisle to see what they have; I usually buy a bag of granola, a few bottles of coke, a snack of some type like a chocolate bar, and a can of tuna. (I found this huge sale on Brie cheese the other day, cheese here is super expensive, anyway, was sooo excited to not only eat cheese, but enjoy good cheese!)
My Ugandan experience is not living in a hut in a village, and I am very grateful for the city-life experience, it's definitely more my style! I do really appreciate these westernized conventions that make it more comfortable and make living here very easy.
I think I need to take some time to thank everyone that got me here. Whether you came to my bowling fundraiser in Philly, came to my surprise 30th birthday party in NY, answered my request letter, prayed over me, prayed for me, are praying for me, or gave because you heard from a friend that I was going and you wanted to support me...you are awesome! God wanted me here, I said yes to His calling, but you got me here financially and spiritually. Thank you, this is an experience of a lifetime, one that I won't let be a blip on my timeline, but an experience that impacts my life forever.
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Architecture
I can't believe it, but I'm actually missing architecture! It really is a complicated and varied profession that challenges me most days. Architecture requires you to be design oriented, good at mathematics, good at communication, good at coordination, good at managing; it requires you to think critically about many facets: zoning, civil engineering, structural requirements and demands from electricity, plumbing and mechanical ductwork. What other profession would have me involved in so many disciplines? Plus designing housing for those with MS has been extremely rewarding.
I was talking with a woman the other day and she told me how humbling it was that I left such a well-paid profession to gain no money and serve here, it was nice of her to say, but what she said was a common misconception, or maybe its just me, but I certainly don't get paid the big bucks. But then again, thats not why I do it; I wish I could earn a bit more, I even would say I deserve it, but I'm certainly able to provide for myself and am doing better than many. Over half the population of Uganda live on less than $1 per day and the average household income is less than $500/year!
I thought part of me was called here because I'm not sure what direction to take with my life, would my skills and talents be better served in another profession, maybe I just needed a break, or maybe He will reveal more to me and the direction my life needs to go in in due time. I've really been stepping up to the challenges of the book Not a Fan and surrendering areas of my life for Him to lead that I wouldn't have before, so with patience and an open ear, I will be directed, and I'm accepting that His direction might not come before I get home.
I was talking with a woman the other day and she told me how humbling it was that I left such a well-paid profession to gain no money and serve here, it was nice of her to say, but what she said was a common misconception, or maybe its just me, but I certainly don't get paid the big bucks. But then again, thats not why I do it; I wish I could earn a bit more, I even would say I deserve it, but I'm certainly able to provide for myself and am doing better than many. Over half the population of Uganda live on less than $1 per day and the average household income is less than $500/year!
I thought part of me was called here because I'm not sure what direction to take with my life, would my skills and talents be better served in another profession, maybe I just needed a break, or maybe He will reveal more to me and the direction my life needs to go in in due time. I've really been stepping up to the challenges of the book Not a Fan and surrendering areas of my life for Him to lead that I wouldn't have before, so with patience and an open ear, I will be directed, and I'm accepting that His direction might not come before I get home.
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Well, Oscar melted my heart again: Joel popped Fauziya's balloon (like most kids these kids go crazy for balloons), needless to say she was very upset, but Oscar walked up to her and gave his to her so she wouldn't be sad anymore. Unprompted, that kid is so sweet!
Today is my day off, we go shopping for food on my day off and I always go because its an opportunity to get out and see something new! I also wanted to purchase some items to take with us tomorrow. We are going to a special needs facility we went to the first week I was here. They don't have a plethera of resources so I bought buckets, a mop and broom and some cleaning products to take with us tomorrow, and want Rafiki to hold onto these supplies and we can use them whenever we go to a place that would do well by us supplying these items. (By me saying I bought them, that actually isn't true, the week before I left for Kampala I got more money than I needed to pay for my costs, so I have been able to buy items as necessary, for both Rafiki Africa Ministries and the other outreach projects we serve at, i.e. underwear that actually fits Emma's tiny bottom, cookies for the street ministry, buying pampers for the babies home, etc.)
In addition to going shopping for the ministry I got dropped off about 1 mile from an actual mall to enjoy some 'me' time. The mall was practically deserted (I am constantly amazed how on one side of the street there are shanties and then directly across the street is a westernized, wealthy mall, hello people, ever hear of zoning restrictions?! Ssorry architecture comment!). Anyway, rewind to before getting to the mall, the walk is actually on a paved surface, well today the sun must have been burning especially bright because the tar started sticking to my flip flops and then I'm suddenly walking over hay, so now I've got hay stuck to the tar which is stuck to the bottom of my shoes, and I'm about to walk in to a wealthy westernized mall. So what do I do but stop and talk to the security guard that verifies there are no bombs in your car (see previous posts) and wipe my shoes as best as possible. The mall was less enticing than I had hoped, quality is better than quantity. So after a somewhat disappointing lunch I called my boda-boda (motorcycle taxi), Matumba, to come and pick me up. I told him we needed to find a place for flip flops (there were none in the mall!) but as we headed there the rain began to fall, and it just hurt, so about 1 km from home we pulled over and ran in a roadside shop. What a blessing to stop there! I got to tell these two older women about our orphanage and the work we do and talk about Watoto with them (they go to a different Watoto church since there are 5 campuses in Kampala) and she had flip flops in her store! We sat with them for half an hour while the rain passed and then I continued home.
Since I'm talking about getting out and about, guess what I did?! I drove the van one day to the Quality shopping center (only about 2 or 3 km away). Opposite side of the car and opposite side of the road, and I did quite well! I felt so free to be able to drive!
So I've become ever interested in the dichotomy of the Old and New Testaments and so the other night I led devotions on Matthew 5:38 do not return an eye for an eye. Do you know there are three Old Testament references to returning an eye for an eye, and they get way more gruesome than that! Once Jesus comes on the scene and really helps us understand grace do so many of the Laws of the past go away. Those of you that like watching unsolved crimes and shows like CSI on TV check out what they had to do in the Old Testament in Deuteronomy 21 for un unresolved murder!
Last night Auntie Sara led devotions on Matthew 5: 13 Salt and Light. I always refer to people that leave a bad taste in your mouth as salty and then, based on previous blogs you know I don't cook with salt, so being the salt of the earth and not wanting to become unsalty seems like a difficult task for me, but from previous teachings on this, I do really understand the message!! And the light part of the message always brings me back to VBS "This Little Light of Mine"!
I don't know where the time has gone, but I am hafway through my time here, the last three weeks have literally flown by. My parents asked me the other day on Skype if I missed America. Well since I can't stand all the political ads and bammer thrown in your face all day ever day throughout October, absolutely not! But I can't wait to see all my dear friends and family, I do miss that about America, including this guy, Harry, my co-worker at Barton who comes in to help us shred paper, file, etc.! (By the way my answer is pineapple!)
Today is my day off, we go shopping for food on my day off and I always go because its an opportunity to get out and see something new! I also wanted to purchase some items to take with us tomorrow. We are going to a special needs facility we went to the first week I was here. They don't have a plethera of resources so I bought buckets, a mop and broom and some cleaning products to take with us tomorrow, and want Rafiki to hold onto these supplies and we can use them whenever we go to a place that would do well by us supplying these items. (By me saying I bought them, that actually isn't true, the week before I left for Kampala I got more money than I needed to pay for my costs, so I have been able to buy items as necessary, for both Rafiki Africa Ministries and the other outreach projects we serve at, i.e. underwear that actually fits Emma's tiny bottom, cookies for the street ministry, buying pampers for the babies home, etc.)
In addition to going shopping for the ministry I got dropped off about 1 mile from an actual mall to enjoy some 'me' time. The mall was practically deserted (I am constantly amazed how on one side of the street there are shanties and then directly across the street is a westernized, wealthy mall, hello people, ever hear of zoning restrictions?! Ssorry architecture comment!). Anyway, rewind to before getting to the mall, the walk is actually on a paved surface, well today the sun must have been burning especially bright because the tar started sticking to my flip flops and then I'm suddenly walking over hay, so now I've got hay stuck to the tar which is stuck to the bottom of my shoes, and I'm about to walk in to a wealthy westernized mall. So what do I do but stop and talk to the security guard that verifies there are no bombs in your car (see previous posts) and wipe my shoes as best as possible. The mall was less enticing than I had hoped, quality is better than quantity. So after a somewhat disappointing lunch I called my boda-boda (motorcycle taxi), Matumba, to come and pick me up. I told him we needed to find a place for flip flops (there were none in the mall!) but as we headed there the rain began to fall, and it just hurt, so about 1 km from home we pulled over and ran in a roadside shop. What a blessing to stop there! I got to tell these two older women about our orphanage and the work we do and talk about Watoto with them (they go to a different Watoto church since there are 5 campuses in Kampala) and she had flip flops in her store! We sat with them for half an hour while the rain passed and then I continued home.
Since I'm talking about getting out and about, guess what I did?! I drove the van one day to the Quality shopping center (only about 2 or 3 km away). Opposite side of the car and opposite side of the road, and I did quite well! I felt so free to be able to drive!
So I've become ever interested in the dichotomy of the Old and New Testaments and so the other night I led devotions on Matthew 5:38 do not return an eye for an eye. Do you know there are three Old Testament references to returning an eye for an eye, and they get way more gruesome than that! Once Jesus comes on the scene and really helps us understand grace do so many of the Laws of the past go away. Those of you that like watching unsolved crimes and shows like CSI on TV check out what they had to do in the Old Testament in Deuteronomy 21 for un unresolved murder!
Last night Auntie Sara led devotions on Matthew 5: 13 Salt and Light. I always refer to people that leave a bad taste in your mouth as salty and then, based on previous blogs you know I don't cook with salt, so being the salt of the earth and not wanting to become unsalty seems like a difficult task for me, but from previous teachings on this, I do really understand the message!! And the light part of the message always brings me back to VBS "This Little Light of Mine"!
I don't know where the time has gone, but I am hafway through my time here, the last three weeks have literally flown by. My parents asked me the other day on Skype if I missed America. Well since I can't stand all the political ads and bammer thrown in your face all day ever day throughout October, absolutely not! But I can't wait to see all my dear friends and family, I do miss that about America, including this guy, Harry, my co-worker at Barton who comes in to help us shred paper, file, etc.! (By the way my answer is pineapple!)
And since I talked so much about shopping and political ads, I found this advertisement hilarious!!
Monday, October 15, 2012
A Gift and a Sacrifice
When the other missionaries and I get a shower that is both hot and with a decent amount of pressure, we tell each other, "Jesus gave me a gift". Tonight, Jesus gave me a gift and it was so lovely! It seems like not much, but when you've had four cold showers in a row it is so amazing.
Today we served at a different babies home than previously, its called Nsambya (pronounced Zambia). We folded so many little kids clothes, played with the one year olds and bathed them, then fed them and put them down for a nap, washed their lunch dishes and headed home.
Today was the third time I've fasted from 9-5, I started doing it two weeks ago whenever we go to serve at another outreach project outside our ministry. I'm hoping that my hunger reminds me of how hungry the babies are for love and how hungry the street kids are for food and shelter. I certainly am starving by 5, I typically get a headache and am exhausted from the lack of food energy. I plan to stick with this program until I leave and then want to continue it whenever I serve back home.
Two nights ago one of the managers explained the roles of the staff and the roles of the missionaries so clearly, it made me feel even more convicted about why I am here: to serve others and love on these chuildren. The staff gets paid to bathe the children, feed them, teach them, and generally provide for their needs, but they really rely on the missionaries to give these children the love that they crave. This doesn't mean that the staff don't love the children its just that it is their job and they get the money to be here, its not a greater sacrifice for them like it is for us. A few family members came this past weekend to see the children (grandmothers, uncles and one boy's mom) and they are so thankful that we care for their children and love them to pieces. I really do, I think I kiss and hug each child at least 3 times every day, and the little ones get a lot more love since they are home all day! That is at least 72 hugs and kisses a week, that means by the time I leave I will have given and received 864 hugs and kisses!
Today we served at a different babies home than previously, its called Nsambya (pronounced Zambia). We folded so many little kids clothes, played with the one year olds and bathed them, then fed them and put them down for a nap, washed their lunch dishes and headed home.
Today was the third time I've fasted from 9-5, I started doing it two weeks ago whenever we go to serve at another outreach project outside our ministry. I'm hoping that my hunger reminds me of how hungry the babies are for love and how hungry the street kids are for food and shelter. I certainly am starving by 5, I typically get a headache and am exhausted from the lack of food energy. I plan to stick with this program until I leave and then want to continue it whenever I serve back home.
Two nights ago one of the managers explained the roles of the staff and the roles of the missionaries so clearly, it made me feel even more convicted about why I am here: to serve others and love on these chuildren. The staff gets paid to bathe the children, feed them, teach them, and generally provide for their needs, but they really rely on the missionaries to give these children the love that they crave. This doesn't mean that the staff don't love the children its just that it is their job and they get the money to be here, its not a greater sacrifice for them like it is for us. A few family members came this past weekend to see the children (grandmothers, uncles and one boy's mom) and they are so thankful that we care for their children and love them to pieces. I really do, I think I kiss and hug each child at least 3 times every day, and the little ones get a lot more love since they are home all day! That is at least 72 hugs and kisses a week, that means by the time I leave I will have given and received 864 hugs and kisses!
Sunday, October 14, 2012
Losses
Last night it rained hard, the rainy season I think has officially begun. Here they always refer to the rain as blessing, how often Americans look at it with negative connotations. And look at me...This rain brought with it two unwanted things: allergies for me and tons of moths that died within minutes of the rain stopping. Seriously, they all just started getting close to the ground and then shaking a bit and then dead, isn't creation amazing sometimes?! I seriously have 10 dead moths in my bathroom, ew!
Yesterday the Ugandan Cranes (soccer) lost to Zambia. It was a sad blow to the excited Crane fans who celebrated their 50 years of independence this week, hopeful that not only the soccer team but the nation would turn around. I couldn't quite figure out the loss myself. We were the only ones to have scored by the end of the game, but then suddenly they are taking penalty shots for a tie-breaker. No, I didn't miss anything in the action...I've been told that Zambia won a game between the two teams last month and so the penalty shots were the tie-breaker. The loss was a heartbreaker. I'm not a huge soccer fan, but watching the usual calm demeanor of Auntie Monica broken with jumps of joy and excitement at the score of a goal, I was sad for my friends.
With great sadness today I sat with the manager of Rafiki and our little boy Cocus and told him that his dad had died. I cried more than Cocus did. After I told him in English, very briefly, Auntie Esther explained it in Luganda, just to be sure nothing was lost in translation. His eyes got red, but he never shed a tear. We prayed for Cocus' courage and his heart and we prayed for his Dad. Cocus didn't want to look at us, but just wanted to leave, understandably. So I offered that he could go to his bed, color with me, or go outside and play. He decided to shade with me, so we colored cars, talked about our favorite colors and I reassured him that if he wanted to talk about it he could but if he didn't that was fine too. I pray that his heart recovers well and that his lack of tears just means he knows he still has lots of people that love him.
In other news about losses...the kids got their heads shaved yesterday. The boys and girls (less Carol) all have bald heads. I've pondered doing it myself, but I don't think I'd carry it as well as them!
On a much brighter note, Esther came to me yesterday morning and told me that she had a beautiful dream that we were all in heaven and we were all beautiful angels floating, flying and dancing around. How precious is that?
Yesterday the Ugandan Cranes (soccer) lost to Zambia. It was a sad blow to the excited Crane fans who celebrated their 50 years of independence this week, hopeful that not only the soccer team but the nation would turn around. I couldn't quite figure out the loss myself. We were the only ones to have scored by the end of the game, but then suddenly they are taking penalty shots for a tie-breaker. No, I didn't miss anything in the action...I've been told that Zambia won a game between the two teams last month and so the penalty shots were the tie-breaker. The loss was a heartbreaker. I'm not a huge soccer fan, but watching the usual calm demeanor of Auntie Monica broken with jumps of joy and excitement at the score of a goal, I was sad for my friends.
With great sadness today I sat with the manager of Rafiki and our little boy Cocus and told him that his dad had died. I cried more than Cocus did. After I told him in English, very briefly, Auntie Esther explained it in Luganda, just to be sure nothing was lost in translation. His eyes got red, but he never shed a tear. We prayed for Cocus' courage and his heart and we prayed for his Dad. Cocus didn't want to look at us, but just wanted to leave, understandably. So I offered that he could go to his bed, color with me, or go outside and play. He decided to shade with me, so we colored cars, talked about our favorite colors and I reassured him that if he wanted to talk about it he could but if he didn't that was fine too. I pray that his heart recovers well and that his lack of tears just means he knows he still has lots of people that love him.
In other news about losses...the kids got their heads shaved yesterday. The boys and girls (less Carol) all have bald heads. I've pondered doing it myself, but I don't think I'd carry it as well as them!
On a much brighter note, Esther came to me yesterday morning and told me that she had a beautiful dream that we were all in heaven and we were all beautiful angels floating, flying and dancing around. How precious is that?
Friday, October 12, 2012
Random blogging
Today Joanna, another missionary, and I tackled the underwear and sock drawers for both the boys and girls and then the boys wardrobe...what a mess. Jerom came home and thanked us for cleaning his clothes, he loves helping fold clothes and perhaps is maybe a little OCD and so would be the only 4 1/2 year old to appreciate it!
It rained a lot today, actually it seems to be raining a lot the past week. Since slipping on the steps last week, when the rain looks threatening I grab what I want from my room and hunker down in the house. My back by the way is improving, I'm moving better, getting down to the floor is a feat, but I can do it. Actually I'm about to email a physical therapist that is volunteering at a nearby site we do outreach at; she said she was willing to take a look at me and make sure despite what the x-rays said that I'll be ok and maybe add some stretching exercises to my routine.
Have you ever listened to Hillsong United? They are a fabulous praise band that at home I can be found singing at the top of my lungs driving down the street to, windows down and arms raised in praise, they are that great! (Listening to them now.)
I made jello today to celebrate Uncle Godfrey's birthday, none of the Ugandans, kids and adults alike, had ever had anything like it. Honestly, I think they were a little unsure at first, but they all seemed to enjoy it once they got over their initial skepticism.
I also spent some decent amount of time today compiling a list of devotional topics I want to discuss for my next couple times of leading. Ever since taking part in a church-wide initiative to complete a program called E-100 (essential 100 Bible passages; 50 Old, 50 New), I've had a better appreciation for the Old Testament. I still find the judicial, Law-driving text difficult sometimes, but it also has made me more thankful for Jesus and the New Testament and the promises found in Him/it! I'm looking forward to sharing some of the discussions with you.
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Others, Lord, yes others!!
As I was praying last night I realized that hello, Laura, the purpose of your visit might not be to affect your life, but instead the whole point is about others; serving others, loving others, guiding and directing others. Its about loving on abandoned children at Rafiki and at the other places you serve at, its about giving all the workers a break from having to sweep and mop one day or from having to do 5 loads of laundry. Its about holding an orphaned baby and tenderly feeding it a bottle, its about teaching street kids about the love of Jesus. Its about helping the staff and other missionaries at Rafiki in their journey. Its about teaching some kids how to tell time, or about The Butterfly Song, or helping Auntie Monica peel potatoes, or even reaching readers of my blog to re-assess their faith and commitment to Him.
I love all the service I do at home through 5th Sunday, the program I help lead at my church, and feeding my leftovers in center city Philly to the homeless, or designing a home for Habitat for Humanity, so why wouldn't God bless me with 3 months of constant service to others so I can enjoy it without other distractions of work, friends and family. This mission is not about me and how I change, but about others!
Speaking of others... you also probably want to hear more about the children:
After school and rest time today it immediately started raining which meant no playtime outside, which typically means we've got kids with way too much energy on our hands. But luckily it didn't seem that way, after folding their clothes and putting them away (I know 5 year olds folding their clothes!!) they listened attentively through two books, then sat in a circle and went one by one telling me their favorite baby animals, and then, they did the cutest thing (and I wished I had my camera to capture it) but 12 kids put their feet towards the middle of the circle said one to three and fell back kicking their cute little feet in the air. After some serious and focused coloring I let them have a movie, a treat, because I rarely let them watch movies when I'm running the show because I'd rather be stimulating them in some way like reading books, playing games, etc.
A couple of cute things happened with some of the children recently:
I'm teaching Emma to dress himself and how to pee properly, he usually ends up with pee on his clothes, but while he's putting on his final article of clothing I start to walk away and he pleads, "Wait for me, wait for me please?" How could I not!!?!!
Esther was in a deep sleep during rest time and all the kids were called to get up but she was so sleepy she slept through and then was rudely awakened by the kids putting their clothes away, she stumbled up and couldn't do anything but stand there, so we had a lovely cuddle while she woke up. Jerom was the same on Tuesday, I love cuddling them.
Carol is the only child with any amount of hair and two of the aunties took it out of twists the other day and now she has a mini-fro, I love it!
Joel came home from school and told me he's learning how to tell time at school, guess I was a week ahead of the curve on that one, I'm glad he's got that mastered, he's such a perfectionist it takes forever to get through homework!
All the kids stood up one by one today to tell a story, and they start them always with 'Once upon a time' and then everybody repeats 'time, time, time', Oscar's stories have all been about Moses the past two weeks, I'm glad he learned it so well.
Fauziya is the eldest girl and she is certainly blossoming into quite the helper, don't get me wrong, she definitely can be an instigator as well, but I love it when she comforts a child or offers to help. Her and Annet even helped peel potatoes the other day!
When I first came only the 3 youngest would respond to you telling them that you loved them with 'I love you', now about 3/4 of them do it...they are getting it, they are loved!
I love all the service I do at home through 5th Sunday, the program I help lead at my church, and feeding my leftovers in center city Philly to the homeless, or designing a home for Habitat for Humanity, so why wouldn't God bless me with 3 months of constant service to others so I can enjoy it without other distractions of work, friends and family. This mission is not about me and how I change, but about others!
Speaking of others... you also probably want to hear more about the children:
After school and rest time today it immediately started raining which meant no playtime outside, which typically means we've got kids with way too much energy on our hands. But luckily it didn't seem that way, after folding their clothes and putting them away (I know 5 year olds folding their clothes!!) they listened attentively through two books, then sat in a circle and went one by one telling me their favorite baby animals, and then, they did the cutest thing (and I wished I had my camera to capture it) but 12 kids put their feet towards the middle of the circle said one to three and fell back kicking their cute little feet in the air. After some serious and focused coloring I let them have a movie, a treat, because I rarely let them watch movies when I'm running the show because I'd rather be stimulating them in some way like reading books, playing games, etc.
A couple of cute things happened with some of the children recently:
I'm teaching Emma to dress himself and how to pee properly, he usually ends up with pee on his clothes, but while he's putting on his final article of clothing I start to walk away and he pleads, "Wait for me, wait for me please?" How could I not!!?!!
Esther was in a deep sleep during rest time and all the kids were called to get up but she was so sleepy she slept through and then was rudely awakened by the kids putting their clothes away, she stumbled up and couldn't do anything but stand there, so we had a lovely cuddle while she woke up. Jerom was the same on Tuesday, I love cuddling them.
Carol is the only child with any amount of hair and two of the aunties took it out of twists the other day and now she has a mini-fro, I love it!
Joel came home from school and told me he's learning how to tell time at school, guess I was a week ahead of the curve on that one, I'm glad he's got that mastered, he's such a perfectionist it takes forever to get through homework!
All the kids stood up one by one today to tell a story, and they start them always with 'Once upon a time' and then everybody repeats 'time, time, time', Oscar's stories have all been about Moses the past two weeks, I'm glad he learned it so well.
Fauziya is the eldest girl and she is certainly blossoming into quite the helper, don't get me wrong, she definitely can be an instigator as well, but I love it when she comforts a child or offers to help. Her and Annet even helped peel potatoes the other day!
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Purpose & Other Deep Things
I have been struggling recently with a few things:
1. I haven't figured out my purpose here.
2. I haven't had a deep conversation in 6 weeks (aka since I arrived).
3. The things that I struggle with here, are the same things I struggle with at home, but so many of the same pressures are gone, so what gives? I've also been feeling spiritually stagnant, despite some very concerted effort.
So, yesterday and today, I've been pondering, praying and searching. And through the help of some friends, family, a little bit of a written rant and some Bible reading I've discovered some peace.
1. My cousin Andrea helped me realize that my purpose might not be realized here (or perhaps it just hasn't happened yet, or moreover, maybe God is going to wait a really long time to reveal it); she noted that wouldn't it be great if this experience wasn't just a blip in my timeline, but something much greater. That's what I'm hoping for, and also what I was grateful to hear!
2. I actively pursued some deep conversations with one of the missionaries here, and then got a few long emails (and some photos) from great friends that I've missed having deep conversations with, and felt better connected and was able to analyze the other struggles plaguing me. Thanks to some of my ladies!
3. So today I realized that just because your daily routine isn't the same, doesn't mean that your character changes, and the way you analyze things, systems or people doesn't change either. Also, Rome wasn't built in a day. In the same way God probably isn't going to be able to move or change my heart in a few short months, at least not completely, especially if I don't surrender all. I might be reading two spiritually driving books, doing a morning devotion, an evening devotion and reading a chapter of the Bible every night, but am I surrendering all to Him, or am I giving Him bits and pieces of my life (thank you to Kyle Idleman, Not a Fan) to work on?
What also helped with both my deep conversation issue and the way I am (item 3) was the devotion I led this evening. I started by reading the story of Mary & Martha found in Luke 10 and asked everyone who they were. Interestingly enough all the Ugandans characterized themselves as Mary and all the Americans were decidedly Martha. I think this plays to the notion that the Ugandan timetable is non-functioning (not meant to offend you my Ugandan friends) and instead Ugandans spend all the time needed visiting or engaging with friends or family, instead of rushing to the next event. Whereas Americans are often on a timetable, have a meeting to prepare for and then the next place to be, we often times miss the opportunity to either hear God, or even relate to one another. Are you constantly doing work to lessen your time with God?
I also looked at the Mary/Martha story as a personality trait of are you the one doing the work and preparing or are you the one engaging or entertaining, which led me to Matthew 25 and The Parable of the Talents. Now in this instance talents was actually money, but if you think about it more as skill-like talents and begin understanding the idea of sowing your talents, constantly growing them, then how much more can you do for His kingdom? One missionary was able to see her talents but because she wasn't done schooling didn't consider that she could be using these talents already.
By asking everyone to answer a few simple questions about themselves and asking them to write their answers so we could discuss them, our typical 15 minute Bible study became at least 45 minutes, and our conversation and understanding of eachother that much deeper.
Another interesting dichotomy also emerged between the Ugandans and Americans when discussing their talents. The Ugandans saw themselves as very talented, and included their personalities in their assessments, whereas the Americans found it harder to find any talents. This is in line with the way Ugandans offer prayer requests, because they always start with, 'First I want to thank God for my life', or something similar; it's always in gratitude for all God has given them, whereas us Americans just ask for our prayer requests. So with such a grateful attitude wouldn't they see all their blessings, and God-given talents much easier than me?
I haven't figured it all out, but at least I'm going to sleep tonight with a little more peace.
1. I haven't figured out my purpose here.
2. I haven't had a deep conversation in 6 weeks (aka since I arrived).
3. The things that I struggle with here, are the same things I struggle with at home, but so many of the same pressures are gone, so what gives? I've also been feeling spiritually stagnant, despite some very concerted effort.
So, yesterday and today, I've been pondering, praying and searching. And through the help of some friends, family, a little bit of a written rant and some Bible reading I've discovered some peace.
1. My cousin Andrea helped me realize that my purpose might not be realized here (or perhaps it just hasn't happened yet, or moreover, maybe God is going to wait a really long time to reveal it); she noted that wouldn't it be great if this experience wasn't just a blip in my timeline, but something much greater. That's what I'm hoping for, and also what I was grateful to hear!
2. I actively pursued some deep conversations with one of the missionaries here, and then got a few long emails (and some photos) from great friends that I've missed having deep conversations with, and felt better connected and was able to analyze the other struggles plaguing me. Thanks to some of my ladies!
3. So today I realized that just because your daily routine isn't the same, doesn't mean that your character changes, and the way you analyze things, systems or people doesn't change either. Also, Rome wasn't built in a day. In the same way God probably isn't going to be able to move or change my heart in a few short months, at least not completely, especially if I don't surrender all. I might be reading two spiritually driving books, doing a morning devotion, an evening devotion and reading a chapter of the Bible every night, but am I surrendering all to Him, or am I giving Him bits and pieces of my life (thank you to Kyle Idleman, Not a Fan) to work on?
What also helped with both my deep conversation issue and the way I am (item 3) was the devotion I led this evening. I started by reading the story of Mary & Martha found in Luke 10 and asked everyone who they were. Interestingly enough all the Ugandans characterized themselves as Mary and all the Americans were decidedly Martha. I think this plays to the notion that the Ugandan timetable is non-functioning (not meant to offend you my Ugandan friends) and instead Ugandans spend all the time needed visiting or engaging with friends or family, instead of rushing to the next event. Whereas Americans are often on a timetable, have a meeting to prepare for and then the next place to be, we often times miss the opportunity to either hear God, or even relate to one another. Are you constantly doing work to lessen your time with God?
I also looked at the Mary/Martha story as a personality trait of are you the one doing the work and preparing or are you the one engaging or entertaining, which led me to Matthew 25 and The Parable of the Talents. Now in this instance talents was actually money, but if you think about it more as skill-like talents and begin understanding the idea of sowing your talents, constantly growing them, then how much more can you do for His kingdom? One missionary was able to see her talents but because she wasn't done schooling didn't consider that she could be using these talents already.
By asking everyone to answer a few simple questions about themselves and asking them to write their answers so we could discuss them, our typical 15 minute Bible study became at least 45 minutes, and our conversation and understanding of eachother that much deeper.
Another interesting dichotomy also emerged between the Ugandans and Americans when discussing their talents. The Ugandans saw themselves as very talented, and included their personalities in their assessments, whereas the Americans found it harder to find any talents. This is in line with the way Ugandans offer prayer requests, because they always start with, 'First I want to thank God for my life', or something similar; it's always in gratitude for all God has given them, whereas us Americans just ask for our prayer requests. So with such a grateful attitude wouldn't they see all their blessings, and God-given talents much easier than me?
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
50 years Uganda!
Happy Birthday Uganda!! Happy Anniversay Uganda! Today is the Golden Jubilee!
Today Uganda celebrates 50 years of independence from Britain. They certainly haven't all been wonderful, prosperous years. I've mentioned some of this before, the unemployment rate is nearly 80%, Idi Amin ruled for 8 years destroying so much, the infant mortality rate is 54:1000, over 800,000 extra-judicial killings, and many country people are still peasant farmers earning nothing besides potatoes and a few Ugandan shillings. A quote from a New Vision (newspaper) journalist, Arthur Kusini, reads, "If only our people could add hygiene, nutrition and disciplined behavior in sexual matters, we would eliminate 80% of all sicknesses." But there is still much to be thankful for, and much to look forward to and that is what is great about Ugandans, they are always thankful and excited! And according to statistics, since 1986 Uganda's economy has grown by 13-fold; that is much to be grateful for.
The kids were home from school today so after getting them up a bit late, and playing this morning, I made a Ugandan flag with each child and taught them that the red represents brotherhood, yellow represents sunshine and black represents Africa.
We had a special lunch of chips (french fries) and fried chicken with a tomato/cucumber/carrot salad. We made cupcakes for everyone, and attempted to make them red, but pink was as good as it got! Happy Birthday Uganda!
Today Uganda celebrates 50 years of independence from Britain. They certainly haven't all been wonderful, prosperous years. I've mentioned some of this before, the unemployment rate is nearly 80%, Idi Amin ruled for 8 years destroying so much, the infant mortality rate is 54:1000, over 800,000 extra-judicial killings, and many country people are still peasant farmers earning nothing besides potatoes and a few Ugandan shillings. A quote from a New Vision (newspaper) journalist, Arthur Kusini, reads, "If only our people could add hygiene, nutrition and disciplined behavior in sexual matters, we would eliminate 80% of all sicknesses." But there is still much to be thankful for, and much to look forward to and that is what is great about Ugandans, they are always thankful and excited! And according to statistics, since 1986 Uganda's economy has grown by 13-fold; that is much to be grateful for.
The kids were home from school today so after getting them up a bit late, and playing this morning, I made a Ugandan flag with each child and taught them that the red represents brotherhood, yellow represents sunshine and black represents Africa.
We had a special lunch of chips (french fries) and fried chicken with a tomato/cucumber/carrot salad. We made cupcakes for everyone, and attempted to make them red, but pink was as good as it got! Happy Birthday Uganda!
Sunday, October 7, 2012
Jubilee!
Tuesday Uganda will celebrate 50 years of independence from Britain! They are calling it the Jubilee and everyone is really excited, the kids will be home from school and we're going to make them cupcakes!
This morning at church they had a huge celebration. They asked everybody to come in traditional Ugandan attire, I did not purchase any, but was adorned in all black with red accents, and considered my skin to be yellow (red, yellow and black are the colors of the ugandan flag). We sang songs in Luganda, the native tongue, as well as English. In Uganda, they don't just sing, but they dance, shout, sing, praise, sound trumpets, and jump up and down. It was quite an exciting experience. The church also honored anybody over the age of 50, only 20 people stood on stage in a church filled with over 1000; speaks volumes to the national average age being 15! A 74 year old woman was the oldest and so she got a bit of an interview and then a rowdy applause, 74 is quite a feat!! I hope you enjoy some photos of this morning's service.
I also wanted to ask you all to pray for me and Uncle Joseph tomorrow. We are driving to a town called Mukano and getting as much information about a 4 year old girl, taking her for HIV testing, getting her immunizations and hopefully bringing her home to Rafiki tomorrow!!!
I thought at first we were just going to meet her and find out about her history, etc., but then this afternoon Joseph told me that we should be bringing her home tomorrow! Tears filled my eyes at the thought of bringing this little girl home; after losing her parents, to be able to bring her into a fun, loving, Christ-centered environment where she can grow, prosper and be full of joy. Please pray that all goes well tomorrow and that this little girl will adjust well if we have the opportunity to bring her to Rafiki!
This morning at church they had a huge celebration. They asked everybody to come in traditional Ugandan attire, I did not purchase any, but was adorned in all black with red accents, and considered my skin to be yellow (red, yellow and black are the colors of the ugandan flag). We sang songs in Luganda, the native tongue, as well as English. In Uganda, they don't just sing, but they dance, shout, sing, praise, sound trumpets, and jump up and down. It was quite an exciting experience. The church also honored anybody over the age of 50, only 20 people stood on stage in a church filled with over 1000; speaks volumes to the national average age being 15! A 74 year old woman was the oldest and so she got a bit of an interview and then a rowdy applause, 74 is quite a feat!! I hope you enjoy some photos of this morning's service.
I also wanted to ask you all to pray for me and Uncle Joseph tomorrow. We are driving to a town called Mukano and getting as much information about a 4 year old girl, taking her for HIV testing, getting her immunizations and hopefully bringing her home to Rafiki tomorrow!!!
I thought at first we were just going to meet her and find out about her history, etc., but then this afternoon Joseph told me that we should be bringing her home tomorrow! Tears filled my eyes at the thought of bringing this little girl home; after losing her parents, to be able to bring her into a fun, loving, Christ-centered environment where she can grow, prosper and be full of joy. Please pray that all goes well tomorrow and that this little girl will adjust well if we have the opportunity to bring her to Rafiki!
Saturday, October 6, 2012
A bit of everything
Sorry, this is going to be a bit of everything...
The other night I was lying on my back in my room to do some ab work and what is up on my ceiling but 3 lizards; its a bit harder to fall asleep when you see mice, coockroaches and lizards in your living space close to bedtime! I do partially blame myself for the lizards in my room, I never close the door to my room and as soon as I walk out the door I am outside, what do they know if its inside or out!
So about 10 minutes after I posted my blog yesterday I was going to return my computer upstairs before the kids got up from their rest time. It had been raining outside and as I approached the step I reminded myself to be careful on the very slippery steps. (I've already skidded a few times!) The stairs certainly wouldn't comply with ANSI A117.1, which is the governing handicapped accessible code in the US, because of the lack of an abrasive surface. But despite my reminder...boom, I was flat on my back, well not exactly flat cause they were stairs. (Luckily the computer sustained no damage!)
One hospital visit later to make sure nothing in my hips or tailbone were permanently damaged, I am a walking sore disaster. You ever hear that saying when someone complains about their pain, for instance in their arm, and then you say want me to punch the other one so that will stop hurting? Well, the pain that I had in my back before doesn't hurt anymore, but it could be because the other new pain is just much greater. Please don't have much pity for clumsy old me, I only went to the hospital because it cost me $22 to be consulted and examined, $18 for several x-rays and $5 for some medicated deep heat rub, and now I know there is nothing really wrong with all this pain I've been having in my back, new and old.
I had great reservations about going to the hospital. My pride being one of them, my pain is so little compared to what others endure, and is it really that bad or am I just not being tough?! Even as we drove home I see this man walking with a huge limp in his gait and think, what am I going to see the doctor about?! So I'm sore and walking funny, but this too shall pass. A little prayer for healing would be much appreciated. Guess what I'm doing on Wednesday again? Hello $8 massage!!
I was reading an article in the newspaper last week about electricty per capita in Uganda and they compared the figure to that of the rest of Africa on average, and to the US. Well, its no wonder Uganda has constant power outages...the per capita kilowatt hours of available electricity for Uganda is 75 kwh, the average for all of Africa is 798 kwh, and the average in the US is 2645 kwh! (My figures are not exactly correct because I don't have the article anymore, but they are within a few kwh!). By the way, power has been pretty good the last week or so (knock on wood).
Today we finished up learning about Moses and we made a book about all we learned. I made a quick cover page and then wrote at the top of each of 12 pages a different part of Moses' life and then the kids drew on them and then signed the last page of the book, it looks really cute, I can't wait to read them the finished product tomorrow!
We also instituted game night tonight, shout out to my mom who always played games with me, it helps you learn so much! The littlest ones played Candy Land, the middle ones played Memory/Matching, and then we played Alphabet Bingo with the biggest kids, it went quite well for doing this for the first time. Hopefully it can become a Saturday night ritual since Friday night is movie night (when the power is on!).
I led devotions tonight on Romans 14. I've been reading Romans, one chapter a night and tonight I'll finish the book. I really enjoyed Romans 14 because it discusses strong and weak characters. In verse 13 it reads, "Therefore let us stop passing judgement on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother's way." And then in verse 17 it says, "For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.". Go ahead and pick the old Bible up, its got plenty of wisdom in it!
Last week we learned about Creation. On the 5th day God created the birds of the air and the fish of the sea. I've been collecting toilet paper rolls, to not only save them from the trash, but also to do something creative with them. Well, Auntie Jo and I looked up some creative ideas on Pinterest and boom, we made some octopuses with the kids and hung them on the chalk board.
I've also been working with the two oldest kids to learn how to tell time...we're almost there in one week!! I'm so excited to be able to teach them something practical. Ironically enough I've been told that Ugandans use a different time table (hence their lack of timeliness probably); they use only 12 hours, sun up to sun down, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. For instance, they'll say they are coming by at 2, which means 9 a.m., because it is 2 hours after sun up...oy vay, someone else is going to have to work on that with them!
The other night I was lying on my back in my room to do some ab work and what is up on my ceiling but 3 lizards; its a bit harder to fall asleep when you see mice, coockroaches and lizards in your living space close to bedtime! I do partially blame myself for the lizards in my room, I never close the door to my room and as soon as I walk out the door I am outside, what do they know if its inside or out!
So about 10 minutes after I posted my blog yesterday I was going to return my computer upstairs before the kids got up from their rest time. It had been raining outside and as I approached the step I reminded myself to be careful on the very slippery steps. (I've already skidded a few times!) The stairs certainly wouldn't comply with ANSI A117.1, which is the governing handicapped accessible code in the US, because of the lack of an abrasive surface. But despite my reminder...boom, I was flat on my back, well not exactly flat cause they were stairs. (Luckily the computer sustained no damage!)
One hospital visit later to make sure nothing in my hips or tailbone were permanently damaged, I am a walking sore disaster. You ever hear that saying when someone complains about their pain, for instance in their arm, and then you say want me to punch the other one so that will stop hurting? Well, the pain that I had in my back before doesn't hurt anymore, but it could be because the other new pain is just much greater. Please don't have much pity for clumsy old me, I only went to the hospital because it cost me $22 to be consulted and examined, $18 for several x-rays and $5 for some medicated deep heat rub, and now I know there is nothing really wrong with all this pain I've been having in my back, new and old.
I had great reservations about going to the hospital. My pride being one of them, my pain is so little compared to what others endure, and is it really that bad or am I just not being tough?! Even as we drove home I see this man walking with a huge limp in his gait and think, what am I going to see the doctor about?! So I'm sore and walking funny, but this too shall pass. A little prayer for healing would be much appreciated. Guess what I'm doing on Wednesday again? Hello $8 massage!!
I was reading an article in the newspaper last week about electricty per capita in Uganda and they compared the figure to that of the rest of Africa on average, and to the US. Well, its no wonder Uganda has constant power outages...the per capita kilowatt hours of available electricity for Uganda is 75 kwh, the average for all of Africa is 798 kwh, and the average in the US is 2645 kwh! (My figures are not exactly correct because I don't have the article anymore, but they are within a few kwh!). By the way, power has been pretty good the last week or so (knock on wood).
Today we finished up learning about Moses and we made a book about all we learned. I made a quick cover page and then wrote at the top of each of 12 pages a different part of Moses' life and then the kids drew on them and then signed the last page of the book, it looks really cute, I can't wait to read them the finished product tomorrow!
We also instituted game night tonight, shout out to my mom who always played games with me, it helps you learn so much! The littlest ones played Candy Land, the middle ones played Memory/Matching, and then we played Alphabet Bingo with the biggest kids, it went quite well for doing this for the first time. Hopefully it can become a Saturday night ritual since Friday night is movie night (when the power is on!).
I led devotions tonight on Romans 14. I've been reading Romans, one chapter a night and tonight I'll finish the book. I really enjoyed Romans 14 because it discusses strong and weak characters. In verse 13 it reads, "Therefore let us stop passing judgement on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother's way." And then in verse 17 it says, "For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.". Go ahead and pick the old Bible up, its got plenty of wisdom in it!
Last week we learned about Creation. On the 5th day God created the birds of the air and the fish of the sea. I've been collecting toilet paper rolls, to not only save them from the trash, but also to do something creative with them. Well, Auntie Jo and I looked up some creative ideas on Pinterest and boom, we made some octopuses with the kids and hung them on the chalk board.
I've also been working with the two oldest kids to learn how to tell time...we're almost there in one week!! I'm so excited to be able to teach them something practical. Ironically enough I've been told that Ugandans use a different time table (hence their lack of timeliness probably); they use only 12 hours, sun up to sun down, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. For instance, they'll say they are coming by at 2, which means 9 a.m., because it is 2 hours after sun up...oy vay, someone else is going to have to work on that with them!
Friday, October 5, 2012
Prayers and Punishment
Today is Teacher Appreciation Day, meaning the teachers have the day off, which means the kids have the day off. Auntie Esther wonders why Teacher Appreciation Day couldn't be held on Saturday...haha!!
I used the opportunity of having all the kids at home to snap some new photos, so enjoy! And as promised I added some photos of food/cooking that I explained the other day!
This week I am teaching the children the 10 Commandments and other Moses stories, we've got about 7 of them definitely memorized, I'm shocked and amazed at what they can remember! Today as we were working on the Commandments I told the kids that if they were well behaved then we would watch a Veggie Tales movie about Moses, too bad the power went out, maybe this afternoon power will return!
The other day when the power went out the children closed their eyes and folded their hands and asked God for the return of power to finish watching their movie, within 30 seconds it was back on. Today, however their prayers went unanswered, at least I was able to teach them about patience and that God doesn't always answer our prayers when we want Him to, or even the way we want Him to.
Several of you have sent me emails or FB messages asking what prayers are needed:
Mama Sara, the Director for Rafiki, and her baby Abby, and another missionary, Kailey left for the States today, please pray for traveling mercies for them as they return to America, and that Mama Sara's speaking engaagements and fundraising opportunities are fruitful.
The ministry is looking at purchasing land within the next several years and have visions of a much larger orphanage that includes a school, a church, a vocational school and housing and dining and living for 100 children. That's a big vision, I ask that you pray for direction and discernment for Sara and Joseph as they look at land and begin fundraising for its purchase.
I'll ask for continued prayers for me, the other missionaries and the staff as we raise these children up to be follower's of Christ, to help them grow in wisdom and intelligence, and to help keep them healthy and growing. Sometimes its so hard being patient after you've told them 5 times already to sit down and keep quiet so you can continue reading the story. This morning Emma was crying because Carol pinched him, so I pinched her, not hard, but enough so that I could tell her, you don't like it and neither would he, and that two weeks ago our Bible verse was about 'Do unto others...'. She sulked for 10 minutes, and as she cried and I told her she was fine, I thought about the Bible's teaching, do not repay evil for evil, or an eye for an eye; did I discipline her incorrectly?! I also revealed to my parents, who never spanked me, that I spank the children. If they don't know who is in charge than they, well, act like kids and go crazy. It breaks my heart every time I have to do it, but they've already been sent to their beds for a time out and still act out, am I wrong? And then I think of 'spare the rod, spoil the child'. I'm doing things the Ugandan way and that means a spanking when its well deserved, of course I hug and kiss them many times everyday and tell them how much I love them and how much Jesus loves them, and that is the loving way!
I used the opportunity of having all the kids at home to snap some new photos, so enjoy! And as promised I added some photos of food/cooking that I explained the other day!
This week I am teaching the children the 10 Commandments and other Moses stories, we've got about 7 of them definitely memorized, I'm shocked and amazed at what they can remember! Today as we were working on the Commandments I told the kids that if they were well behaved then we would watch a Veggie Tales movie about Moses, too bad the power went out, maybe this afternoon power will return!
The other day when the power went out the children closed their eyes and folded their hands and asked God for the return of power to finish watching their movie, within 30 seconds it was back on. Today, however their prayers went unanswered, at least I was able to teach them about patience and that God doesn't always answer our prayers when we want Him to, or even the way we want Him to.
Several of you have sent me emails or FB messages asking what prayers are needed:
Mama Sara, the Director for Rafiki, and her baby Abby, and another missionary, Kailey left for the States today, please pray for traveling mercies for them as they return to America, and that Mama Sara's speaking engaagements and fundraising opportunities are fruitful.
The ministry is looking at purchasing land within the next several years and have visions of a much larger orphanage that includes a school, a church, a vocational school and housing and dining and living for 100 children. That's a big vision, I ask that you pray for direction and discernment for Sara and Joseph as they look at land and begin fundraising for its purchase.
I'll ask for continued prayers for me, the other missionaries and the staff as we raise these children up to be follower's of Christ, to help them grow in wisdom and intelligence, and to help keep them healthy and growing. Sometimes its so hard being patient after you've told them 5 times already to sit down and keep quiet so you can continue reading the story. This morning Emma was crying because Carol pinched him, so I pinched her, not hard, but enough so that I could tell her, you don't like it and neither would he, and that two weeks ago our Bible verse was about 'Do unto others...'. She sulked for 10 minutes, and as she cried and I told her she was fine, I thought about the Bible's teaching, do not repay evil for evil, or an eye for an eye; did I discipline her incorrectly?! I also revealed to my parents, who never spanked me, that I spank the children. If they don't know who is in charge than they, well, act like kids and go crazy. It breaks my heart every time I have to do it, but they've already been sent to their beds for a time out and still act out, am I wrong? And then I think of 'spare the rod, spoil the child'. I'm doing things the Ugandan way and that means a spanking when its well deserved, of course I hug and kiss them many times everyday and tell them how much I love them and how much Jesus loves them, and that is the loving way!
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